Lion Embraces the Ball ~ Bagua ~ Push Hands

Sun Lu-t'ang performing "Lion Embraces the Ball."

All forms of Baguazhang utilize circle walking prevalently as an integral part of training. Practitioners walk around the edge of the circle in various low stances, facing the center, and periodically change direction as they execute forms. For a beginner the circle is six to twelve feet in diameter. Students first learn flexibility and proper body alignment through the basic exercises, then move on to more complex forms and internal power mechanics. Although the internal aspects of Baguazhang are similar to those of Xingyiquan and Taijiquan, they are distinct in nature. 

Baguazhang is one of three main Chinese martial arts of the Wudang, the other two are Taijiquan [T'ai Chi Ch'uan] and Xingyiquan.  An internal practice, Bagua zhang means 'eight trigram palm' referring to the I Ching.  Bagua is based on Yin and Yang, the I Ching and the Bagua diagram -- circle walking or 'turning the circle.'   From: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baguazhang  

Bagua Eight Palms

Turning Your Mind into an Ally ~ Sakyong Mipham

Wu Qin Xi