What is Wu Ji Posture?

In Tai Chi and Qigong, proper body alignment is called the Wu Ji Posture, where “wu” means none and “ji” means extreme. Hence this is a way of standing or sitting that has no extremes. It is sometimes called the “emptiness” posture. It is commonly used for beginning and ending movements, and it can also be used alone, as a standing meditation. Proper body alignment provides the ways and means for smooth energetic flow.

Here are the steps to achieving the Wu Ji Posture:

1. Stand with your feet approximately shoulder-width apart.

2. Allow your knees to relax; do not lock them.

3. Roll the tip of the sacrum under as if sitting down. This subtle movement lengthens the spine and opens the Gate of Life point (Ming Men, located on the spine opposite the navel).

4. Drop the shoulders and allow them to spread, like wings, widening the back.

5. Tuck in the chin, and imagine the top of your head (the Crown Point) being pulled upward.

6. Feel your weight pressing down evenly, all the way through to the balls of your feet and heels.

7. Breathe slowly, smoothly, evenly, and deeply, inhaling and exhaling like a balloon through your lower abdominal region.

8. Empty your mind.

As mind, breath, and body become calm and centered through these three regulations, notice yourself becoming more alert. This is the flow of Qi.

Below is a short video how to find your Wu Ji posture.