tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18986583118503596022024-02-18T20:10:32.628-08:00Taiji Center Port Richey FLVisit my web-site
taijicenter.comtaijicenterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006354603403775475noreply@blogger.comBlogger21125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1898658311850359602.post-33101854390609614762020-11-09T05:35:00.000-08:002020-11-09T05:35:06.461-08:00<p> </p><div class="" dir="auto"><div class="" dir="auto"><div class="ecm0bbzt hv4rvrfc ihqw7lf3 dati1w0a" data-ad-comet-preview="message" data-ad-preview="message"><div class="j83agx80 cbu4d94t ew0dbk1b irj2b8pg"><div class="qzhwtbm6 knvmm38d"><h2><span class="d2edcug0 hpfvmrgz qv66sw1b c1et5uql rrkovp55 a8c37x1j keod5gw0 nxhoafnm aigsh9s9 d3f4x2em fe6kdd0r mau55g9w c8b282yb iv3no6db jq4qci2q a3bd9o3v knj5qynh oo9gr5id hzawbc8m" dir="auto"><div class="kvgmc6g5 cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Taiji Mind Body Spirit Connection:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpp_rwnR2m9kGPG9NDJEkE5QHftbBZpM6W3Ypg0STC7zuoghyphenhyphenFooJKz3FN7q4iZ5LJ4oKZ0fPIdnlyvo61T4HaeWb-V59pTGBPm0Ry31vABpLQ5j1YKG84MTMGwYdBuKsWeSaK2KmhY0k/s1081/124819654_3374386709335659_3043874956414625578_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1081" data-original-width="526" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpp_rwnR2m9kGPG9NDJEkE5QHftbBZpM6W3Ypg0STC7zuoghyphenhyphenFooJKz3FN7q4iZ5LJ4oKZ0fPIdnlyvo61T4HaeWb-V59pTGBPm0Ry31vABpLQ5j1YKG84MTMGwYdBuKsWeSaK2KmhY0k/s320/124819654_3374386709335659_3043874956414625578_o.jpg" /></a></div><br /></b></span></div></div></span></h2><span class="d2edcug0 hpfvmrgz qv66sw1b c1et5uql rrkovp55 a8c37x1j keod5gw0 nxhoafnm aigsh9s9 d3f4x2em fe6kdd0r mau55g9w c8b282yb iv3no6db jq4qci2q a3bd9o3v knj5qynh oo9gr5id hzawbc8m" dir="auto"><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q"><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;">While conducting an outdoor class the other day a student asked me "When does the Spirit become understood"?</div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;">For me the Mind and Body connection was a much easier concept to grasp and apply compared to that of the spirit. The mind and body work together well and efficiently with proper Taiji practice.</div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;">The Spiritual aspect if it is to be realized at all takes much more effort .</div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;">It's like having three kids. The quiet child is often the hardest to know and understand. With all the activity and noise surrounding the other two the quiet one becomes almost invisible. </div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;">Sometimes it seems that you have to first deal with the other two and teach them to relax and settle down before you get a chance to spend time with the quiet one. But when you do begin to understand the unique value the quiet one offers to the rest of the family you'll wonder how you ever got along with out them.</div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;">I had learn to deal with the first two long before I met the third. My Taiji training has introduced me to the quiet one. Not to play favorites, but getting to know the quiet one has made more of a difference than the other two combined. The mind and body although important will never reach their true potential without the third because that is the missing element that unifies all three (the whole family). For me that is where the highest level of balance, understanding and contentment can be achieved. </div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;">I have barely scratched the surface of understanding this special relationship but already feel it's influence on the whole.</div></div></span></div></div></div></div></div>taijicenterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006354603403775475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1898658311850359602.post-59521707157266729742016-05-27T18:45:00.001-07:002016-05-27T18:45:19.234-07:00Open Style Grappling 2016 Rules<h2>
OSG 2016 Rules</h2>
Rules may be updated periodically to improve fairness and safety for competitors . Please check with officials and attend Grapplers Meeting before any competitions . <br />
<u><b>Next Event: Orlando FL July 10, 2016.</b></u><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnZlVwcTqONWGtKsWDoUrZkfUQVbnWZ-hdlbnvHfUYa9COUpDhFBc6C2q-BBi_BGN07nNkVtjZ1JxKwwK4Ay8xi_NcmTQ7Ct5-Oi78IyLPz1aulymJoP_9rpJqGXGc8nYcAnrLetcdWno/s1600/OSG-Logo-Black0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="157" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnZlVwcTqONWGtKsWDoUrZkfUQVbnWZ-hdlbnvHfUYa9COUpDhFBc6C2q-BBi_BGN07nNkVtjZ1JxKwwK4Ay8xi_NcmTQ7Ct5-Oi78IyLPz1aulymJoP_9rpJqGXGc8nYcAnrLetcdWno/s200/OSG-Logo-Black0004.jpg" width="200" /></a> <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Arial Black","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Open Style Grappling</span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b><span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Uniform and protective
equipment and other requirements:</span></b><span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Contestants
must wear a T-shirt or uniform top, Martial arts pants or fight shorts, .
No jewelry or watches and nails must be trimmed. All contestants must be
bare footed, </span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Note: Contestant must be free of serious
infectious diseases </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b><span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Competition area:</span></b><span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The
competition area consists of one ring which is a square. The square being approximately
15 x 15 feet in size. (May vary venue to venue)</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b><span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Match Format: </span></b><span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">A
match consists of </span><b><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">three 2-minute rounds</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
with a 1 Minute break in between rounds. </span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The
clock will stop when the Center Referee stops the action for infractions,
injuries or technical reasons. </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The
round is scored at the end of the 2 minute period</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The
winner of the first two round wins the match</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b><span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Preparation and
Progression of Match:</span></b><span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></div>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo4; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Play
is begun with the contestants in a forward stance</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo4; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">When
play is stopped for any reason, contestants return to the starting
position </span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i><span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The contestants can use all the pushing,
tripping, grappling, throwing techniques with all body parts except the head,
but no punching, kicking, full sweeping, attacking on the head, clawing or
striking the throat, eyes, ears or groin.</span></i><span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b><span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Scoring:</span></b><span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">One
point is awarded if the throw was completed when the contestant executing
the throw remains <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>in a position of
control (Including on the ground). </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">One
point is given for maintaining control on the ground</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">One
point is awarded if the opponent on the ground is able to get to his feet
or gain a dominant position</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Three
points are awarded if an individual falls or is taken down inside or
outside the ring while the other remains standing</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Stepping
on the perimeter line constitutes outside the ring. </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">3
Points are awarded for a perfectly executed throw and the contestant
executing the throw remains standing</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Contestants
will be called back to a stand up position due to prolonged inactivity on
the ground</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Contestants
can also win the round by submission at any point in any given round.</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b><span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Round Winner:</span></b><span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l6 level1 lfo6; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">A
round is awarded if a contestant reaches (12) points </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l6 level1 lfo6; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">A
round ending with a tie score: contestant that possessed more control over
opponent or cleaner technique will be awarded the round</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b><span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Match
Winner: </span></b><span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The first contestant who wins the first two
rounds wins the match</span><span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b><span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Warnings:</span></b><span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><b><span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Illegal Techniques & violations </span></b><span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo7; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Kicking,
striking, kneeing and elbowing </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo7; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Spiking
(Pile Driving) </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo7; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Slamming
opponent to the ground with excessive force </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo7; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Attacking
to the head, neck, throat, ears or groin </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo7; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Attacking
or locking the joints with </span><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">intention to injure</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo7; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Attacking
or pushing with head </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo7; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Pulling
hair or clothes </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo7; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Using
any technique determined to cause injury </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo7; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Receiving
coaching during the round </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo7; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Avoiding
engagement with opponent. </span><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> (Stalling)</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo7; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><b><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Any joint lock or
choke applied with the intention to injure will be cause for immediate
disqualification to the contestant applying the technique</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b><span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Each warning will
result in a point being awarded to the other contestant</span></b><span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b><span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">3 warnings in a match
