Horse stance, or "ma bu" is a stance common to virtually every martial art, qigong and standing meditation practice. Let's explore 5 ways to optimize this stance so that you can get the most out of whatever art you practice.
1) This stance mimics sitting on a horse. So make sure to feel as if you are really sitting. If you "sit" into this stance while executing a punch or strike, you will remain grounded. If you "sit into this stance while doing energy work, you will be able to ground negative energy and stabilize your mood and endurance levels.
2) Sit straight. Just like any dressage artist or other horseback rider will tell you, you need to have good posture while sitting on a horse. Whether you are sitting on a horse or standing in horse stance, you need to tuck your pelvis, loosen your hips, straighten your back, lightly traction your neck and keep your ears in line with your shoulders. This will also ensure that your organs and vertebrae are in proper alignment. Doing so will benefit your health and unblock flow of qi (life force energy).
3) If your upper body is in straight posture, make sure your lower body is also in good posture. Gently rolling the pelvis a little under (without a compensatory backward leaning) and keeping the knees turned a bit outward, in line with your toes, will strengthen your core (your back and abdominal muscles). It will also make you solid and secure in your footing.
4) Feel as though you were sitting on a horse. This means your inner thighs conform to its body. Feel that while you are holding your legs in this arc-like structure, there is a "form" onto which you can mold your stance. You gently push the legs inward while feeling as though a physical object (imagine it being a horse) pushes gently outward against the inside of your legs.
5) Relax. Like the chassis of an automobile sits into the shocks (springs), make sure your torso sits into your "kua" (your inguinal creases and hips). This will keep all your movement, while in the horse stance or while going into and out of this stance, very smooth and rooted.
Use these tips and you will notice a tremendous improvement in your progress, whether it be for physical martial arts technique, or for increasing and developing your internal energy.
Loretta Wollering is a recognized expert and master-level instructor in the field of tai chi chuan (taijiquan). She specializes in teaching tai chi from its ancient principles and from the traditional lineage of Master Jou Tsung Hwa. She is open-minded and accepting of all people interested in the art, no matter what their beliefs and levels of physical ability. Feel free to enjoy more information at: http://www.internalgardens.com/. You can also join beginners as well as advanced enthusiasts at America's biggest and friendliest tai chi gathering - Tai Chi Gala - headed by Ms. Wollering: http://www.taichigala.com/ YES - All are welcome here.
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