In order to open the joints and relax, we cannot expand in only one direction. It is necessary to expand in all directions, right must have left, up must have down, and forward must also be going backward. Most people understand the concept that balance is maintained only with counter balance. Still, T'ai Chi practitioners must not limit themselves to these six directions alone. Expansion includes every opposite diagonal in between.
Expansion is the action of moving out in all opposing directions simultaneously.
Expansion creates openness and space. More space means more emptiness to fill. The more qi you accumulate, the more full of emptiness you become. It is my hope that reading this article will help you to understand the significance of the synergy involved between empty and full. Emptiness relaxes the body, opening up energetic pathways and facilitating the circulation of qi and blood, and reduces tension and fatigue while increasing flexibility.