will result in the loss of the match</span></b><span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b><span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Disqualification:</span></b><span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> The following
will result in immediate disqualification</span><span style="color: #5f1e0a; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo8; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Excessive
and dangerous use of force</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo8; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Accumulation
of 3 warnings</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo8; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Attacking
the eyes</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #5f1e0a; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo8; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Unsportsmanlike
conduct by the athlete or coach</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />taijicenterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006354603403775475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1898658311850359602.post-17295772512746843212015-01-02T09:46:00.000-08:002015-01-02T09:46:18.297-08:00New series of short Stories -Child's First PrayerChild's First Prayer<br />
<br />
While living in China I had the privilege of sharing my home with my niece (as well as my two youngest children). One morning she innocently asked me 2 questions that I could not answer. "Does God shower and does he have big feet". I told her that I honestly don't know, but I find that when searching for answers it is best to go directly to the source. She replied "OK how do I do that". At that moment, I understood that she had never said a prayer. I told her it is really quite simple, close your eyes, think about what you would like to say and point your thoughts towards God. If you stay very quiet and relaxed you will hear the answer. She did and told me she got a yes to both. I guess life does not have to be that complicated.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHWjukFQ8-PLGD25Ph5S6irUWooxDb_Ikyk_ul4TymYFu5I605LJITdA8zJ3n7OXYOuL7mYb7YqwDik2UbA9NpQPsWYSxSfYdV6I8JjT0BopfVhKRUfkQ7bhKnMfiTsvCEdHBEBGsqPc8/s1600/first-prayer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHWjukFQ8-PLGD25Ph5S6irUWooxDb_Ikyk_ul4TymYFu5I605LJITdA8zJ3n7OXYOuL7mYb7YqwDik2UbA9NpQPsWYSxSfYdV6I8JjT0BopfVhKRUfkQ7bhKnMfiTsvCEdHBEBGsqPc8/s1600/first-prayer.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Kids make the greatest teachers.</div>
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</div>
taijicenterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006354603403775475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1898658311850359602.post-70385818538627763152014-12-21T13:36:00.000-08:002014-12-21T13:36:02.183-08:00Kung Fu's Effectiveness Questioned Kung Fu's Effectiveness Questioned ?<br />
<br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Keep in mind, I am a
devoted (but open minded) Taiji Player with a life long connection to martial
arts and the past 25 yrs to Taiji (almost exclusively) . <br />
Some basic reasons why Kung Fu is considered less effective than some of the
Martial Arts presently in the spot light today such as MMA. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">All arts have their
weaknesses and strengths. Arts must evolve with the environment and the time,
failure to do so may make a once effective style less than that. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Often some current Kung Fu stylists refuse to
see this point. Kung Fu has always been a fighting art and some lines remain
true to their original purpose and continue to adapt. Others do not and have
lost much of what was reality based and is needed to survive in today's
world. Other aspects of true Kung Fu have been lost or at least diluted
due to the fact of extreme and difficult training methods are not welcome by
many in today’s want it fast and want it easy society. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many arts have had offshoots leaning towards
the sport side like judo and jiu jitsu (the skills displayed in the sport
versions still represent martial techniques in much more controlled arena). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Traditional kung fu has
also seen such a split. Modern Wushu possibly the most recognized child of
Traditional Kung Fu is taking much of the attention with its flash and
acrobatics (unfortunately it is also less martial which equals less practical).
Other off shoots like Sanda and the Open Style Grappling do provide a venue for
more reality based competitions, but presently lack the popularity of MMA.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When
you think of big names in MMA, those individuals certainly possess martial
skills. Most main streamers think of Kung Fu's big names and they relate to
movie stars such as Jackie Chan, Jel Li and others not known for combat. I
am a tremendous fan of both and they display an extraordinary level of skill,
just not focused on martial. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Arts come in many
flavors and the popular flavor today happens to be MMA. Closer looks at Kung Fu
practiced the way it was intended show no signs of weakness, but few practice
it that way and even fewer display their hard earned skills. Popular flavors
come and go but chocolate and vanilla will always be around. Kung Fu and its
Japanese sibling Karate are more like the chocolate and vanilla whereas MMA has
not earned its place on the permanent menu yet, but it may and that is a good
thing (I also believe it should). It creates a venue where even with its rules
it does represent an element of realism. Time will tell. This brief explanation
has excluded mentioning many other traditional martial art categories. This
does not indicate their lack of effectiveness, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just do not have room to include them.
Lastly, for those who say that Kung Fu is to deadly to be in the ring. If it is
a complete art, it should at least be effective in any environment. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
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<o:p> </o:p></div>
taijicenterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006354603403775475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1898658311850359602.post-85624632224435208042014-09-27T15:55:00.000-07:002014-09-28T18:40:57.443-07:00Taiji Silk Reeling Exercise ( Chansigong )<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 20pt;">Taiji Silk Reeling Exercise (
Chansigong )<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Is It The Ultimate Basic Exercise For All Martial Artists As
Well As Chen Taiji’s Best Kept Secret?</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiREHl7Cw3MCW-HYkClNObkJkicbeBnOp6bn984ZDnQ9mIjRnSr94irlnKXzUP-wA9mmPQR2RR97waFNkY7OhVYsoLXY2U3l31ikFC1gsLL7Y93XtjGI0q-8BgO5gSq9LHgJyKfkPNhMbg/s1600/13-ictures-extractions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiREHl7Cw3MCW-HYkClNObkJkicbeBnOp6bn984ZDnQ9mIjRnSr94irlnKXzUP-wA9mmPQR2RR97waFNkY7OhVYsoLXY2U3l31ikFC1gsLL7Y93XtjGI0q-8BgO5gSq9LHgJyKfkPNhMbg/s1600/13-ictures-extractions.jpg" height="132" width="200" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi079cmVR-TIK93tSw1V-sdUd_TwHDV4MsiPaKrVIrdLF3oJhj41CuOIlBdPYRB8N-xplAhalHBlYa218JO10C_vZ5LkNWVViPXh83-TyDyNkrbu6T97Qx59BbJ2Y340MXyf70lySQCjdU/s1600/13-laojia-slow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi079cmVR-TIK93tSw1V-sdUd_TwHDV4MsiPaKrVIrdLF3oJhj41CuOIlBdPYRB8N-xplAhalHBlYa218JO10C_vZ5LkNWVViPXh83-TyDyNkrbu6T97Qx59BbJ2Y340MXyf70lySQCjdU/s1600/13-laojia-slow.jpg" height="132" width="200" /></a></div>
<o:p></o:p><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
</div>
<br />
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<o:p> </o:p></div>
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p> </o:p></i><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Chen
Style Taiji has a unique method of teaching basics to beginners by using a
drill known as silk reeling. The drill named for its resemblance to the smooth,
circular and spiraling movements of the silk worm larva wrapping itself up in
to its cocoon as well as the equally smooth method often associated with an
individual unraveling the cocoon for the extraction of the silk thread (used in
the production of silk). However the continued practice of this basic drill evolves
into a much more sophisticated exercise. It evolves into a means for uncovering
deeper and more refined layers of understanding pertaining to advanced body
movement and breath control. Even the most accomplished practitioner will
benefit from this silk reeling. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
Over the past 45 years or so I have
spent<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>more than a substantial amount of
time dedicating myself to a few specific arts (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">a decade plus for most and over two decades with Taiji</i> ). I have
also invested shorter, but equally intense durations in a multitude of other
arts searching for additional points of view and bare essentials. I am a firm
believer in building from the ground up and never under estimate the value of
what I first learn at the early stages of training (and how I can build on that
solid platform). <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have applied this
philosophy in other pieces of my personal wellness program such as meditation, nutrition,
strength and endurance training as well as life itself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As much as I do love the traditions
associated with martial arts, I have made that a secondary aspect of my
practice. I have tried not to become blinded by those traditions at the cost of
practicality. I do remain aware of the fact that they do hold their place and
are essential in fully understanding any particular martial discipline
regarding where the art came from, how and why it evolved the way in which it
did. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Two important things to remember:
All martial arts evolve over time and for good reasons. One being the need to
adapt to new environments secondly no two individuals are exactly the same.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once the practitioner comprehends these
points through diligent practice they too can evolve as a martial artist. Harmoniously
blending principles together when possible (even if from different arts) to
attain a higher level of proficiency has been done throughout martial art
history and continues to do so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
Martial arts are not about cloning
forms from master to student. Success is based on the proper transmission of
principles and how they apply to each individual.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
Keep in mind my most comfortable
shoes will never fit anyone else exactly the way they fit me and some people
won’t even be able to get their feet inside to see what they feel like. It
would be useless to spend time trying to make them fit if they were either too
small or too large. That does not mean every movement or technique the
individual learns in conjunction with a specific martial art should be avoided
at the first sign of a challenge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But do
remember, for many reasons not every aspect of every art is one-hundred percent
suitable for everyone and must sometimes be modified to suit the individual’s
needs. The needs for modifications may be based on many factors. To name a few such
as environment, age, previous injuries and realistically speaking genetics related
to size and strength as well as skeletal structure, muscles, tendons and
ligament insertion regarding the skeletal system etc…. That being said many
martial art principles do remain universal, but the applications of those
principles may require some adjustments. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
What does this have to do with the
title of this article and “<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Silk Reeling</b>”?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Simply put, silk reeling is by far the most
basic yet important training method I have ever engaged in. It is applicable to
every martial art I have ever practiced as well as any movement your body
performs (or breath you take) under both ordinary and extraordinary circumstances.
