Monkey Retreats

This is the fifth Tai Chi form in the Big 8 Move Set. It is shown below the way a beginner should practice it. As you progress in our system the way you perform the set will change based on which internal skills your are practicing.


1. Start from the ending posture of Strum the Lute.

2.  The right arm drops down.

3. And swings backwards.

4. The right arm begins to rise up as it continues to swing backwards.

5. All the weight is on the back (right) foot. The left heal rises.

6. The left foot rises off the ground as the left hand begins to fall.

7. The left hand drops down past the knee as the right hand begins to move forwards.

8. The left hand continues to swing back as the right elbow comes forward.

9. Step back with the left leg.

10. The right hand comes forward as if throwing a baseball as the left hand and leg continue their backwards movement.

11. Place the left leg on the ground.

12. Shift your weight backwards as the right hand falls and the left hand rises.

13. Continue to shift to the left (back ) foot as the hands move.

14. Your left hand should now be back with the palm up. The right hand is forward with the palm out and slightly down. All your weight is on the back foot. The front heal is up with the toe lightly touching the ground.

15. Repeat steps 5 – 13 on the other side. Right hand drops. Left hand move forward to the ear. Right leg rises.

16. Right hand drops down past the knee as you point your left elbow forward.

17. Right hand swings backwards as you step back with the right foot.

18. Left hand comes forward as if throwing a ball as you shift your weight back

19. End in the same position as #14 except on the other side.

You have now done Monkey Retreats twice. Once on each side. Repeat steps 3 – 19 for a total of 4 repetitions of Monkey Retreats.

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