Postures and kicks with weight on one leg can be challenging for both balance and proper alignment. Remember that when something moves upward, there is also a downward rooting.
Weight is over the middle of the foot, with the knee soft and the tail bone pointed downwards. Think of aligning the joints – ankle, knee, hip, and shoulder. Ground with the yin/supporting leg and yin/lower hand. Connect to Earth – rooting is essential to rising. Be aware of moving from the center; feeling the cross-body activation. Seeking to sink and rise at the same time. This connects us to both earth and heaven energies, working with our taiji pole.
For example, when doing Golden Rooster, the mind may focus more on the knee and arm that rise, but equal attention needs to be paid to the supporting leg, the position of the pelvis and the Yin arm and hand that help to balance and ground the movement.
Move like a tree – rooted, yet rising; strong, yet flexible.
– Linda Ebeling