It also possesses equal significance associated to an individual’s health and
longevity. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have already mentioned the
importance of basics, but one must realize that even previously reliable<span style="color: red;"> </span>basics may become counterproductive or even corrosive
to our body and our health if not adjusted properly to conditions such as
aging, injuries etc…. What was correct and natural for me yesterday, may not be
correct and natural for me tomorrow or today for that matter. From the highly
athletic to the extreme elderly silk reeling requires but a minor modification
if any and can be done in a standing or seated position.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If any
exercise can stand (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">or sit</i>) the test
of time both through the history of a martial art and the history of an
individual’s life, Silk Reeling is it.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">What is silk reeling? <o:p></o:p></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
It is Chen Taji’s method of
tempering the body for the most efficient and productive movement possible.
This exercise ordinarily follows standing pole<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>(zhang zhaung) practice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Based on
Yin and Yang it uses spiraling and circular body motion, related to ligament,
tendons, muscle, skeletal structure as well as all joints of the body (in a simultaneous
or sequential fashion). Proper alignment and center awareness with minimal
amount of tension throughout the body and mind are essential. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
Secondly but equally important is
the breath coordinated with all movement as related to the Traditional Chinese
Medicine theory of Jingluo (qi circulating <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>throughout the body ). <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
Thirdly it prepares the student on
movements easily transferable to the Taiji forms. Forms which consist of both
slow and fast as well as empty hand, weapons and two man push hands practice.
All the above which lead to self defense applications and free style fighting
such as Sanda. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="background: yellow; mso-highlight: yellow;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
However silk reeling can also be
practiced as a standalone exercise for any martial artist (not only Taiji
players) or individual of any age and any condition seeking to improve overall
health. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Therein lies the beauty and
uniqueness of silk reeling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
The end results from the martial
perspective is the development of an extreme sensitivity in reading an opponent
as well as a keen sense of awareness as to where the bodies boundaries are. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Additional skills learnt from silk reeling,
defensively allows the Taiji player to lead the opponent in to being off
centered and in the wrong place while you remain centered in right place. That
set of circumstances lends to allowing the Taiji player to capitalize on the
opponent’s weaknesses before they can readjust and regain their center of balance
and consider defending. In other words the trained opponent is temporarily
unable to use their honed skills and becomes vulnerable while the Taiji player
possesses the superior position to counterattack.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These counters are a versatile arsenal of
strikes with a variety of body parts,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>joint-locks, sweeps, take-downs as well as submissions <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(all of which are based on the mechanics of
silk reeling) to control the attacker. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
From the health perspective the
body’s immune system is enhanced as well as improved balance, coordination, neurological
strength from brain to muscle and physical strength. Perhaps most importance is
its ability to relieve stress. Silk reeling utilizes the theory of qi
circulation mentioned above. It creates an internal flow of qi and helps
promotes overall health.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All above being
prerequisites for maintaining quality of life for any ages.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
The silk reeling routine uses a
variety of single and two arm circular motions. These circles engage use of the
entire body and all of its joints likened to the moving parts of a well
designed Swiss watch. Any movement is a sum of all of the body’s parts without
the over extending of any. Arm circle combinations cover almost every
imaginable combination of clockwise and counter clockwise circles. They are
also done </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
from a variety of positions such as horse, bow and empty
stances. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If the practitioner places an overabundance
of attention to either Yin or Yang an imbalance will occur. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">(Below
19<sup>th</sup> Gen Grand Master Zhu Tiancai demonstrating single arm silk
reeling)</b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;"><o:p> Above - </o:p></span></b><span style="color: red;">Hand/wrist rotating away from center<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span> </div>
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<span style="color: red;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <strong>Above - </strong></span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hand/wrist
rotating towards center<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;">The hand/wrist rotating outward is referred to as a Ni circle.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;">The hand/wrist rotating inward towards center is referred to
as a Shun circle<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;">Two other important characteristics of the hand/wrist are a
rising wrist and sinking wrist. These four movements are combined and form the
visible circular path.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;">Keep in mind that these movements come from a proper rooted,
but relaxed position. By pushing off the ground which drives the turning of the
waist and rotation of the dantain transfering the energy upward through the
upper body, shoulder, elbow and hand. The process continues (without stopping)
reversing the energy flow back to the dantian and repeats itself in a circular,
spiraling, relaxed fashion (repetitiously). <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;">(Above 19<sup>th</sup> Gen Grand Master Zhu
Tiancai with author demonstrating<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>various two arm silk reeling combinations)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For those interested in primarily the health
aspect they need not practice the countless adaptations of these circles.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For martial artists in the advanced stages the
circle can become small in nature. (Sometimes invisible, but still present.) <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They should be performed at different speeds
while still keeping the body properly aligned and always maintaining a good
awareness of one’s center without over extending in any direction. The
transitions related to the stances offer training in foot-work that will later
become essential for the martial artist in a free style environment. The Taiji
martial artist will learn how to defend every angle from any angle. The circles
will vary in size training the practitioner in both defense and offense against
all attack styles from strikes, grappling and joint-locks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Circles although resembling blocks from other
styles are designed more for deflection and leading an opponent in to a sense
of disarray regarding their balance<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>as
opposed to meeting the direct impact of a strike head on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Silk reeling eventually graduates in to a two
man drill (known as push-hands) where timing and position as well as reading an
opponent are practiced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As in many arts
timing and position are key, but perhaps Taiji takes them to an even more
articulate level. This training enhances those principles. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Taiji practitioners gains experience in
relaxing the body’s unused muscle, ligaments and tendons and conservative use
of those needed to maintain balance or engage in any specific tasks or movements.
