Starfarm Tai Chi Search Center Way

Tai Chi Search Center Way Center is described as the head connected through the spine, Tan Tien, to the feet. The Tan Tien is located below the navel and back toward the spine. All movement is initiated fron this center.
Dr Uhlmann’s metaphor is the Brace and Bit: “the top of the brace is similar to my head, the handle is my waist, while the bit is analagous to my feet The tool must be centred while the handle turns for the bit to bite into the wood.” The ability to “root” one’s self develops from the ability to center one’s self. Just as the bit drives down into the wood, the feet seem to grow roots.
Another analogy from Dr. Uhlmann is scissors: the cutting power is greatest at the central axis.
Master Wang also relates weight distribution to center. The classical teaching of T’ai Chi puts weight in the feet at 70/30. Master Wang has demonstrated more effective weight distribution at 50/50 and 100/0. In Form practice, the center turns or moves first, extremities of hand and foot follow. Weight shifting occurs as the extremities follow the center. Weight forward is never more than 50/50. Turn first, then shift weight...all movement originates from the center.