Vol 17, Issue 3/2004
Hidden dimensions of the movement art.
The dynamic kinesphere of Taijiquan.
By Dieter Hoffmann
When learning Taijiquan or Qigong movements we generally pay attention to posture, physical coordination and energy flow. Considering the movement levels in space is an essential approach that can deepen one’s understanding for the physical sequences and the relationships between movement, development of strength and contact with external aspects. Dieter Hoffmann explains the significance of three levels: the horizontal level, which distinguishes front and back and provides space for proximity and distance; the vertical level, on which we orientate ourselves to the left and to the right and experience balance, strength and resistance; the sagittal level, on which we distinguish above and below and where we search for direction, connection and relationship beyond the bounds of the body, and for their mutual interplay.
