The main goal of Tai Chi Chuan training for most people is to achieve a consistent level of tranquility and to balance once mind and body. This tranquility and balance can be found on three levels both in daily life and Tai Ci Chuan practice. Level 1 is in stillness: sleep and meditation. Level 2 is in movement: work at home or office and practicing forms. Level 3 is in interaction: interpersonal communication and pushing hands or self-defense.
To achieve tranquility, don’t skip Ma Bu in your training routine. Ma Bu is the “secret”. I cannot emphasize this enough. I learned this the hard way. You will only make progress in your Tai Chi Chuan training and, more importantly, outside of your training, if Ma Bu is a central part of your training. Ma Bu is also called Zhang Zhuang (standing meditation) or Zhang Zhong (standing pose).
By training Ma Bu you will be able to relax better. Learn how to put all your weight onto your feet. If your body structure is not aligned then there will be a lot of stress in your body and you won’t be able to relax. Be aware of your body alignment during Ma Bu. In the beginning, you will need to make large adjustments. Over time the adjustments will become smaller and smaller.
Move from a place of calmness (Yin/Yang). You need to be rooted" first before you move. Ma Bu training will help you find a sense of having roots (“rooting”).
To illustrate this better see the six figures below from the skill knowledge page of Brisbane Chen Tai Chi. This is an excellent resource with amazing infographics.