This creates quite the challenge for an opponent to employ joint-locks, strikes
and throws successfully. It is this same relaxed body that allows the Taiji
player to release an extraordinary amount of power in any directions when
striking out at an opponent. Strikes are usually short and non-telegraphic in
nature but none the less quite explosive. As another means of defense the
smaller circles are equally effective at both reversal of joint locks when
attempted by the opponent as well as joint locking the opponent for submission
or inflicting more intense damage to their joints.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>More
detailed explanations of Taiji principles are explained in my Demystifying
Taiji articles. If you dismiss Taiji training as a strictly senior citizen
activity you ought to reinvestigate this art at a traditional training
facility. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Having the ability to move your body is not
unique. Having the skill to move your body and perform at peak efficiency the
way in which it was intended is. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></i><br />
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">And that is a product of Silk Reeling</i>.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<o:p> ___________________________________________________________________</o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
19<sup>th</sup> Generation Chen
Family Grand Master Zhu Tiancai’s</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>FIVE GOLDEN RUES.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgffgRiY1AnwiQxvX93B100I8Pca0rEG-UPfEqWp89W-efAST35tzCNEs3REkECz7CD68yL7Ic0YDMF_rfX9xZ6JkzsBbO3kRY9un6hN615pGgy9PtZc9wYwzUm6RpMDW_GOKs3LVjlQpo/s1600/IMG_4224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgffgRiY1AnwiQxvX93B100I8Pca0rEG-UPfEqWp89W-efAST35tzCNEs3REkECz7CD68yL7Ic0YDMF_rfX9xZ6JkzsBbO3kRY9un6hN615pGgy9PtZc9wYwzUm6RpMDW_GOKs3LVjlQpo/s1600/IMG_4224.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />
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<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
1<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Sink (relax the kua)</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
2<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Shift<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(substantial and
insubstantial )</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
3<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Rotation (turning of the waist)</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
4<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Coordinate Upper Body Movement</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
5<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Coordinate Breath</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
If you are interested in learning
more about silk reeling and how it can enhance your own martial skills or add
better health to your life regardless of your condition contact me. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
Steve Contes</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Email: </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">taijicenter@aol.com</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Web Site: </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">taijicenter.com<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">About
the author/Steve Contes: A practicing martial artist for over 45 years
(presently a full-time Chen Taijiquan<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Instructor) and researcher of philosophy and health from around the
world, old and new. He also promotes seminars both here in the states as well
as in Chen Jiagou (Chen Village) Henan, China with some of the world’s leading
authorities on Chen Taijiquan. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Training
tours throughout China are also available.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
taijicenterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006354603403775475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1898658311850359602.post-68599838398659403132013-11-29T08:59:00.000-08:002013-12-23T13:02:57.317-08:00They don't make em like they used to <h2>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">They don't make em like they used to</span> </h2>
<h3>
written by Steve Contes</h3>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 20pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Can we
attain the extraordinary skills that legends are made of?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN; mso-no-proof: yes;"><v:shape alt="masters a (2).jpg" id="Picture_x0020_2" o:spid="_x0000_i1026" style="height: 199.8pt; mso-wrap-style: square; visibility: visible; width: 150pt;" type="#_x0000_t75">
<v:imagedata o:title="masters a (2)" src="file:///C:\Users\steve\AppData\Local\Temp\msohtmlclip1\01\clip_image002.jpg">
</v:imagedata></v:shape></span></b></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: red;">Huang Fei Hung</span> - Museum, Foshan,
China<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="color: red;">Chen Fake</span> -
Chen Jiagou, China</span></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIqgAU9V979K6jqlFIEvZd8-718Bjsn6ECWVJSkUJLojEI5Z2alxcImXDyCfUf3f9vHOKnMHjA9sBRRwFz1-VuOmd0YW26gpV5tWq5CXE_74qUN0vrRvHrG6sQp1Kxox3k8xzFqssBCFI/s1600/masters+a+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIqgAU9V979K6jqlFIEvZd8-718Bjsn6ECWVJSkUJLojEI5Z2alxcImXDyCfUf3f9vHOKnMHjA9sBRRwFz1-VuOmd0YW26gpV5tWq5CXE_74qUN0vrRvHrG6sQp1Kxox3k8xzFqssBCFI/s320/masters+a+%25282%2529.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span></span></b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy__LWSHUzM7sRtvAmi61FTPwh0iorZrU90HbUDcEvg_0bwH5Kuje-ar1RfdmQnZ1VP0RbGiqxREkpH2maCJP-A6qh4_wkJAs4-pawaym2ffJswVvm-yTD0Vvs38T-Vcmuka6M0FATYyY/s1600/IMG_0606.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy__LWSHUzM7sRtvAmi61FTPwh0iorZrU90HbUDcEvg_0bwH5Kuje-ar1RfdmQnZ1VP0RbGiqxREkpH2maCJP-A6qh4_wkJAs4-pawaym2ffJswVvm-yTD0Vvs38T-Vcmuka6M0FATYyY/s320/IMG_0606.JPG" width="240" /></a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span></span></b> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><o:p><span style="color: red;">Yip Man</span> aka <span style="color: red;">Ip Man</span> Wing Chun (Ving Tsun) Master - Photo below taken at Yip Man Museum in Foshan China </o:p></span></span></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzjHF8FrqcgTZN1UgnZcur69zrnRWyOo9vwHcyQxpZuY9-9XeNCap60xBFW9uG1NuyNLH73lpcjEpI4r9um88DdB9MB7tM3EHycqNhNewuLR14gRGhqKsRu4Ddz8ngmUO9TFbdVwYhorM/s1600/IMG_0574.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzjHF8FrqcgTZN1UgnZcur69zrnRWyOo9vwHcyQxpZuY9-9XeNCap60xBFW9uG1NuyNLH73lpcjEpI4r9um88DdB9MB7tM3EHycqNhNewuLR14gRGhqKsRu4Ddz8ngmUO9TFbdVwYhorM/s320/IMG_0574.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigR7BUO6TkA5EtLfPSm7vkubOzddfQ6xzmu_pLk8hHgDoVe3rs9nq2wVbUoYLITGDYjXXO35qRnPBIvvrLQ_pA3gP09BrWXd47B2pMkdkUbTV1xzGitAkUxAyIOsblrLC2WuVj0KGr9TA/s1600/IMG_0579.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b> </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 20pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Where are
all the great Masters of yesteryears? The heroes in which we draw are
inspirations from. The heroes that have influenced filmmakers from Hollywood to
Hong Kong. Heroes that have been portrayed by modern day kung fu stars such
Bruce Lee, Jet Li, Jackie Chan, Donnie Yen and so on goes the prestigious list.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With all the advancement and greater
understanding with in the sciences of training, technology, kinesiology and
nutrition you’d think we could produce super-human Martial Artists.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Nutrition
alone has made us bigger, faster and stronger than before. Just watch the
Olympics and see how all other areas of athleticism continue to advance and ask
yourself, why not Kung Fu or other traditional martial arts. As a matter of
fact why does it appear that the newer generations of Masters are lacking some
of the legendary skills now only spoken about. Could it be that they are just
that, legends that may have been born out of mere remnants of the truth, but
have grown larger than life over time and strayed away from accurate
assessments of martial skills. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Perhaps it
is also perception and the desire of each individual to believe that their
teachers are the best around and their teacher’s teachers were the stuff of
legends. Will our perception of our own teachers become embellished regarding
the legitimate skills they possess?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Has our life
so full of conveniences and so called advantages turned against us, making us
softer and weaker (physically, mentally, and spiritually)?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Have we lost
contact with the spiritual and mental side of training? <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Are we not
in need of some of the martial skills that were once necessary for our personal
survival?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">How does
discipline fit in to the formula and why is it often lacking?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I will
examine this issue from these different angles.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Perhaps the
answer to our topic lies in a combination of our Perception, Lifestyle,
Necessity, the potentially missing aspect of our Spirituality and conceivably the
most neglected ingredient discipline.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 24pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Perception<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Here is but a brief look at
perception. To cover the subject in depth would provide enough material to fill
volumes<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #0070c0; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #0070c0; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">With
the utmost respect I refer to the explanation below. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #0070c0; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Perception
as explained by </span></span><span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 9.0pt;">Dr. Francis
Colavita<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Emeritus Associate Professor
of Psychology at the University of Pittsburgh, where he taught for more than 40
years) extracted from </span><span style="color: #0070c0; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Great Courses Web Site <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">:
</b></span></span><a href="http://www.thegreatcourses.com/tgc/courses/course_detail.aspx?cid=1546"><span style="color: #0070c0; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Click Here</span></span></a><span style="color: #0070c0; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> for site<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<br />
<h3 style="line-height: normal; margin: 10pt 0in 0pt 0.25in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; page-break-after: auto;">
<span style="background: yellow; color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; mso-highlight: yellow;">Though the physical world we occupy may
be identical, the reality we <em><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">experienc<span style="mso-pattern: gray-15 auto; mso-shading: white;">e</span></span></em>—the
perceptions created when our brains combine the input from our senses with past
encounters with those same inputs—is very different. And this is true not only
from one person to another, but within the same individual, as well. For our
various sensory systems can be altered over time, their acuity changing in
response to aging or injury, life experiences, evolving personalities, and
other factors. </span><span style="background: yellow; font-size: 14pt; mso-highlight: yellow;"><o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Through my
professional experience as a private detective I have had the opportunity to investigate
hundreds of cases which have included taking statements from witnesses that
witnessed the same incident. It is more often than not that statements differ
from slightly to totally.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have also
gone back and updated statements from original witnesses (after a year to
sometimes even five or ten) that are quite different from what they thought and
definitively stated when their memory was fresher. From one of my earlier careers as a bouncer in my hometown I had witnessed this same phenomenon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It has affected stories about altercations
