Sinking qi to the dantian or to the feet?

 

The question of whether to sink qi to the dantian or into the feet during practice is a common one, and there is not a single definitive answer. Both concepts have their validity depending on the context and the specific focus of your practice. It is useful to understand the principles and how they relate to your overall practice.

Traditionally, the focus is on sinking qi into the dantian as the dantian serves as the centre of internal energy and is the storage place for true qi. However, it is also necessary to sink qi to the feet, particularly during movements that involve rooting and grounding. This sinking of qi into the feet is seen as a manifestation of internal energy flowing towards the lower extremities, which is important for stability and balance. Thus it is often said that qi partly returns to the dantian and partly sinks to the bottom of the feet.

The opening and closing of internal qi involves the dantian as the centre and typically follow a balanced, symmetrical, and spiralling path towards two opposite ends. The two ends can refer to various aspects of the body, such as upper and lower limbs, left and right sides, front and back, as long as they represent opposing directions.

Taking the example of the upper and lower directions, when internal energy is conveyed to the shoulders above, it should simultaneously be conveyed to the hips below. When it reaches the elbows above, it should reach the knees below, and when it reaches the hands above, it should reach the feet below. This alignment is a fundamental requirement often referred to as the "three external harmonies." This concept of harmonious energy flow and balance is crucial for the effectiveness and fluidity of movements.

The reference to sinking qi to the feet means that during the first half of a qi cycle, internal qi that has already gathered in the dantian begins to flow down the legs until it reaches the soles of the feet. This is considered the "opening" phase of internal energy circulation. When combined with the return from the extremities to the dantian, known as the "closing" phase, it constitutes a complete opening and closing cycle. This opening and closing cycle is fundamental, when it is done correctly, for smooth and unobstructed internal energy flow.

The concept to "relax downward and sink the qi deep into the Earth" represents a more advanced level of internal energy flow, suggesting the depth to which qi travels into the lower extremities. It reflects a higher state of connection between the body and the ground, where internal energy extends harmoniously both upward and downward, symbolising the profound unity of Heaven, Earth, and Human.

Observing and adapting...

In quan theory, it is said, "Meet hardness with softness" and "Clever hands reverse the critical juncture."

As long as the body posture is centred, the focus is sharp, the movement agile, and the energy flows seamlessly, you can respond to incoming force with ease. The upper body should be light like a willow, and the lower body firmly rooted like a tree. The entire body is wrapped by Taiji jin. Lead with the left and strike with the right, or lead with the right and strike with the left. Alternating and combining firmness and flexibility, between emptiness and solidity, you can lead and strike interchangeably. The saying "using four ounces to lift a thousand pounds" means you are not affected by pressure. The greater the pressure, the more it is an opportunity to seize an advantage.

In quan theory, it is said, "Retreat is also an advance; advance is also a retreat." This principle is about the victory of the Yin over the Yang and vice versa. It is the integration of firmness and softness and the advanced technique of transitioning between emptiness and solidity. The concept of Taijiquan combat principles and strategies is to correctly observe and adapt to the opponent’s movements.