Slowly roll up the left foot while sinking the weight, pound by pound, into the right foot. 
Smoothly and gradually step the left foot out to shoulder width and touch the toe down. You should barely feel the moment of contact. As you step the palms of the hands slowly rotate to face the behind you. Pound by pound, you balance the weight between the feet. Relax and sink with the tailbone. When you work the breath with this tai chi movement it should be a slow, smooth, complete inhale as you shift the weight and lift the foot and a relaxed exhale, not forcing the air at all, as you step down and balance the weight. After this movement release the breath into an uncontrived rhythm but use it in this first Yang Style tai chi movement to set the pace of the form.
Next Yang Style Tai Chi movement: Raise Arms
Yang Style Tai Chi – Philosophy:
Open Taijiquan: Symbolizes the three powers of humanity, earth and the heavens or universe.
Alternate Translations:
- Opening Posture of Taijiquan (Taijiquan Qi Shi)
- Commencing (Qishi) [Liang & Wu 1996]
- Starting Posture [Zhang Fuxing 1996; Chong 1981]
- The Beginning (Qi Ji) [Foen Tjoeng Lie 1988; Metzger & Zhou 1996]
- Starting Form [Zhao 2006]
- Standing Quietly, Raise and Lower Hands
This information is meant for reference and to give an idea of the details involved in all Yang Style Tai Chi movements. In order to receive the benefits of an internal arts practice it is vital that you seek qualified instruction.
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