Perhaps the word unification of the internal and external is more appropriate in this particular instruction. A beginner struggling with the coordination of the trunk, lower and upper limbs and eyes will find it easy to put this instruction on the back burner.

To engage the spirit is a prerequisite in the practice of Taijiquan, so we are advised: "the spirit is the commander and the body its subordinate". Then one's movements will be natural and agile. The opening and closing, solidness and emptiness (Yin & Yang) is an essential part of Taiji practice but the experience is difficult to realise.

This reference implies (number 8) that not only the limbs and body experience opening and closing but also the mind/heart (spirit). This instruction may suffer from translation as it is not apparent what advantage there would be to closing the mind. The simplicity of Òwhen you can make the inside and outside become one, then you become completeÓ, has an altruistic appeal.

Perhaps again the ten instructions should be reviewed as a whole. The Taijiquan adage, cotton wool on the outside, steel on the inside (and vice-versa), is a clue to unify the internal and the external.

It's certain that this unity could not take place without the raising of the spirit (mind/heart). When practising forms our outward appearance should be relaxed and comfortable, internally the heart/mind (spirit) should be focussed and sharp.

Richard Watson