When trying to explain the mechanics of Tai Chi can be challenging when you're unfamiliar with the Qi paradigm. We talk about energy releasing (fajin) in association with breathing, relaxation and intent, but what does it mean from the point of view of the Western biomechanical paradigm?
We came across this YouTube short from Professor Hannah Fry recently where she talks about using the breath to open jars. Whilst she isn't thinking about Tai Chi, Qi or even general martial arts theory, she is talking about the connection that the arms have to muscles located in the back and sides of our torsos and how the breath interacts with them. An awareness of these interactions makes it easier to feel them and in feeling, to harness them. If you find it difficult to make sense of some of these concepts, take a look below and see if she can give you a lightbulb moment!
