03/25/2026
"Separating Empty from Full: A tai-chi-based alignment principle that helps reduce pain, whilst improving balance."
Separating Empty and Full” is an alignment principle that means
"to notice shifting the weight from one leg to the next".
Stacking the hip above the knee
above the center of the foot
allows the practitioner to feel alignment through one side of the body.
This is often called “posting.”
When it feels like a straight pole extends through the shoulder, hip and ankle into the earth, and when to an observer these are in alignment -
the practitioner is “posting,” and that side is full.
The leg without the weight is "empty" (although it is customary to spread one's attention gently through that leg into foot and into the ground).
When "posting" during mindful walking or stationary standing,
The stillness causes the practitioner’s sensitivity to increase,
making it possible to notice
alignments and misalignments,
and to adjust posture accordingly,
leading to relaxation, and optimally toning the tissues.
This allows the body's structure to support itself more cleanly, and optimizes circulation - reducing pain whilst improving comfort.
The benefits don't stop there . . . a few minutes or practice throughout the day improves postural awareness, helping the body remain in alignment before tension or pain have a chance to step in."
While reading about these concepts are helpful, there are many nuances that may not be obvious from reading or self-study alone.
e.g. the hips must be square forward, and the low back pushed out (made straight) for the benefits of this movement to be received.
If you want to optimize your posture, comfort, balance, quality and/or length of life, it can be beneficial to work with a practitioner well-versed in this ergonomic wisdom."
In our Gorge-based clinic, we bring over 14 years of education, teaching, and experience to help patients feel more aligned within their body, mind, and heart.
Some of the ways we impart this practical wisdom is through massage & movement therapy, and health-habit (solidification) coaching.
To to learn more, visit our website at https://wushingwellness.com, or call (503) 243 1291.
