When we have learnt the form then we have to rebuild the practice from the inside to create the external movement. T'ai chi is an internal martial art. This means that the mind intent leads the force and this, in turn, expresses through the physical body.
The first principle of internal practice is that we should coordinate the idea, the feeling (or ch'i) and the action.
The first position is adjusted to be open with the joints drawn out. Then contemplate wu chi or practice the sleeping/waking meditation.
Close your eyes, withdraw the senses and cultivate a sleepy feeling. As this intention becomes effective remember wakefulness. When wakefulness pushes away the sleepy feeling return to cultivating the sleepy feeling. In this way equalise the two qualities and try to remain in this balanced state. When you choose to begin the form cultivate the wakefulness.
The second posture opens the back. Remember it is both upper back and lower back. Do you know how to do this?
The next posture is used to bring the ch'i up the back and down the front. Remember that until the body has been purified through practice it is unwise to take the ch'i into the head. However, as preparation for this in the future, practise with the tongue touching the roof of the mouth behind the front teeth.
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