Re: Chi in Tai Chi: Spiral Force

Without question, the most unique and important component of Tai Chi
is spiral force, called ``chan si jing'' in Chinese, and often
referred to as ``reeling silk from a cocoon". Without the so-called
spiral force, Tai Chi would lose it's flavor and be just like any
other martial art or exercise.

I study Yang style Tai Chi, where the most important component by far
is Peng Jing, or groundpath energy. If pushed against, a person with
good Peng Jing will feel very heavy/solid even though the upper body
is loose/light. In Yang style, there is less emphasis on Fa Jing until
adequate Peng Jing is attained. Silk Reeling is usually also done at
some point, but only as an adjunct.

I agree that in Chen style, Chang Si Jing is the most important
component.

Sandy
.