Doc Stier wrote:Of much more relevant importance, imo, is to relax and release all muscular tightness and associated joint tension of the upper body in order to allow the elbows to be 'bottom heavy' in every posture, regardless of the structural position of the elbows.
From a tai chi perspective at least, I agree: the elbows can rise up at the moments when they are needed higher to defend or attack, but more like as if they are beng buoyed upon the swell of a wave - as soon as the wave subsides, the elbows automatically sink down again to the natural 'hanging' but still-connected position. (Yes, it's a metaphor). If they 'rise and sink on the swell' then that doesn't really increase the danger of the elbow/arm being tensed-up and of course joint locked. As soon as the elbows and shoulders get stiff (which is often reflected in an unnecessarily raised position), you're easy meat.
PS. Your shrug emoticon avoids the problem nicely: lifts shoulders while keeping elbows sunk...