Improvising With The Great Flow of Qi: Innovative Applications of Tai Ji Quan To Contemporary Performer Training

Abstract

Tai Ji Quan (TJQ) is generally viewed as an effective means of achieving the spiritual unity of the body. This article aims to discuss how TJQ as a mindfulness-based practice can be innovatively applied to contemporary performer training, especially in the form of improvisation. This unique way of movement training is based on the motion principle of TJQ: consciousness guiding the qi, the qi guiding the body, then the body forming the shape. Practitioners are expected to improvise with being aware of qi, and are therefore able to stimulate spontaneity in improvisation, and to achieve the moment of integration of the body and mind: doing and being.