In most Tai Chi systems, the Commencement Form (sometimes called Opening Form, Beginning Posture, or in some traditions Awakening the Qi) is much more than “just starting the form.”

It’s a reset for the body and mind that sets the tone for everything that follows. 

• Physically: Aligns posture, centers weight, and switches from normal standing to Tai Chi structure.

• Energetically: Sinks Qi into the Dantian, connects to the ground, and begins the upward–downward circulation.

• Mentally: Drops daily tension and places awareness in the present moment.

Parting the Horse’s Mane teaches how to move from the Ground through the Dantian, letting the arms be led by the body rather than moving independently.

It trains the separation of Yin and Yang — one hand rising and projecting, the other sinking and rooting.

• Physically: Develops balance, weight transfer, and whole-body connection while keeping Song in the joints

• Energetically: Channels Qi from the feet to the palms, creating both expression and reception at the same time.

• Martially: It can uproot, deflect, or enter while maintaining stability and root.

Cloud Hands trains continuous waist-driven movement, with the arms following in soft, circular paths.

It develops lateral stepping while keeping root, balance, and connection between upper and lower body.

The movement constantly alternates Yin and Yang in the hands, maintaining openness in Lao Gong.

• Physically: Builds coordination, fluidity, and the ability to redirect force without breaks or stiffness

• Energetically: Circulates Qi side-to-side like rolling waves, with the Dantian as the driver.