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Showing posts with label Meditative Traditions In The Chinese Martial Arts. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Meditative Traditions In The Chinese Martial Arts. Show all posts

Meditative Traditions In The Chinese Martial Arts

By Marci Glover


Sifu Jan has written three series under the title Warrior of Stillness. They cover the meditative and internal techniques that define masters of Chinese martial arts. These meditative traditions in the Chinese martial arts come from observations made over years of training under one of the most renowned masters in California. They encompass the mental and physical aspects that lead to perfection.

The reader feels an instant effect upon reading the description provided. The author has a careful combination of practical suggestions, theories and anecdotes that make the book interesting to read. It also is rich in providing a historical perspective so that readers can appreciate and understand the concepts. They make it easy to achieve depth through understanding.

A notable point of discussion is the search for Wuji. This is described as a central point in the body which acts as the pole. It is incorporated in the Taiji tradition and leads to incredible improvements. The text places the explanation in a way that makes it easier to understand compared to other writers. One can easily identify the Taiji sphere and the cylinders.

According to the author, each artist should identify with Wuji. It is the source of everything when one is thinking about meditation. The standing posture is described as the basic of achieving artistic mastery. The hands are placed apart in the standing position in order to achieve balance.

The description given by Sifu Jan creates a greater awareness of the internal body mechanic. With such awareness, a person can easily control his balance. Awareness about the central point helps to improve the form. It takes the combination of a mental and physical theory to achieve renewed form.

The book has a regulative, calculative and unique way of introducing inner energy. By experience, Tai chi relaxes the mind and helps to control blood pressure. It has been recommended by cardiologist as a natural remedy.

Senior masters have shared their experiences through the pages on how to achieve inner depth. It helps to transform artists who are used to soft arts during the crucial transformation phase. Some of the techniques suggested include the standing Qigong meditation style and the Grasp Bird Tail which involves motion.

The instructions and descriptions given by Sifu wake the title useful to amateurs and seasoned artists alike. It has a simplistic guide on how the skills are developed. A lot of emphasis is put on consistency during practice and the simple moves which make a great difference.

The first volume was published in 1995 covering the Qigong center. It was followed by volume 2 which covered The Tao of Yiquan and was released in 1999. The author describes his experiences as recorded during meditation sessions with masters.

Masters of Perception is the last volume in the series. It hit the market in 2013 and covers the breadth and power possessed by masters during intense sessions. They are able to gain an extraordinary subtleness and depth over years of practice. The volume has laid a lot of emphasis on concentration for anyone seeking to master any form of art. The content and style of presentation offer value for money.



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