The process is a deep and intricate practice involving various aspects.

Here are some key methods used by Tai Chi experts to cultivate their internal energy:

1. Breathwork: Proper breathing plays a crucial role in cultivating and directing Qi. Tai Chi practitioners focus on slow, deep diaphragmatic breathing, allowing for increased oxygen intake, relaxation, and the ability to guide Qi throughout the body during movements.
2. Mindfulness and Intention: Conscious awareness and focused intention are vital for cultivating Qi. The Energy Tai Chi practitioners train themselves to be fully present in each movement, visualising the energy flow within their bodies. They direct their attention to specific areas where they want to accumulate or circulate Qi.
3. Relaxation and Softness: Being relaxed is essential for the smooth flow of Qi. Tension restricts energy circulation, so Tai Chi practitioners strive to relax the physical body and the mind. By consciously releasing tension and adopting a soft, supple approach to movement, they create optimal conditions for cultivating Qi.
4. Posture Alignment: Proper alignment of the body aligns with efficient energy flow. Tai Chi experts pay attention to correct posture alignment, ensuring joints are open and relaxed while maintaining a rooted connection with the ground. This alignment facilitates the smooth flow of Qi through the meridians.
5. Slow Movement Practice: As mentioned earlier, practising slow movements allows practitioners to connect deeply with their body’s energy systems. The deliberate pace helps to enhance sensitivity, awareness, and control over internal energy dynamics.
6. Meditation and Visualization: Energy Tai Chi practitioners incorporate meditation techniques into their practice for more profound cultivation of Qi. They may engage in seated or standing meditation exercises focusing on breath awareness or visualisations to guide and harmonise internal energy.

It’s important to note that cultivating Qi is a gradual process that requires consistent practice over time under the guidance of an experienced instructor. The exact methods and approaches may vary depending on the specific Tai Chi style or lineage.

In Energy Tai Chi Chuan, Qi cultivation involves static and dynamic practices.

These practices enhance energy flow, develop internal strength, and deepen the practitioner’s connection with their Qi. 

Here’s a closer look at these aspects:

Static Qi Cultivation:

1. Zhan Zhuang (Standing Stake): This is a fundamental static practice where practitioners stand in various postures for an extended period. The goal is to develop relaxation, rootedness, and internal awareness while maintaining proper alignment. By holding these postures, practitioners gradually accumulate and circulate Qi throughout their bodies.
2. Wuji Meditation: Wuji refers to a state of emptiness or non-differentiation. In this practice, practitioners assume a relaxed standing position while focusing on breath awareness and stilling the mind. This cultivates a state of deep calmness and inner stability, facilitating the free flow of Qi within the body.
3. Dan Tian Breathing: The lower abdomen area, known as the dan tian, is considered an essential reservoir of Qi in traditional Chinese philosophy. Through specific breathing techniques, practitioners direct their attention to the dan tian while inhaling and exhaling deeply. This helps to gather and store Qi in this central energy centre.

Dynamic Qi Cultivation:

1. Energy Tai Chi Form Practice: The practice of flowing movements in Energy Tai Chi Chuan forms is a dynamic method for cultivating Qi. Each movement is executed with mindful intention, coordinating breath with movement and promoting smooth energy circulation throughout the body.
2. Silk Reeling Exercises involve continuous spiralling motions that refine coordination between different body parts while encouraging energetic connections along fascial lines. Silk reeling exercises help cultivate elasticity, flexibility, and harmonious energy flow.

3. Tai Chi Push Hands: As mentioned earlier, push hands involve partner work where practitioners engage in controlled yet dynamic movements while maintaining sensitivity to their and their partner’s energy. This practice helps develop the ability to effectively yield, redirect, and issue energy.

1. Fa Jin (Explosive Power): Fa Jin is the skill of releasing explosive power through proper alignment, relaxation, and coordinated movements. It involves generating and directing Qi in a focused manner to transmit force in martial applications effectively.

Combining static and dynamic practices allows practitioners to approach Qi cultivation from different angles, fostering a comprehensive understanding and experience of internal energy. These practices promote physical health, mental clarity, emotional balance, and spiritual growth.