Lian means to continuously connect or link so that one can follow opponent's change without being felt and the opponent can never escape. This requires moving in arcs and circles with no resistance and no disconnection waiting for an opportunity or opening.

Sui is yielding but not weak. When pushed follow the force in to let the attacker feel like they can almost get you. Do not resist and do not let go. This is called "leading into emptiness." At that point change smoothly to Zhan or Lian to gain control.

There are four basic skills used in tuishou and fighting. They are:
1. Zhan
2. Nian
3. Lian
4. Sui

These four skills are the foundation of Tuishou and Da Lu
Like all taiji skills they are rarely pure and are usually combined.
Of these four Zhan is the best indication of tuishou ability.

Taiji is about balanced change. I f one is attacked on the right side then move your Shen to the left side to maintain balanced force. Never have your mind focused on the part under attack. This leads to a sluggish response. Shen leads Yi leads Qi. That is the neijia way.

Taiji principles depend on the concept of yin and yang. Notice it is "yin *and* yang." There is no pure yin or pure yang. One does not exist without the other. In practice, Xu(insubstantial) and Shi(substantial) are better terms. Avoid full Xu and full Shi.

Following is the first skill to learn in taiji. Without following there is no taiji. Following entails creating a virtual ball shape using the 5 major bows(2 leg, 2 arm and spine bow) from root to fingertips. We must touch our opponent lightly and never disconnect or resist.