by Mark Cohen
Author of Inside Zhan Zhuang (2013).
The Nuts and Bolts of Standing Meditation.
Part 1 continues with the basic alignments and body mechanics, opening the midriff to stretch the spine, finding your center from the back, feeling the five points, the low Dan Tien and Mingmen, explanation of the Kua, the biggest "joint" in the body, connecting the lines of gravity - front, back outside and inside.
Part 2 summarizes, reviews and continues with the basic components of the Wuji posture, position of the legs, unlocking the knees, using gravity to release blockages, explanation of SUNG, the body's ideal state. Surrendering to gravity - dropping the weight below the feet, the two types of muscles - mobilizers and stabilizers.
Part 3 concludes with the breath - half-moon and whole-body breathing, the chi breathing point, the Psoas muscles and the hanging basket - suspending the pelvis, closing technique for ending each practice session, how to apply what you've learned and what to expect as you explore the Wuji standing meditation practice.
