Michael asks:

Please explain the differences between Right Hand Square Form and Right Hand Round Form mentioned in the interview with Mrs. and Mr. Chow.

Stephanie answers:

Hi Michael,

Thrilled that you listened to the interview with my teachers, Mr. and Mrs. Chow. (Access the audio and transcripts by clicking on upper tab: ASK STEPHANIE and then click on drop-down menu to Stephanie's Tai Chi History).

On Tai Chi for Enlightener's 15 Lesson DVD II, I'm teaching Right Hand Square Form. Each movement is separate as we train our body to move in a small circle. It's isometric and helps stregthen muscles, builds bone density, teaches the student where and how the weight shifts in each movement and allows the center of gravity to sink.

The Square Form also quiets the mind as it focuses on every step. The heart rate slows down as the breath naturally deepens. I always remind my students "you can't run nor leap before you know how to crawl and walk".

After one learns and understands tai chi's foundation which is the Square Form the student is then ready to comprehend, have the balance and focus as they integrate the distinct square steps with the subtly of the Round Form. On DVD I you can see me demonstrating  Right Hand Round. The round version smoothes out the pauses between the steps and creates a gliding, flow of movements without wasting energy.  

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