Just ran across a new-to-me taiji blog called Yang Family Taiji Musings [via Formosa Neijia].  Lots of good stuff on the blog and I’ve really enjoyed reading the author’s comments on training and philosophy. A lot of emphasis is placed upon the mental aspects of taiji and the development of martial mind and intention. This is great stuff and definitely worth a perusal!

A lot of what the author notes reminds me of an email I received a while back from a taiji buddy of mine. It basically outlined the 4 levels of taiji training as follows:

1. Jin: Precision of movement
2. Qi: Awareness and circulation of energy
3. Shen: Spirit/mind intent
4. Xiu: spiritual/esoteric