Holding the Ball

The tai chi resting shape: one hand at chest height, one at the belly, as if holding a beach ball. 3 breaths each way.

03 / 08Seated figure with one hand at chest height and one at the belly around a dotted circle
The dark figure shows the position; orange dotted arrows show which way to move. Front-view pictures work like a mirror: copy them as if they were your reflection.

How to do it

  1. Hold your right hand at chest height, palm down.
  2. Hold your left hand at belly height, palm up.
  3. Imagine a beach ball between your hands.
  4. Breathe slowly. Then switch hands.

How many 3 breaths each way

Gentler version

Rest your forearms on your thighs.

Who should skip this or take care

Move only in a comfortable range, and stop if anything hurts.

Read the safety check if you have a heart, bone or joint condition.

Common mistake

Tensing the arms. The ball is light; the elbows stay soft.

The chair tai chi chart

  1. 01Opening4 times
  2. 02Lifting the Sky4 times
  3. 03Holding the Ball3 breaths each way
  4. 04Cloud Hands6 slow turns
  5. 05Parting the Wild Horse's Mane3 times each side
  6. 06Brush Knee3 times each side
  7. 07Push4 times
  8. 08ClosingOnce

More for flowing tai chi

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