Sifu and dear brothers and sisters,
I seem to be unable to gain clarity when it comes to the relationship between the 13 points (and consequently the 5 qualities of unification) and the 4 stages of relaxation.
For example, when it comes to the 13 points, I sometimes work on getting the 13 points specifically and recognize the feel when I have the 13 points (as precisely as I can), Then rather than trying to get the 13 points, I try to maintain this feel, through movement. I usually try to be aware to make sure the 5 qualities of unification are present (to whatever degree depending on the movement) and also at times that the 13 points are still consistent. My first question is:
I find that the 5 qualities of unification are always present, as long as the 13 points are maintained, albeit to varying degrees depending on the movement, Is this correct?
Secondly, this feel (of maintaining the 13 points such that the 5 qualities can manifest) is closer to the fourth stage of relaxation (or perhaps the third maybe, can't quite tell) from what I can tell...
So how does one access the feel of the first stages of relaxation?
For example, with looseness, I'm guessing since out skeletons are held together by ligaments, looseness is unified, but what are the basic conditions that I need to allow to be maintained so that I know I'm not getting in the way of this and my looseness is actually allowed to express itself as being unified? Are there any points from the 13 that are more relevant to this stage? Any qualities from tne 5 qualities of unification that may manifest in this stage of relaxation?
How about soft and elastic stages? Are there any points from the 13 points that are more relevant to these stages? Any qualities from tne 5 qualities of unification that may manifest in more these stages of relaxation?
Sorry about the many questions, but I can't seem to gain any real clarity here...
Thank you :-)
Peace and harmony,
Joey