With Tai Chi and Qigong when we refer to sinking this does not necessarily mean sinking
low physically.

Two important aspects of sinking are:
1. Sink the mind (or spirit) and Qi (energy) to Dantian.
2. Sink the vital energy to the feet (rooting or grounding)

To sink the mind to the dantian is more than simply thinking of this area, you need to think
through it. It is possible to partially sink the Qi to the dantian without Shen (spirit) and
although this can generate large amounts of energy, without Shen to influence this energy
imbalances and inefficiencies can develop. If we think through the dantian and not simply
think of it, the Qi is nourished and activated. In Tai Chi this activation can reach a point
where Qi causes physical vibration in the dantian (by advanced practitioners of the art this
power can be directed through the body by the mind).

We often talk in class about the power (Jing) as being from the foot, directed by the waist
and expressed in the hands. However, this is not only the physical strength from the legs
but the transfer of energy from the source (dantian) to the soles of the feet. This vital
energy is then directed through the body by the mind, giving enormous power to adepts in
the practise of Taijiquan (Tai Chi Chuan). As we play Tai Chi and become more aware of
our bodies we will gradually feel this energy direction.

For home practice your stance work or standing meditation are the best methods to obtain
the feeling of grounding. It is essential however to relax when working on these aspects
otherwise tension will cause aching and block the flow of Qi. For your stance training you
can utilise any of the Tai Chi or Qigong postures. As you feel the effect of grounding and
connecting to the earth, your Tai Chi will improve and you will feel more confident and
balanced.

The root in the foot is referred to as yongquan, which is an acupoint under the foot and is
known as Kidney 1. The stronger the root the more energy will move within your Tai Chi
form. Opening the meridians to a free flow of energy requires time and patience - it should
not be forced but must occur naturally. If your posture is correct and you are relaxed, your
energy will flow from the dantian to the feet, from where it is directed to the waist (the
commander of the movement) and finally to arms and hands.
​
By relaxing, sinking the breath and directing the mind through the dantian your movements
will expand naturally without physical help.

Source: Larry Johnson, Energetic Tai Chi Chuan

​TERM DATES 2026
Term 1: 2nd February—30th March
Term 2: 27th April—22nd June
Term 3: 3rd August—26th September
Term 4: 19th October—12th December