Forms

T'ai Chi is cultivated through practice of Forms, also known as Kata in Japanese. There are several Forms in the Chen family system. Each Form teaches basic moves, or Postures, which are linked together by transition movements. Each Posture has a name which helps in learning the mechanics of the move, but also helps explain the energy being created or used in the move as well - such as White Crane Flashes Its Wings, or Part the Wild Horse's Mane.

When learning a new form, don't think about having all the material as soon as possible, but use each Posture as a tool to help you learn more about how you move and work with energy. In general, the Western mind is taught to think that more is better, when what we need is a good understanding of what we are doing with what we have. There are many applications in any Form - self-awareness, awareness of others and Martial application. Learning and understanding the Posture in each Form will help you improve mentally and physically and will develop awareness of your energy and how to apply it.