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This document is a provisional draft written before the formal establishment of the first circle.
It defines the initial structure for collective refinement.
Upon founding, the circle will review, amend, and formally adopt or reject each section.

Standing Practice – Stage 4

Transition: Standing Under Pressure

Posture

  • Begin from the balanced stance of Stage 3.
  • Step one foot half to one stride forward.
  • Front foot points ahead, rear foot turned out slightly (10–15°).
  • Keep both feet flat on the floor.

Weight Distribution

  • Settle 70 % of the weight on the front leg, 30 % on the rear.
  • Spine remains vertical; do not lean forward.
  • Feel the load pass through hip, knee, ankle into the ground.
  • Switch sides after each round.

Alignment

  • Pelvis level, not twisted.
  • Crown and perineum aligned vertically.
  • Shoulders stay open and relaxed.

Breathing

  • Keep breath natural; do not brace.
  • Notice how breath travels differently through loaded and unloaded sides.
  • Allow exhale to release any tightening in the legs.

Eyes

  • Reintroduce open eyes after the deep internal work of Stage 3.
  • Lids slightly lowered, gaze soft and steady, not fixed on any one point.
  • Peripheral vision stays active — you sense the space around you.
  • Open eyes support balance and spatial awareness during asymmetrical loading.
  • This prepares you to maintain presence while moving through space (Stage 5).

Variations

  1. Short Bow Stance – 70/30 load, moderate distance.
  2. Long Bow Stance – 80/20, lower and wider; use only after months of adaptation.
  3. Side Stance – step to the side, shifting load left/right evenly; trains lateral stability.
  4. Micro-Shifts – within each stance, gently feel pressure flow forward/back without visible movement.

Routine

  • 30–60 minutes
  • Start with Standing parallel and end with standing parallel.
  • Document what you did and what it did to you — contribute to collective understanding.

Signs of Progress

  • Load feels springy, not heavy.
  • Breathing remains steady under effort.
  • Mind quiet even in discomfort.
  • Transitions between sides smooth and balanced.

Goal

Stability that remains calm under asymmetry — presence tested, not lost.