26. Descending Single Whip
This is the second single whip sequence in the form. Step straight ahead with your right foot, placing the right heel on the ground pointing to right side. Shift all of your weight to right foot, allowing your left heel to leave the ground. At the same time, extend your right hand toward the front at shoulder level forming a hook with five fingers at shoulder height, as you draw back and lower your body so that you almost sit on your right foot. Simultaneously, lower your left hand and extend it slightly beyond your right side as palm up. With your entire weight move to your right foot, begin to turn your body toward the left side. As you turn, take a big step to the left side to curve your left foot 45 degrees inward to the right and slightly place your left heel touching on the ground and empty of weight, relaxed. Shift the most of your weight to your left foot then to bend the left knee. Simultaneously bring your left hand forward, palm facing you.
Rotate your body to the right 45 angle. At the same time, turn your right toe 45 degrees outward, and revolve your left hand clockwise until it faces the body. Shift most of your weight to right foot and bend right knee until you are in a deep squat. Lower your left hand to the inside of your left thigh, finger pointing down toward the ankle. When the right leg is fully bent and your body continues to drop and turn your left toe proper degrees outward.
Throughout this movement, retain a slight bend in the left knee and maintain the position of your right hook hand. Also, as much as possible, keep your body perpendicular to the ground. Your right hand is kept hooked to help maintain stability.
