When we practice, our main goal is to move Qi. When Qi moves, the body flourishes. But if you try to force it...

The character of water is that it goes where there is no resistance. If you don’t create resistance for it, it will flow quickly.

What is QiDu (Magnanimity)? Have you ever noticed how some people seem to handle life’s challenges with grace and calm,

Qigong translates as energy combined with skill. Our effort is focused on moving energy within the body. In the Chinese language, energy and oxygen are the same word. The Chinese symbol shows fire at the bottom burning something that is empty. Qi is thought to be the basis for all the energy in the universe. This energy has no shape and cannot be seen or touched. However, the force is very real and with practice it can grow and become stronger.

As a student of Taijiquan, you are probably familiar with the Ten Essences, or guiding principles, of this martial art. You may be less familiar with Taijiquan's five levels of attainment, or skill levels. You cannot successfully practice the Ten Essences without knowledge of the five skill levels, or without understanding the level that you have reached. Knowing what the skill levels are helps to guide your training. Below, I describe the five levels with the hope that you w