the way of wujimon

... Since that time I became a student of Master Stephen Hwa.  I always remember him saying that if I could not travel to where he is, I could study the DVD and we “could get together from time to time”.  Not only did I not have to go to him, he came and visited me.  He arranged for a place for us to meet inside as well.  I have subsequently visited him in Rochester many times over the years.  He has subsequently visited me many times over the years .. 

-- Hang in There, DVDs can provide Rigorous Training | Classical Tai Chi Blog

Since I don't have close access to formal instruction, I've relied heavily on the DVD for learning gross choreography and movement.  When applicable, I will attend a workshop with Master Chen and/or seek instruction from one of his local students, time permitting.  As I mostly train solo, the test of solitude creeps in from time to time.

No video can replace the transmission of touch from a qualified teacher!

MM,

First off, the Way of Energy by Kam Lam Chuen is a great book and one that I often recommend. In fact, it's listed as one of my "Life Changing Books". 

Regarding the "sinking down", I've asked may teachers over the years about their thoughts on the topic. At first, I just muscled my way and sank down in a deep wushu (kung fu) style horse stance. However, over time I've begun to realize that maybe the goal isn't necessarily to see how low one can go in zhan zhuang, but to try and maintain good alignment.

Regarding alignment in zhan zhuang, I will refer you to what I consider one of the best articles written on the topic. The post is from Rick of Wujifa and he wrote an EXCELLENT article on Zhan Zhuang Alignment.  In fact, I have visited Rick and felt FIRST-HAND what correct alignment feels like and TRUST ME, you don't have to be in a low stance to get it. In fact, Rick adjusted my posture while I was in a very high stance (maybe 20 degree bend in knees) and I felt the BURN in my legs and almost began shaking. This type of correction can only be experienced through the transmission of touch with a good teacher. If you don't have regular access to a good teacher, check out a Chen Xiao Wang workshop and ask for Pizza ;)

I'm reminded of a comment made by Rick of Wujifa: "You are where you are, and that's where you start."  If you feel yourself falling backwards, then don't go that low. Go to where you feel stable and aligned.

Good luck.
w.

ps. For other readers out there, feel free to chime in ;)

Grandmaster Li Enjiu’s teaching clip on July 21, 2010 - These are clips of Grandmaster Li Enjiu’s teaching to Chen Zhonghua’s students on a visit to Jinan.

I tried to "google translate" thing but that didn't make much sense. So I asked Shang if he could translate the article into english.  It's much better to have a native chinese speaker who also practices taijiquan translate a taiji article. There are a lot of subtle taiji principles and theories that may get glossed over by the average translator.

After some dialogue between Master Chen and Shang, there is now an English translation of the article for all to English readers to enjoy ;)  Click the link below to read the article:

Chen Zhonghua and his Chen Style Taijiquan Practical Method (Part 1) - Translated

Hat Tip to Shang Lee ;)

Life is too short. As the saying goes, "The worst thing you can do is nothing."