The eight mother palms each develop a different method of moving and a different understanding of how baguazhang works. All the footwork and techniques are practised when one performs the mother palms. They should always be done carefully and perfectly. Never just 'go through' them for memory, as this develops bad habits.
Eagle has a special way of doing the techniques:
- 1. First eagle change: Eagle rides the wind
- 2. Second eagle change: Eagle circles to change direction
- 3. Third eagle change: Eagle tilts in the wind
- 4. Fourth eagle change: Eagle spirit grabs the rabbit
- 5. Fifth eagle change: Eagle pierces the heavens
- 6. Sixth eagle change: Eagle grabs a fish
- 7. Seventh eagle change: Eagle circles to four directions
- 8. Eighth eagle change: Eagle wheels to four directions