 Tai Chi Classroom Mental Concentration Once you are technically proficient, you should concentrate your attention on the application of force. In doing a "stroke" movement, for instance, you should imagine yourself passing your hands over something (e.g. a long beard), and when you do a "press" you should likewise visualize the movement in your mind. In other words, movements should be guided by mental power so as to bring your strength into fuller play and make your performance more precise. Such mentally guided exercise will also help to regulate the central nerve system and improve the functions of the internal organs. For this reason, Tai Chi is sometimes described as a kind of "physical exercise of consciousness." The following points should be remembered in comprehending and practicing Tai Chi boxing as a mentally guided exercise: (1) By mental concentration, we do not mean emotional tension or an inert mind. Rather, mental activity should vary rhythmically in intensity, in keeping with the alternation of tension and relaxation in the application of strength. (2) Mental activity, physical strength and movements are all interrelated, but their relationship is such that mental activity guides physical strength, which in turn propels the movements. In other words, the action of the mind precedes the movement of the body, so that when there is a change in movement, the exertion of strength continues; and when there is a change in the exertion of strength, mental activity remains. Any change in mental activity must find expression in the exertion of strength and in the execution of movements. Do not seek for "an absolute void in the mind," not anything purely visionary and unsubstantial, for this would reduce mental activity into something unfathomable and meaningless. |
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