The Details:
It's 69 and very humid. The dew is so thick the ground is wet. I'm going to visit Paul in Hatfield early this afternoon. It's Melinda's birthday today! I've a text thread going with Jason K. He's dealing with an injured back among other things. He said he's trying to make it to his birthday before retiring from the Gfld. Police Force. I'm happy to hear that he has set a date. That job is eating him alive;^(
The Practice:
Around 10 I started on The Deck with Echo and a full round of The 10+. This set is feeling better and better the more I do them.
Next I went out to my main practice area. It was getting too hot/humid and sunny on The Deck.
Once I got there and got settled I did a Round (left side) to Master Liang's music with him counting the beats. I was able to stay on track and grateful for the verification from the music and count. I noticed how little 'set up' time the music allows. IF you are not in constant Zhong Ding the pace will seem very fast. However if you DO maintain relaxed balance throughout the form the pace is more than doable. It reminds me of getting a song up to speed when you are learning chord changes. IF you hesitate you loose the groove. You have to have the changes happening without having to pause to form the new chord. All it takes is practice and eventually you will be able to perform the song 'at speed'. Remember Taijiquan is the fastest martial art in existence.
Next I did Changes 1-4 (both sides) of Cheng style Baguazhang 8 Mother (Animal) Form. I had a little glitch on the right side of #3 (Bear Palm) but I worked it out.
Next I did a round of Anyo Apat tuned into the correct sequence and adding snap to all the punches and kicks.
Next I did a round of Wansu Kata focused on the overall quality of Stance, Transitions, Punches and Kicks.
Next I used a heavy maple 6' Staff to do a round of Taiji Staff (both sides) I had a little glitch at the end on the right side.
I ended with Healing Qigong and returning to the house to journal today's practices.
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