The guiding principle of Taijiquan is to lead with intention (yi), which governs the movements. Without the proper intention, the form becomes weak, soft and lifeless, losing its foundational principles and cannot be considered true Taijiquan.
All internal systems emphasise internal cultivation, with the "mind intention” as the key. Every movement is initiated by intention, and the body follows accordingly, connected seamlessly, like pulling a thread or stretching a branch. It expands infinitely outward while maintaining a small circle within, “connecting the vast universe above and reaching the depth of the earth below”.
This kind of practice requires complete tranquillity of mind and detachment from external distractions. Though it may seem simple, in reality few can truly achieve it. Most people’s minds are restless, preoccupied with personal and social interactions and constraints.
Taijiquan can only be accomplished by channelling the correct intention. Only then will the body's joints, muscles, skin, fascia, ligaments, organs, breathing, and nervous system be relaxed in a coherent manner. If the intention is too heavy, the body becomes tense, tightening and locking the different systems and tissues so that they lack space and flexibility to move. On the other hand, if the intention is too light, it leads to slackness and lethargy, “soft like water but lacking its strength and tenacity; like scatterings of loose sand”.
