Tai chi form begins as a robotic sequence of movements and gradually transcends its original form. Movements become increasingly subtle and internally convoluted, and their power increases.
Instead of being limited by form, the practitioner merges with it to become formless.

This journey does not happen by itself.
Beginners spend ages locked in patterns of tension and external movement, never realising that the form can and should progress.

How does form move from basic to advanced? Neigong.

Lessons are taught in a small group involving individual, partner and group practice. Students are all at different stages of learning the palm changes. Each person receives tutoring and correction appropriate to their level of practice. Partnering helps me to see how a palm change can be used and where to focus attention.

 I think that it is good that the student who wishes to learn bagua with our school is asked to show competency for the first palm change. This is on top of their tai chi training. The palm changes are hard and you have to be serious to learn them. It isn't like just learning another new, fancy form.

 (Rachel Waller)

I enjoy learning bagua. It is much more spatially challenging than tai chi. I think learning it concurrently with the tai chi is helpful because it encourages you to see things more martially.
 
 (Rachel Waller)

A martial artist gains significant strategic advantage by remaining invisible.
When assailants do not know that you possess combat skills, they are not concerned by you.
They are apt to be over-confident.

Traditionally, the martial artist was trained to be modest and bland.

There are three rules in partner work:

1. Stay calm
2. Do not rush
3. Do not use tension

If you ignore these, your kung fu simply will not work. Try as you might, nothing will be successful.
Internal kung fu only works if you follow these basic guidelines without deviation.