Taikyokuken (taichichuan)
The practice of Taikyoku-ken involves constant mental visualisation of what we are doing – a visualisation that produces concrete physical sensations. For example, if you move your hands slowly imagining that they are immersed in water, you will gradually begin to feel an actual resistance, as though they really were in water. In executing the movements of tai chi, it is essential to develop this type of sensation, for this sharpens the nervous system, allowing it to direct our actions appropriately. As time goes on, taikyoku-ken enables us to develop strength and speed through slow, harmonious movements. In addition, we develop a concrete sense of how all our movements originate in the body’s core. Consequently, the exercises feel pleasant and beneficial, helping us towards our goal of improved health and well-being
