XING YI QUAN'S 12 ANIMALS

TAI BIRD FORM: TAI XING

I'm going to be honest, I'm not sure what the Tai Bird form refers to. Some say it's a mythical bird ("Tai Bird") akin to the Phoenix. Some say it is the Chinese Phoenix. Some say it is the Chinese Ostrich.

Sun Lu Tang mentions that this creature can fly and that its wings can break through objects with power. I think it's safe to say this is one of the mythical Chinese birds. 

Either way, the Tai Bird Form is supposed to strengthen the liver and lungs, empty the chest, solidify the belly, and open the shoulders and feet.

The motions are relatively straightforward in appearance. 

• Beginning Form: From Santishi, step forward with the left foot, crossing the left foot into a T-position outwards. Bring the arms in and down towards the belly. 
• Advancing Form: Step up with the right and bring the arms to the sides of the body, hands still in a fist.
• Advancing Form: Step forward with the left into a short stance and extend both arms with the heart of the fists facing upwards.
• Changing Form: Step up to the left with the right and repeat the Advancing Form on the opposite side.

Below is an example of the Tai Bird form being practiced. This one was not as easy to find as some of the others, perhaps due to the translation issue of the name for the creature itself...