So what is so special about the Figure Eight?
Also known as Infinity sign, the figure eight has no end and no beginning. It is limitless! The two separate circles can both clear and connect, as well as trace back and forth easily. Not surprisingly, it is represented in so many areas of our life.
All energy systems have figure eight patterns. You see figure eights in the double helix of the DNA. Eights run through meridians, chakras, and the Celtic knot to name just a few. In the energy system known as the ‘Celtic Weave’, the figure eight in the knot-work is central to its “spiraling, interconnecting designs”.
Now think sports, math, science, dance, martial arts, and so forth! Figure eight patterns or movements connect within and between individual energy systems. These left and right, front and back, top and bottom connections are vital. So what is the purpose? To put it very simply: to connect and carry information.
Many dance patterns utilize the figure eight in their movements. It was/is often used by dance instructors to help people bring coordination and harmony to their bodies. Once that happens, dance becomes a whole-body experience of connection and integration. You may even see people today that rock back and forth in a figure eight pattern while they wait in a line or for a bus etc. In relationships, like most things, there is also a flow that can be graceful and balanced. However, if anything along the figure eight is disproportionate or uneven, energy and balance become stuck! Just like Qi flow through the meridians!!!!!
Let’s look more closely at the figure eight and some of the latest research from Energetic Kinesiology. Although a flow from the foot through the hip to the extension of the fingertip can exist, it is much more than two-dimensional. The center of the eight is a cross-over of information. The figure eight pattern can be considered a ribbon of energy that flows with information throughout the entire system.
Energetically, in the figure eight, “a yang pattern runs one direction with flow, while the yin travels opposite, they cross over in the middle and exchange or create liaison points for the system”. This ribbon of energy is not flat. It is full and flowing, with layers that transfer energy about the physical body, lower and upper body, mind and spirit!
Unfortunately, if this loop has a warp or a collapse in any part of it, the flow could be altered resulting in the possible loss of information. As well, a shift of flow (either Yin or Yang) can cause one flow to cross over into the other flow. To get a clearer picture of the Yin and Yang flow, check out this video at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FI3Eg5jKsaY .
So let’s consider the figure eight in Tai Chi and/or Qigong:
According to Master Jesse Tsao, PhD and author of Practical Tai Chi Training - A 9-Stage Method for Mastery, the figure eight method allows you to shift weight and change direction smoothly. Figure eight circulation keeps your Qi energy moving and flowing in an “infinite loop” which accelerates your Qi generation and cycling, especially during dynamic Tai Chi movements. It is the looping and curving that cultivates your inner energy. It also helps you avoid abrupt starts and stops whenever you shift weight. The continuous flow refreshes your Qi while it prevents Qi stagnation. Besides creating additional Qi, the figure eight method generates an increase in metabolism.
In Tai Chi and Qigong, figure eight circulation brings about a whole-body movement that links from feet to hands and spine to head. The figure-of-eight movement is often used as basic silk reeling, particularly in Chen Tai Chi. These spiral movements are curved and utilize the opening and closing of a joint in sequence. The result (depending on speed) can be flowing and ribbon-like or can be a whip-like, snapping force.
The mechanics and coordination of the figure eight movements are somewhat complex and demanding. According to “experts”, training has to be layered and regular before the mind and body can truly grasp it. You must continue to practice on a regular basis (not hit or miss), preferably with an experienced instructor.
That being said, in the next blog, we will look at some simple figure eight moves that you can try at home!
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