‘There is stillness in movement and movement in stillness’ – Yang Chen Fu

This skill can be used in ALL martial arts, adding the internal to the external.

Neigong (inner work)
In stillness, (meditation and standing postures) we learn to open our body, opening the joints, fascia, lungs and empty spaces filling them with chi energy. We attach and harmonise our mind to our energy and breath (Sanchin, Saamchin) using our attention and intention to ‘follow our breath’ we stimulate and move the energy around the body. In the standing postures we learn to use intelligent and alchemised emotion to colour the energy for different uses.

Qigong (energy work)
We learn a series of exercises that stimulate, pump, store, release and discharge chi. They teach us to soften, connect, open, close, stretch, compress, twist and release the body to maximise this energetic movement. These are the skills that underlay all martial movement.

Taolu & Yingyong (form and application)
When practising form and application we often appear to ‘pause’ at the height of a stretch or compression because chi can be sluggish at first and take time to build up before release, like in a sneeze or morning stretch, the body’s natural way of using this skill. With practice this can become a rapid movement and with discharge becomes a part of ‘fajin’ in kung fu or ‘kime’ in karate.

Often referred to as ‘sink, swallow, float and spit’.

Most martial art skills are noticing the natural functions of the mind, emotions and body and enhancing them. No mystery, just intelligence and hard work. Having a good coach and guide definitely helps.

If you would like a place on my Tai Chi Programme email me at steve@shikon.com