(personally involving me) at the clubs that I worked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Certainly
stories that in reality I could never live up to</i>) So we can consider the
valid point expressed above as a possible answer to not intentionally
exaggerating or explaining what someone may have seen or even more indirectly
heard. We can also consider the fact that our memories and perception of events
in our own life change over time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sit
down with a sibling or old friend and discuss in detail an event that you both
shared, you will likely have many differences. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Even events
that two or more people observe at the same time may appear to be quite
different from each other and more importantly so than the reality and
surrounding facts of the event itself. Ask two sports fans watching the same
game that favor opposing teams to describe a possible foul or penalty during
the game or if there were any reasons why their team won or lost. (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Keep in mind they both just witnessed the
same event on the same screen and then cautiously step back.</i>) You may have
just fueled a great debate or worse. What we actually see, hear, smell, taste,
or touch and remember have many influences often leading to many inaccuracies. People
also blur the boundaries of what is subjective and what is objective. That is
why most people believe they have the cutest kid, know the best mechanic, and
have the smartest friends or the dumbest, and that no other mom can cook like
their own. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What student of the Martial
Arts has not at least mildly inflated stories or experiences related to what
they have witnessed regarding their teachers or training? <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This is
certainly a contributing factor to the topic of trying to discover why I
believe they don’t make them like they used to. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However this does not alter the fact that I
personally believe that some great masters did indeed exist and a smaller
subset even possessed extraordinary skills.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 24pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Lifestyle <o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-RUFcNoun6yim1dAH_PdEO7FeTamzB0PiBWCsa32vzmLqBWQZIYuo0Pb1QpTyFEPQzZpVxdvqfnbxauQt7c4iHGll67RQVZkyZCATRFjUfgsKc36_eSAZQ6Ib9tA8Z5L_qu-EfqJDjh8/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It would be
hard to argue that the conveniences we experience today and perhaps take for
granted were not part of the lifestyle of our grandparents nor are they part of
the lives of many living under third world or less modern conditions. Unfortunately
we have also picked up many negative elements related to such conveniences
including stress and often an overall decline in personal health from this so
called “good life”. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-RUFcNoun6yim1dAH_PdEO7FeTamzB0PiBWCsa32vzmLqBWQZIYuo0Pb1QpTyFEPQzZpVxdvqfnbxauQt7c4iHGll67RQVZkyZCATRFjUfgsKc36_eSAZQ6Ib9tA8Z5L_qu-EfqJDjh8/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-RUFcNoun6yim1dAH_PdEO7FeTamzB0PiBWCsa32vzmLqBWQZIYuo0Pb1QpTyFEPQzZpVxdvqfnbxauQt7c4iHGll67RQVZkyZCATRFjUfgsKc36_eSAZQ6Ib9tA8Z5L_qu-EfqJDjh8/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I believe a
challenging lifestyle with less stress can be conducive to a strong body and
mind. I have personally witnessed this phenomenon living and working in a small
city in China for three years. I observed many people and their daily routines
(<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">minus some of the so called advantages
of modern living</i>) enjoying success in most of their endeavors large or
small.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This also
included their martial skills. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A very
basic example: It stands to reason that an individual who walks at least few
miles to and from work daily <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(often
carrying the needed tools)</i> regardless of sub zero or extremely hot
temperatures will not only be physically healthier but develop a more
disciplined mind to complete what needs to be done. A few more examples would
be the person who rides their bicycle to work under the same conditions but even
a greater distance. Or the laborers commonly observed on road or construction
crews using simple tools to accomplish great physical feats from digging to
moving heavy objects. (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Tasks that one
would think should never be attempted without the assistance of modern
machinery.</i>)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I am not
implying that individuals here in the States are not capable of the same, but
what I am stating is that here it is a rarity while in China it is considered
ordinary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I personally
used my bike (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">while living in China for three
years</i>) as my main mode of transportation which included riding my two
children one in the back and one seated in front of me to and from school
daily. A second round trip was made daily with my niece on the back seat to a different
school several miles from our home. This had to be done on a Mon-Fri schedule,
rain, snow or shine, freezing or extremely hot. Prior to this daily ritual
which started about 7:00am was my own daily trip to the park for a 90 min
Taiji/exercise workout and my stop on the way back home to pick up fresh milk for
our family breakfast. Of course each day I also transported myself to work and
did the food shopping with the help of my wife and her bicycle. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Two
bikes were needed to carry back the groceries daily because we only had a very
small refrigerator</i>) </span></span></div>
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</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJzX_uvGM5i7oiOoV-tTgkMZNj_-RxCGDpgte-3BxWA1SUby99v2mau0eWy6Pv733RhiYL0frJW9XHAHeecCN7mzaZFWpTTT_UbyeOUb7DtrEh4ioc8UWSr6_PAG_fApYDadiniXXqSs0/s1600/IMG0268A.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
<br />
<span style="color: red;"> Bike for Transportation is not limited to times of favorable weather.</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkAKwS8-8x-fNkNFOgq_2i1Sce_if8sxoUw8Rfmmn2ojtWkrTlnG4wocyV2pqgKpCvUeJYoiJS69eSQoQBvolweCEbUJLs5RyxsVLa2mT5PtCzN8RdG5O82VHWg9FMYsp3kLsLvJlxrIM/s1600/bikes+in+the+snow.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkAKwS8-8x-fNkNFOgq_2i1Sce_if8sxoUw8Rfmmn2ojtWkrTlnG4wocyV2pqgKpCvUeJYoiJS69eSQoQBvolweCEbUJLs5RyxsVLa2mT5PtCzN8RdG5O82VHWg9FMYsp3kLsLvJlxrIM/s320/bikes+in+the+snow.bmp" width="320" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivYThtRZ4pR2LJtniewQqqd_qkRsciOwpmrbN2WcEl280ppU4iFO5ebuD2NyxQbLnEYje4OKhS0uKBBvrZxtwRB0sw8r4Kh-sNZJIqB0cSPjEOgdM6MtQHIa24qnz7nzE9W5XEUY-NFP4/s1600/PICT0486.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivYThtRZ4pR2LJtniewQqqd_qkRsciOwpmrbN2WcEl280ppU4iFO5ebuD2NyxQbLnEYje4OKhS0uKBBvrZxtwRB0sw8r4Kh-sNZJIqB0cSPjEOgdM6MtQHIa24qnz7nzE9W5XEUY-NFP4/s320/PICT0486.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN; mso-no-proof: yes;"><v:shape alt="PICT0486.JPG" id="Picture_x0020_0" o:spid="_x0000_i1025" style="height: 238.8pt; mso-wrap-style: square; visibility: visible; width: 318pt;" type="#_x0000_t75">
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</v:imagedata></v:shape></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <span style="color: red;">triple baskets carry more groceries</span></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>What was born of these new found necessities
was a healthier/stronger body with a more disciplined approach to the chores at
hand fueled by freshly picked vegetables and fruits and a better appreciation
of everything we ate or drank.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is
but a fraction of what others did and still must do daily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For me personally, I grew to prefer this
method of living to any other I have experienced before or since. Consider the
levels of both physical and mental challenges to the people of this particular
small city and you can understand why they might excel in all their other
endeavors such as Kung Fu or for that matter anything else. Back this scenario
up another hundred years and consider the discipline needed to face the extreme
challenges daily just to put food on the table and you can begin to consider
lifestyle as a major player in the life of a Kung Fu master.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 24pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Necessity / Survival<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now let’s
dig a little deeper to another aspect of lifestyle that is part of our
primordial instinct, survival. Kung Fu was born of necessity in order to
protect oneself, family or a skill needed for occupations dealing with
protecting others and their belongings. Many Masters were employed as
bodyguards and escorts in an era where their lives were on the line or
challenged on a regular basis. Others were great military men or royal guards
for emperors and their families. It was also realized by these individuals that
while death was always near their skills were the only armor keeping them
alive. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kung Fu was not practiced as a
method for an individual to get in to shape on par with today’s other
activities such as jogging or swimming, tennis or racquet ball. Classes were
not scheduled two to three times a week as an after work / after school
activity. Kung Fu was a necessity of life and the closer they came to
perfection the increased chances for survival. Life was often dedicated to
training. You can’t find much more incentive for developing Mastery of your
Martial Art than that. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I will
mildly compare and contrast the life of a professional fighter. During their
career they are dedicated to perfecting the physical and mental skills of their
craft. No other priority in life can dominate if he or she is to achieve that
goal. However the most important factor removed from the equation is they are
not fighting for their lives nor are they defending their families or any other
individuals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Secondly I
will relate the above to the modern elite soldier. Although the soldier trains their
skills to survive as did many of the Martial arts Legends before him,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>they rely on modern technology and advanced weapon
systems as opposed to focusing on hand to hand combat,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>wielding swords or other hand held (self-powered)
weapons.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 24pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Spiritual/Mental <o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Perhaps the
deepest desire was beyond the physical attributes attained by the ordinary
Martial Artist. It may well be the never ending search for spiritual
enlightenment. For many Masters the physical paths followed were only a prelude
to the environment necessary to begin the journey to true Spiritual
Enlightenment. This being the most difficult objective of all was far beyond
just the extraordinary physical skills some had already come to possess be it
from training, lifestyle, necessity or a combination of. However when spiritual
enlightenment was achieved the elements of clarity and sensitivity were also
realized. This may be why the Master appears to know his opponents’ attacks
before they are launched or physically visible enhancing the ability to defend
and counter. Another key element to the consummate master is the removal of
fear. Now enlightened and no longer living in trepidation of death the Martial
artist was transformed in to true master. His physical skills were elevated to
an extremely high level; perhaps the stuff legends are made of and his exploits
will continue to echo through the generations.<span style="background: yellow; color: white; mso-highlight: yellow; mso-themecolor: background1;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 24pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Discipline<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Of course none
of the above mentioned needed to reach mastery as a Martial Artist could be
attained without extreme discipline. The greater the degree of personal
