Video of How to Learn Neigong
The concept of Neijin, "internal energy" in Tai Chi, is often seen as vague or overused, with varying interpretations among practitioners and scholars. Some view it as a metaphorical or symbolic way to describe the body's physical mechanics and efficiency rather than a mystical or supernatural force. Others argue that the term lacks a clear, coherent path to attainment due to the historical and cultural complexities surrounding its interpretation.
Cultural and historical context: The term Neijin has been influenced by centuries of oral tradition, secrecy, and mythological storytelling, which has led to a wide range of interpretations. This has contributed to the perception that there is no clear or consistent method for attaining "internal energy".
Internal Energy and the dexterity of the body's core are a central aspect of Classical Tai Chi. The practice emphasizes using “Neigong”, internal discipline to initiate movements from the body's core (the abdomen and back) rather than the limbs. This approach allows for the cultivation and mobilization of Neijin, “internal energy”, which is essential for health benefits and martial arts applications.
In Classical Tai Chi, the core movements are designed to transmit power from the abdomen and back through the pelvis to the legs, with the pelvis acting as an extension of the leg. For example, when taking a step, the abdomen and back lift the pelvis, which lifts the leg, while the upper body remains still. This internal movement is characterized by the sensation of stretching and intense energy flowing across the junction where the yin and yang interact, typically located in the torso.
Classical Tai Chi also involves segmented movement, where one body segment moves while keeping a nearby segment still. This principle is part of the "internal discipline" that emphasizes the interaction between the body's moving (yang) and stationary (yin) parts to achieve balance and vitality.
Classical Tai Chi’s teachings highlight the importance of integrating the arms and legs with the core, efficiently utilizing the power in the back and abdominal muscles in complex movements for martial arts or sports applications. This integration is fundamental to Classical Tai Chi, where every movement is internally driven and requires a deep understanding of the body's segments and their interactions.
Overall, the dexterity of the body core in Classical Tai Chi is a sophisticated practice that requires intense tuning and sharpening of the mind and body, leading to a total exercise package for the body and the mind.
Classical Tai Chi emphasizes using the body's core muscles and their elastic force to generate power and dexterity. According to Master Stephen Hwa, the core, including the abdomen and back, is the source of internal movement, distinct from external movements that rely on the limbs. In Classical Tai Chi, movements are initiated from the internal core of the body rather than from the external parts, and this approach cultivates and mobilizes “internal energy” for health benefits and martial arts applications.
For instance, pushing the right hand forward with the arm and shoulder is considered an external movement. In contrast, an internal movement uses the abdomen and the back to move the entire upper quarter of the body, including the arm and hand, forward. This method of movement allows for the utilization of the core's power, which is more efficient and powerful than relying solely on the limbs.
To reiterate, “internal discipline” in Classical Tai Chi involves using the core muscles to power movements, a fundamental aspect of the practice. Stephen Hwa, a second-generation disciple of the legendary Tai Chi Master Wu Chien Chuan, teaches this technique in online courses and DVDs. Internal discipline enhances the dexterity of the body's core by integrating the arms and legs with the core, allowing for the efficient use of back and abdominal muscles in complex movements.
Classical Tai Chi uses the body's core muscles and their elastic force to achieve dexterity of the core. Movements originate from the core rather than the limbs, and this is a key aspect of the internal discipline taught in this practice.