In Yang-22 we relax the shoulders and sink the elbows. However, we need to be aware of over-sinking the elbows and end up looking like a Southern Shaolin practitioner.

Similarly, we want to avoid under-sinking the elbows and end up with stiff, resisting arms as a result of opening the elbows too widely. This can cause us to have a propensity to resist.

To achieve the correct elbow placement we have to imagine that we are trying to clamp a hot bun between our upper arm and body. If you hold an actual hot bun you will realize that if you hold the bun too tight you will burn your fingers. Too loosely, you will drop the bun.

So the correct way to hold a hot bun is not too firmly nor too loose. If you experiment with this, you will find that your elbows will not sink too much nor flare overly open.

The end result is a principle that is known in Yang-22 as empty armpits. By emptying the armpits you will resist the tendency to resist when being pressured. You will become responsive, without having to purposely response – that is, you yield naturally.