[Alexander Jones]

Could you specify which Tai Chi style and lineage you are training in and under which teacher? This information will help me better understand the context of your practice. One must know that different styles and lineages within Tai Chi may have nuanced approaches to the concept of releasing, and knowing these details will assist in addressing your question more precisely.

[Nader Mander]

Taijiquan from adam mizner and something called Yi jin jing damo mitchell did a video about it there is a principle of release bones up flesh down. I’m trying to understand because for example to hang the muscles you need to relax but it’s not that simple because how you can do it? Because I don’t know if I’m correct but I see videos of teachers saying if I try to think about relaxation it’s not gonna happen. How can I do it with the Yi intention and not the ego?

[Nader Mander]

Maybe I’m making a lot of mess with my questions but I hope you can answer.

[Alexander Jones]

Shifu Mizner’s teachings, which are based on the Huang Sheng Shyan Tai Chi system that utilizes the Five Song Gong, or the Five loosening exercises, to develop Song. To clarify, “Bones up, flesh down” is a fundamental principle in Tai Chi. It means releasing tension in your body while maintaining your structure, allowing gravity to act upon the flesh, with the flesh hanging off the bones.

It is clear that you might be overthinking this. Song, in its essence, involves a relaxed state that isn’t achieved through excessive mental effort. Instead, it’s about letting go of unnecessary tension in your body. Trying to “think” your way into relaxation can indeed be counterproductive.

I recommend focusing on the Song Gong exercises. These exercises are designed to help you develop the physical and mental attributes necessary for Song. Through consistent practice and guidance, one will gain a deeper understanding of what Song truly means.

[Nader Mander]

OK but even if you intend to release you can’t because because you’re not accusing the correct state of mind I’m I correct?

[Alexander Jones]

No, that’s incorrect. You need to invest numerous hours in rigorous physical internal training before delving into the mental aspects. It’s like building a strong foundation for a house; without it, the structure won’t stand. My advice is to focus on the physical training initially, and as your body becomes better prepared, you’ll find that the mental aspects of releasing become more accessible and effective.

[Nader Mander]

OK I know the opposite of song is tenseness so contracting the can help with releasing?

[Nader Mander]

contracting the muscles can help with song?

[Alexander Jones]

No sir, contracting the muscles is precisely the opposite.

[Nader Mander]

😐

[James Dawes]

Nader, I highly recommend exploring Adam’s “Unlocking the Secrets of Sinking Elbows and Shoulders in Tai Chi” course available on this website. It’s specifically designed to help you unlock and release tension in your shoulders and elbows. Personally, I found the exercises taught in the course to be incredibly beneficial in achieving a more profound sense of Song in these areas.

[Nader Mander]

thanks. i saw it