discipline is directly related to the degree of personal proficiency in
anything we aspire to do or be. Could Masters today reach the same level of
skills as those that came before them? I answer with an emphatic YES! Will they
or for that matter will you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That I
cannot answer, only you know if you will.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Hopefully
better understanding of the above can lead us to some of the extraordinary
skills we as martial artists only dream about.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: red;">Please send me your comments or opinions regarding this article.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
</div>
taijicenterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006354603403775475noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1898658311850359602.post-23595357451932723292013-09-26T04:02:00.001-07:002013-09-26T04:05:09.991-07:00Guest Author: Still as a Mountain Flowing Like a Great River <br />
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
</span><br />
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">Managing Type II Diabetes with Tai Chi Chuan<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></h2>
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><strong>
</strong></span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;"><strong><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">Robert W. Mann Empty Circle Tai Chi Chuan
Fa<o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></span></div>
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">I began my martial
arts practice during my service in the US Marine Corps in the early 1970s in
both traditional and innovative Chinese and Filipino martial arts. Coming full
circle I began training in authentic Tai Chi Chuan in 2005 and was fortunate to
find masters in both the Chen Family and Yang Family arts. Over the years my
practice had become intermittent. It wasn’t until I woke up night and found my
heart racing and was short of breath due to my life style at that time of
excessive alcohol abuse, extensive travel over work and lousy food. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">The next morning I
went out to my back yard and began to go through my Chen Family Chan Si Gong <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">(Silk Reeling Chi Kung)</b> and Four Sided
Tai Chi. I stopped drinking, gave up junk food and started making better
dietary choices. As time progressed I began to work with my other Tai Chi forms
to include the Chen 13 Postures and Yang Ben Hou and Yang Lu Chan forms. I
eventually integrated my combat conditioning program using Russian Kettle Bells
and Body Weight training while continuing my acupuncture and herbal treatments
that I receive from Dr. Patrick Sullivan, A.P. at the White Crane Clinic in
Tarpon Springs, FL. I began losing weight and was feeling great but I was very
thirsty and my weight loss was at a rate of 3 to 5 pounds a week. At first I
thought it was a good thing but had some concern as diabetes runs in my family.
So after a couple of months I thought it was time for a checkup to include
blood work to be done at my local VA clinic. After my blood work I was notified
that my A1C was 11 and my sugar was 326. I immediately arranged to meet with
Dr. Sullivan who informed that I had what in Traditional Chinese Medicine is
referred to as Jiao Gar “thirsting and wasting” essentially my body was eating
itself. The VA classified my condition a Type II Diabetes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">The funny thing was
I was feeling great getting stronger, how could I be sick? I didn’t even get
colds or flu and I hadn’t had a flu shot in over 10 years. Over the next
several months I continued to lose weight and my sugar continued to sky rocket
and my VA M.D. thought I should either be in a Diabetic Coma or dead, as my
sugar levels topped out at 650 and my weight bottomed out at 149 pounds.
Curiously I continued to feel good and my strength continued to improve. At the
time I was taking both allopathic and traditional Chinese medicine and continue
to use both treatments with the intent of eventually getting away from the
allopathic medicines all together.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">At this point with
my consistent daily Tai Chi practice along with the other 7 pillars of Traditional
Chinese Medicine my A1C and sugar levels are within normal ranges and continue
to feel great and have a strong immune system free of colds and flu. I’m living
proof that Tai Chi Chuan when used along with Traditional Chinese Medicine is
both a remarkable martial and healing art.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span></span><em></em><br />taijicenterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006354603403775475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1898658311850359602.post-57081144078552577552012-11-21T05:52:00.000-08:002012-11-29T13:45:51.819-08:00Is Your Taiji An Effective Martial Art
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<span style="font-size: 18pt;">Is Your Taijiquan An
Effective Martial Art? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By
Steve Contes<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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Taiji is a most generous art in which it is willing to share
all of its wealth with any willing practitioner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The more diligent the practice the greater
value of the gifts presented. Wealth and gifts in this case implying overall
health, physical and spiritual strength and sometimes, but not often martial
skills. I place no emphasis on which of the many offerings are most important. That
is personal and related to each individual and their priorities at any given
stages of their life. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I do acknowledge that
there are distinctions between Taiji and Taijiquan. There is a line drawn
separating Taiji players from the Taijiquan martial artists. Maybe even a better
explanation would be to state that Taijiquan martial artists or a subset in the
category of Taiji Players. </div>
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<o:p> </o:p></div>
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How can the player become the martial artist is the question
I will explore. </div>
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<o:p> </o:p></div>
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The issue of what it takes to obtain or perfect any of a variety
of skills or crafts will be the first task to address.</div>
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When one undertakes any form of comprehensive study there
are usually two sides to the training. We have both the theoretical and the
practical side. Doctors will undergo years of intensive training in Med
school.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But no matter how intelligent they
are or diligent they were as med-students, without the practical side of their
internship in their chosen field he or she would be incapable of utilizing their
newly found knowledge. Even at the early stages of a medical career, doctors
are far from being masters of their craft. It takes years of arduous practice to
slowly transcend them into (hopefully) competent practitioners of medicine. </div>
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Whether you are fresh out of law school or trade school, you
are still unseasoned in your field. I would not want to fly with a pilot on his
or her maiden voyage, be represented by an attorney without trial experience,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>go under the knife of a surgeon the day after
graduation nor what I have a novice carpenter build me a home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<o:p> </o:p></div>
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Why would one think martial arts could be any different? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Successful Martial Artists from an array of
disciplines hone their skills by combining theory, technique, conditioning,
drills and finally practical applications of the above with both willing and
unwilling partners.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Boxers spend
countless hours sparring, wrestlers pay their dues facing off on the mat,
judokas playing randori etc…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the past
Taijiquan Masters engaged in rigorous training not often seen here in today’s
Taiji world. They had to be confident in their skills, because they were used
to protect both the lives of others and themselves.</div>
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<o:p> </o:p></div>
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The Chen Family is commonly recognized for being the
originators of the martial art, Taijiquan which acted as the parent style for
its many offshoots.</div>
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It is also clearly documented by many sources that numerous
Chen Taiji Family members throughout their family history served as body
guards, escorts (not that kind), soldiers and protectors of their villages during
the violent and fierce times of China’s turbulent history. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="background: silver; mso-highlight: silver;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: silver; mso-highlight: silver;">These
early accounts go back as far as the1300s<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>with stories of Chen Bu (skilled martial artist of the Chen Family Clan)
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was Chen Bu after settling in a village
then known as Chang Yang Village (modern name, Chen Jiagou) lead a successful
attack on bandits that had been terrorizing the area prior to his arrival.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: silver; mso-highlight: silver;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
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<span style="background: silver; mso-highlight: silver;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
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<span style="background: silver; mso-highlight: silver;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Above Pictured: 9<sup>th</sup> Generation Chen
Wanting (1600-1680) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: silver; mso-highlight: silver;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
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<span style="background: silver; mso-highlight: silver;">Chen
Wanting served as a military officer and Commander of the Garrison Force of Wenxian, Henan China </span><span style="background: silver; mso-highlight: silver;">prior
to the fall of the Ming Dynasty (1644). As the leader of many successful
battles he too earned legendary status related to his martial arts prowess.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="background: silver; mso-highlight: silver;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
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<span style="background: silver; mso-highlight: silver;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was after this period during the early
Qing Dynasty era (which lasted from 1644-1911) where Chen Wanting developed a
unique martial art drawing on the principles of <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yin and Yang theory, Daoyin (leading energy) ,
and Tu-Na (expelling and drawing energy), and Jingluo Theory ( based on the
bodies meridians and energy flow).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="background: silver; mso-highlight: silver;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
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<span style="background: silver; mso-highlight: silver;">It is
his art that has evolved into to what we now know as Chen Style Taijiquan. It
is considered by most historians to have originated with the emphasis on
Martial Art skills. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="background: silver; mso-highlight: silver;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
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<span style="background: silver; mso-highlight: silver;">When it
became necessary for the Chen family members to employ their martial abilities,
there were no judges, mats or rules, just the pure instinct to survive.</span> </div>
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<o:p> </o:p></div>
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Fortunately today for most of us, we live in a much
different world, but that does not mean that such skills are no longer of value.
