Never neglect any of the thirteen kinetic movements. The waist is the source of sense and perception.
Be attentive to the changes of void and solid,
and the chi goes throughout the body without stagnating,
There is movement in stillness, and stillness in movement:
And miracles will evolve during competition.
Every posture is the creation of your will,
Relax the abdomen, but put the chi in full swing,
with coccyx centered and spirit rising up.
The body should be light and agile, and the top of the head is "suspended."
Carefully study the means of opening and closing, bending and stretching;
they are done with effortlessness and freedom.
Fundamentals and guidance should be made through oral teaching,
while skill is gained through self-study and continuous practicing.
Ask what is meant by making good use of the "body," and its function,
It is the guidance of spirit-mind that is the master, and the bones and flesh are the servant.
Think what the final purpose is –
It is longevity with eternal spring.
If you don’t seek in this direction, it will be a sheer waste of effort and time.
Another Version
Never neglect any of the thirteen postures.
The source of the will is in the waist.
Pay attention to the slightest change from full to empty.
Let the chi flow through the whole body constantly.
Stillness embodies motion, motion embodies stillness.
Seek stillness in motion.
Surprising things will happen when you meet your opponent.
Give an awareness and purpose to every movement.
When done correctly all will appear effortless.
At all times pay attention to the waist.
With abdomen loose and light, the Chi can be activated.
If the coccyx is erect, the shen rests to the top of the head.
The body should be pliable.
Hold the head as if suspended from a string.
Be alert and seek meaning in the purpose of Tai-Chi Chuan.
Bent and stretched, open and closed,
Let nature take its course.
Beginners are guided by oral teaching.
Gradually one applies oneself more and more.
Skill will take care of itself.
What is the main principle of Tai Chi Chuan?
The mind is the primary actor and the body the secondary one.
What is the purpose and philosophy behind Tai Chi?
Rejuvenation and prolonging of life beyond the normal span.
So an eternal spring.
Every word of this song has enormous value and importance.
Fail to follow this song attentively, and you will waste away your time.