connecting the body exercises?

Tai Sabaki drills for sure!

Of course, Tai-chi is perfect for this. Many of my students have also studied (and are studying) aikido at the same time as Tai-chi. I also do a type of chi-gung called, "animal exercises" or the modern name of "zookinesis". These exercises connect mind to each joint and muscle of the body to develop "body-mind" - the ability of each part to be conscious and work in harmony with all the other muscles and joints.

A big problem is that we tend to organize our actions from our heads because we feel that "we" are our heads. Various Tai-chi practices allows us to have a decentralized vantage point of attention so it is evenly distributed throughout the body.

This is an example of a zookinesis chi-gung set:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Csea_hI_1sc

I would also suggest doing exercises while standing on a "Basu" (not sure of the spelling). It is a half sphere, like a half exercise ball. You stand on it so that your body has to organize itself at the center as you exercise. You could also try standing on two 10 inch to 12 inch beach balls (slightly deflated) and trying to keep your balance.

Any of those will work.... Just focus on the internal feel of things as you perform the movements. Focus on your breathing. Focus on your connection to the ground. Think about "sinking your ki".

"Meditate" your movements.

EDIT:

Already getting thumbs down? I guess my 15+ years of study counts for little. Oh, well.... Ignore my words if they don't help.

http://www.rmaxinternational.com/tacfit/

Try out this system for full body conditioning.

Without weights.