Wu Bu: 1. Wuji
Do and Don’t
- DO keep the shoulders down
- DON’t tense shoulders, chest and upper back
- DO turn the head strongly to the side
- DO use a strong gaze
- DO stay grounded with the weight in the middle
- DO keep the wrists straight and forearms horizontal
- DO make the correct fist
Theory
- Wuji is not just a stance, it is a philosophical concept
- It is the state of nothingness, but at the same time with every possibility
- In wuji all the energy gates of the torso align one directly above the other
- The animal energy associated with wuji is the dragon, with the serpent-like body mirrored in the posture with the feet together, the arms relaxed by the sides and the head straight
Making a Basic Fist
Preparation
- Make sure you are warmed up before attempting this movement. You can find the recommended warm ups at the start of the course.
Five Gates: Neck
- Do warm up the neck and upper back, as seen in the gallery below.
- Start by bringing gently the chin up and down, lengthening the neck without straining.
- Then turn the head side to side, keeping eyes level with the horizon. Stay soft and do not tense the neck or shoulders.