Obtaining those skills certainly require additional effort beyond the scope of
what most Taiji practitioners usually study. </div>
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<o:p> </o:p></div>
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Today’s Taiji Players engage in their art for many purposes
from general heath to self defense or anything in between. Training methods
include, but are not limited to the following: standing pole, meditation, moving
exercises such as different methods of qigong and forms, two man drills, the use
of weapons and training tools along with push-hands. These are considered by
many as the core aspects of the practice. If self defense is a concern for you
this curriculum may need to be adjusted. In this article we will not take time
to define the benefits of these so called Taiji fundamentals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
understand that most of the readers of this publication are likely to be well
versed on the subject of these rudimentary exercises. I also agree that they are
some of the integral key ingredients for the practitioner to cultivate his or
her skills. However those skills must be tested and refined in a practical and
realistic environment before they can become reliable for defense.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There appears to be a systematic form of
denial among some Taiji Players and teachers, novice to experienced (along with
other fellow martial artists) that the latter refinement process is not critical.
That could not be further from the truth. For Taijiquan martial artists there
is a definitive need to perfect their skills beyond the extremely valuable
forms and push hands that they practice. Based on my subjective opinion drawn
from my over forty years plus experience in a variety of martial arts, sixteen
years as a relatively small NY bouncer <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(about 160 lbs at the time) and seventeen
years as a private investigator/process server, reality based training for the
martial artist is nothing short of a necessity. </div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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I would confidently state those who believe push-hands (as
seen here in American competitions) can be used in place of free sparring
practice would become well educated in three or four minutes on the Sanda Leitai,
boxing ring, grappling mat or informally sparring with any competent reality
based martial artist. I will also confidentially state that any Taiji player
who has developed the skills that precede free sparring practice should be able
to smoothly transition to the next phase of reality training and become a
complete and effective martial artist.</div>
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<o:p> </o:p></div>
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Hypothetically speaking if there are nine levels of training
leading an individual to becoming a Taijiquan Martial Artist, achieving seven
or eight just does not suffice, just as a staircase missing the top two or
three steps would make it difficult for an individual to reach the next floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
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<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
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As for me, I personally have succeeded in pushing partners
that could easily dominate me in the ring or street and I have also been pushed
by some that may not be as successful or effective in the ring or the street.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(I am also very aware of the differences between
those two environments, but they also share many commonalities)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To be a truly brilliant Taijiquan <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>player, one ought to be effective in any
environment at any given time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve had
the privilege of having high level Taiji Masters personally illustrate their
mastery on me. Although some of the lessons I received may have been brief in
duration, they were none the less crucial in leading me to a greater understanding
of Taiji principles (and how far I am from utilizing them to their true
potential). The experiences were both physically painful, (a small price to pay
for the lessons learned) as well as totally fulfilling and enlightening.</div>
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<o:p> </o:p></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The example that epitomizes
one particular experience took place early one summer morning in Di Tan Park,
Beijing 2004.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was fortunately provided
with the unique opportunity to meet and be evaluated by Grand Master 18<sup>th</sup>
Generation Feng Zhiqiang.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Thanks to a
close friend of mine Coco Zhang) <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
results of this encounter led to an invitation to push with this Taiji legend. From
the moment the hair on my arm barely made contact with his very being, Master
Feng was controlling every aspect of my even slightest intention as well as my
breath. To this day I cannot find the words to describe the experience and the
level of his skills. The only parallel that I can draw to anyone not present
was the outcome would have been identical had I just handed him my empty shirt.
This experience was perhaps my most profound relating to the past forty-two
years in the Martial arts. The memory is consistently reincarnated every time I
push hands, grapple or spar. My sincerest thanks to him, a most generous,
humble and extraordinarily skilled master for taking the time to give me an
unknown and novice student a valuable lesson.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<o:p> </o:p></div>
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<o:p></o:p> </div>
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Back to my main, but simple point,: Due to the lack of
participation and study in a free style atmosphere <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I contend that the majority of the Taiji
players have fallen off the wagon regarding successfully becoming martial
artist. (There are also many extremely skilled Taijiquan practitioners that
have crossed over to the other side.) That is where training with a variety of partners
including those from different disciplines is as necessary as the continuation
of the aforementioned methods of training. Nothing can replace the valuable
lessons earned with free sparring or free style push hands. Once the Taiji
player enters into this type of reality practice they may also discover that
their level of fitness regarding strength and stamina may have a few flaws. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If this last step of the training is
approached with the same diligence as the previous more commonly practiced
skills, (deemed essential by most) Taijiquan as a defensive art can truly be
realized. </div>
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<o:p> </o:p></div>
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<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
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I advocate that the Taji player seek out places and martial
artists to train with from both in and out of the Taiji community.</div>
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Whether informal or formal this type of training should be
explored.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Where you gain this experience
can be anywhere from a backyards to organized competitions. </div>
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<o:p> </o:p></div>
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I have spoken to many push hand competitors here in the
states. There appears to be a common consensus that a more pragmatic setting to
test their skills beyond what is ordinarily offered by the American Push Hands
standard is needed. Most players will honestly admit even after successfully
outscoring their opponents they too were often violating basic Taiji principles
in the process. Had the rules of the competition been less restrictive they
would have been vulnerable regarding defending themselves. “Should we be saved
by rules or Taiji principles when practicing our art”?</div>
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<o:p> </o:p><o:p> </o:p></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Example Above : Common push hands mistake
shown above. The black shirt overextending himself to push an opponent.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Even if the black shirt were to be
awarded a point, he is over extended and has gone beyond his center of
balance. (He would be quite vulnerable to defend from that position)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">How do I know? The black shirt is me.
