The framework of Tīng, Dǒng, Huà, Nà, Fā (听, 懂, 化, 拿, 发) is the internal martial artist's interaction algorithm. It is not a sequence of five distinct moves but a systematic, step-by-step process—a flowchart for combat—that dictates how we engage, interpret, neutralize, control, and ultimately issue power against an opponent's energy.

The error in most traditional instruction is treating these as abstract concepts. Here, we treat them as measurable, physical, and strategic skills that transition the work done in solo practice (like forms and Zhàn Zhuāng) into decisive application. This progression serves as the single path, or Jìn Lù (Power Line), that leads from the moment of contact to the final Fā.

The Five Steps of Interaction

The framework is often referred to as the "Five Stages of Skill Progression" or the "Five Steps of Interaction" in Taijiquan:

1. Tīng (听) – Listening: Developing sensitivity to perceive the opponent's intention and structural tension.

2. Dǒng (懂) – Understanding: Interpreting the tension to identify the opponent's Power Line (Jìn Lù).

3. Huà (化) – Transforming/Neutralizing: Redirecting or dissolving the opponent's energy along its Jìn Lù.

4. Nà (拿) – Controlling/Seizing: Capturing and controlling the opponent's structure (unbalancing them) as a result of Huà.

5. Fā (发) – Issuing/Releasing: Releasing integrated power (Fā Jìn) after Nà has secured the structural advantage.

Tūi Shǒu and the Goal of Compression

While this framework is most obviously trained in Tūi Shǒu (Pushing Hands), its true function is to provide a conceptual roadmap. We train each step separately to ensure clear understanding, but the ultimate skill in Taijiquan is to compress the entire sequence into a single, instantaneous response upon contact. The moment the opponent’s energy arrives, the whole chain—from Tīng to Fā—should collapse into a singular, fluid action.

The Foundation of Internal Arts

This framework is not unique to Taijiquan; it is the shared essence of all internal martial arts (like Xing Yi Quan and Bagua Zhang), and its principles are functionally equivalent to concepts like Aiki in Daito-Ryu. It is the physics of whole-body connection and unified intent applied to an external force.

The Prerequisite: Perfect Sōng (uniform, integrated release of tension) is the non-negotiable prerequisite for this framework to function. You cannot execute a clear Tīng (to feel) while rigid, and you cannot achieve a successful Huà (to neutralize) while physically fighting the incoming force. The body must be a zero-resistance receiver for the sequence to even begin.

The Jìn Lù: The Connecting Thread

The entire process hinges on the concept of the Jìn Lù (劲路), Power Line, or simply "the Line". This is the structural path along which the opponent’s energy flows and connects to the opponent's "center" through the Power Point (Dian). It is:

1. Detected in Tīng (Listen)

2. Identified in Dǒng (Understanding).

3. Neutralized in Huà (Transforming).

4. Exploited in Nà (Controlling).

5. Completed in Fā (Issuing).

Understanding and maintaining this line is the difference between external shoving and authentic internal skill.

We will now break down each step, translating the ancient concepts into clear, actionable mechanics.