Tai Chi ABC Lesson 3: The deeper journey

In Daoist philosophy, "presence" (有) refers to the state of existing or being tangible and noticeable, while "emptiness" (無) suggests both the absence of form and the potential for infinite possibilities. Although presence and emptiness are deeply connected, they are not considered equal. Emptiness is viewed as deeper and more valuable. Presence is where the journey begins, providing a foundation for practice, while emptiness represents the ultimate, boundless destination.

When learning Tai Chi, most people begin with physical movements. They focus on mastering forms and using muscle strength and mechanical force effectively. These visible, tangible aspects of Tai Chi fall under the realm of presence. This is the surface level of the practice, and many learners remain at this level for years, repeating the same movements. However, Tai Chi offers a much deeper journey.

After mastering the physical forms, practitioners are encouraged to gradually reduce their reliance on muscle strength and shift their focus toward the intangible. As they use less muscle energy, they experience less tension and move into a state of 'Song' (鬆)—a relaxed, effortless state. By diminishing their dependence on presence in their practice, the power of emptiness, or Qi energy, naturally begins to emerge. This is the point where form transitions into formlessness.

 From Presence to Emptiness

Let’s revisit the palm exercise: transitioning from imagining a basketball to a balloon, and then to a soap bubble. This process illustrates the gradual reduction of presence and the progressive unveiling of emptiness.

As presence fades, something invisible yet perceptible begins to emerge. This is similar to how stars become visible only after the sun sets. When the physical strength of your muscles and bones diminishes, the Qi field becomes apparent. At this stage, you begin to understand the Tai Chi concept of "now hidden, now revealed" (忽隱忽現).

This idea is not about visual effects but about sensations felt through quiet observation. When you integrate this sensation into every movement—from raising a hand to taking a step—you will discover immense joy in the practice. This sensation is the essence, the very soul of Tai Chi.

 A Simple Practice

Try this exercise to explore the interplay between presence and emptiness:

1. Stand about an arm’s length from a wall.
2. Align your body upright, relaxed, and balanced from head to toe.
3. Quiet your mind, releasing any distractions.
4. Gradually "conceal" the presence of your chest.

What do you feel?
As the "concealment" expands, what new sensations arise?

This practice is designed to help you experience the transition from presence to emptiness and the subtle relationship between them. Over time, this understanding will deepen, unlocking the profound layers of Tai Chi.