Tai Chi for Health and Fitness (Silk Reeling 8 Form)

Tai Chi for Health and Fitness (also known as Silk Reeling 8 Form) was developed by Jenny Harrison. It is a symmetrical Form with 8 different postures, designed specifically to encourage silken movements, the opening of the kua, creating gentle circles and spirals. It is for beginner students learning how to put the principles of movement and flow into practice.

This Form is relatively easy to teach (and to learn) as it faces forward, meaning it can be instructor lead until students can remember the postures. It is divided into 2 Parts so beginner students begin by learning just 4 postures. Part 1 can be repeated and practised until students are ready for challenges of Part 2.

The Form is open to a number of modifications and challenges, which are discussed in the Instructor Training workshop.

Tai Chi instructors who would like to teach this form must attend a 5hr workshop and submit a 15-minute teaching video. Please email info@risingmoontaichi.net for more information.

 PART 1

Commencement

  1. Smoothing the silk (L and R)

  2. Part wild horse’s mane (L and R)

  3. Golden rooster stands on one leg (L lifts first, then the R)

  4. Repulse monkey (L retreats first, then the R)

Part 1 can be repeated a number of times

PART 2

  1. Brush knee L ad R

  2. Cloud hands (step to L first, then the R)

  3. Roll back (L retreats first, then the R)

  4. Circles at the dantian (to L first, then the R)

Part 2 can be repeated a number of times, then the 2 parts can be combined

To close, elbows bend, palms lift, turn the palms down and press down, step in.