Posture is important and in Tai Chi, we learn that we are suspended from the crown of our head, allowing the rest of our body to fall naturally into alignment.

The first 2 Essentials of Tai Chi refer to our posture. Dianne covers how being "suspended from the crown of the head" ties into the idea that our chest does not need to be "thrust out." Focusing on our bringing our breath to the back helps "raise the back" and give us strength and relaxation.

Dianne explains the 3rd Tai Chi essential covering the importance of moving from the Dan Tian.

Knowing where your weight is at all times will help you improve your balance. You will no longer be falling forward with each step. The principle of substantial/insubstantial is critical in Tai Chi and will help you with all of your movement.

Sink the shoulders and drop the elbows. It seems like a simple thing, but it is actually much more complex and much more important than you think. Dianne helps you understand how this essential of Tai Chi will make a huge difference in the effectivenes of your movement.

Dianne leads you through the Yang style 24 short form 5 times with an emphasis on each of the first 5 essentials of Tai Chi.

Essential #6 is all about relaxation and not trying to "muscle through" the motions of Tai Chi. Learn how this corresponds with the 6 Harmonies of Tai Chi as well.

Essential #7 addresses how upper and lower follow one another. Every movement is a full body, coordinated, effective movement if you focus on this essential.

Tai Chi is "meditation in motion." As we look at Essential #8, we learn how to focus and integrate the internal with external.

When doing Tai Chi, one should be able to connect each movement, one to another. But you should also be aware of the energy flow and keeping it uninterrupted. Practice this concept with Dianne as she discusses "linked without breaks."

Tai Chi is truly "movement meditation." Dianne covers how Essential #10 - Seek stillness in motion - is a wonderful capstone for all the Essentials.