In Open Style Push Hands no point would be awarded. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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Open Style Push-hands and free sparring are a natural
progression beyond normal push hands as seen here in the states.</div>
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Spending extensive time traveling and living in China I had
the opportunity to observe a variety of push hand competitions and training
sessions (both formal and informal) and trained with many Taiji players. For
those interested I am hoping to bring open style push hands void of the many
restrictions being observed here at our domestic tournaments.</div>
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I am personally developing a new venue with a set of rules
and conditions where any martial artist can examine and compare their skills in
a fair and friendly atmosphere. </div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am by no way trying
to admonish the validity of American style push hands however I am trying to
offer what I consider to be the next natural step in training for Taijiquan
Martial Artist. This is certainly is not for everyone. Those who do choose to
engage will develop a deeper understanding of the martial side of Taiji (known <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>as Taijiquan). </div>
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It is a personal choice for every practitioner to decide
what they want from this most generous art. Although I have personally benefited
from the health and spiritual components of this art, I am intrigued by its
martial qualities and will continue to study them in great depth. In the end
for Taiji Players, it’s all good.</div>
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Whether you are a Taiji player focusing primarily on the
many health benefits or a member of the subset crossing over that line towards
martial arts, you have invested your time and efforts wisely. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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If this type of study is appealing to you or you would like
to share your opinions, contact me at Taijicenter@aol.com </div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">About the author: A practicing martial artist for over 40 years
and researcher of philosophy and health from around the world, old and new.</span></div>
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taijicenterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006354603403775475noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1898658311850359602.post-50063601866678485982012-02-17T07:32:00.000-08:002012-02-17T07:32:32.695-08:00Research: Tai Chi Classes for Seniors<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 18pt;">New Research Regarding</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 18pt;">Tai Chi / Taiji Classes for Seniors</span></b> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial;">Steve Contes</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial;">New Port </span></b><place><city><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial;">Richey</span></b></city><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial;"> </span></b><state><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial;">FL.</span></b></state></place><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial;"></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Once again I refer to some additional research conducted by<b> </b></span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial;">Fuzhong Li, Ph.D. of the Oregon Research Institute, and colleagues. The research piece can be found below my brief introduction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt;">Introduction</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial;">I have personally seen my Senior Students greatly improve their strength, balance, energy levels, flexibility, coordination, and overall health <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(physical and mental)</i> with a steady diet of Tai Chi in their weekly schedules. It also provides a social atmosphere where students can make new friends, share common interests and often develop new ones.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I sincerely hope that the type of research presently available encourages the Senior population to get out there and see for themselves how Taiji can enrich their lives. No matter what you perceive your present physical condition or state of health, you can engage in the practice of Taiji. I also caution potential students to train only with a qualified Taiji Instructor. If you have any questions on how to go about the task of locating one, contact me directly and I will try my best to assist you in your search <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(where ever you are residing)</i>. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As I said in the last blog (</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #993300; font-family: Arial;">Tai Chi as<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Treatment for Parkinson’s</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial;">) I am extremely appreciative of Fuzhong Li Ph.D.and his colleagues for all their efforts and also willingness to share their findings regarding how Taiji (Tai Chi)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>can benefit those addressing issues associated with aging or any other health complications.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://ejmas.com/pt/" target="_top"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 24pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">P</span><span style="color: #993300;">hysical </span><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 24pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">T</span><span style="color: #993300;">raining</span></a> Jan 2002</span></b><span style="color: black;"> <br />
</span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 1; text-align: center;"><street><address><b><span style="color: #ff6600; font-size: 24pt; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">Tai Chi Good Way</span></b></address></street><b><span style="color: #ff6600; font-size: 24pt; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"> For Elderly People To Return To Exercise</span></b><b><span style="color: black; font-size: 24pt; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;">The low-impact Chinese exercise, Tai Chi, can help older people regain some of the physical functioning that they may have lost to inactivity, according to a new study. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: #993300;">Seniors taking Tai Chi classes reported better physical functioning both at the three-month midpoint and the six-month end of the pilot study, says Fuzhong Li, Ph.D., of the Oregon Research Institute, and colleagues. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: #993300;">The study included 72 people between the ages of 65 and 96 who were split into a group that went to an hour-long class twice a week for six months and a control group that was promised a four-week class at the end of the study. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: #993300;">"We found significant improvements within three months on a low-intensity program conducted twice a week. Our results also showed improved benefits from six months of participation, suggesting that additional health gains can be derived from a longer period of participation," the researchers say. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: #993300;">The study is published in the May issue of the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Annals of Behavioral Medicine.</b> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: #993300;">They contrast this with previous research on exercise programs that suggests much longer periods are needed to show significant improvements in functioning. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: #993300;">On completion of the study, the Tai Chi students were also twice as likely as the control group to report not being limited in their ability to perform moderate-to-vigorous activities. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: #993300;">In comparison to previous research, which shows that half of sedentary people are unable to maintain a newly adopted exercise program, these findings were also unique in that only 18 percent of participants dropped out of the Tai Chi class. The researchers suggest Tai Chi may offer a particularly attractive form of fitness activity for this population. Members of the classes described the lessons as a positive experience with wide ranging benefits that both energized and relaxed them. They felt it had helped them build better flexibility, balance and strength. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: #993300;">The researchers did note that since the study recruited volunteers for the study, the participants may have been more motivated than other sedentary elderly people to exercise. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: #993300;">The study cost approximately $9,000. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: #993300;">Through grants from the National Institute on Aging, the researchers are continuing their examination of the effects of Tai Chi on seniors' health outcomes, such as falls, physical ability and long-term health behaviors. </span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #993300;"><hr align="center" size="3" width="100%" /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;"><br />
</span><i><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 10pt;">Annals of Behavioral Medicine is the official peer-reviewed publication of The Society of Behavioral Medicine. For information about the journal, contact Robert Kaplan, PhD, (858) 534-6058. For copies of the article, contact the Center for the Advancement of Health at 202.387.2829 or e-mail press@cfah.org</span></i><span style="color: #993300;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><i><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 10pt;">Center for the Advancement of Health Contact: Ira R. Allen Director of Public Affairs 202.387.2829 press@cfah.org</span></i><span style="color: #993300;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><i><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 10pt;">Contact: Fuzhong Li, Ph.D. (541) 484-2123 (ext. 2137) fuzhongl@ori.org</span></i><span style="color: #993300;"> </span><i><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 10pt;"> or</span></i><span style="color: #993300;"> </span><i><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 10pt;">John Fisher (541) 484-2123 (ext. 2228) fisherj@ori.org</span></i><span style="color: #993300;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div>taijicenterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006354603403775475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1898658311850359602.post-55840931465067252482012-02-14T18:08:00.000-08:002012-02-14T18:15:34.918-08:00Tai Chi (Taiji) as a Treatment for Parkinson’s<div class="authors" style="margin: auto 0in;"><span style="font-size: 22pt;">Tai Chi (Taiji) as a Treatment for Parkinson’s</span></div><div class="authors" style="margin: auto 0in;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Written by Steve Contes</span><span style="font-size: 22pt;"> / <span style="font-size: small;">FL based Tai Chi instructor</span>. </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">(I am not a doctor nor am I a professional in any medical field)</span></i><br />
</div><div class="authors" style="margin: auto 0in;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><strong>The New England Journal of Medicine recently posted some interesting research which prompted me to write this article and share their findings.</strong></span><br />
</div><div class="authors" style="margin: auto 0in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(My personal beliefs are that not only does Taiji aid in the physical aspects of this disease, but it is also a potent tool to ease the mental and emotional states often associated with Parkinson’s and many other diseases. This article and related research focuses on the physical challenges as related to Parkinson’s)</i><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong>Taiji is no longer shrouded in mystery for those seeking to understand this eastern-based art.</strong></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">That also includes the western Medical World. Thanks to the efforts of Doctors such as Fuzhong Li, Ph.D, Dr Yang Yang and many others we are now seeing the long awaited marriage of Eastern and Western philosophies regarding health. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe in my optimistic state of mind I’m jumping the gun, so let me rephrase the above statement. “The engagement announcement of Eastern and Western philosophies regarding health”. It seems that we still have a ways to go. You might say that the parents of this couple have more than a few hurtles in front of them and they are not exactly holding their glasses high and toasting one and other (yet). <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, they are beginning to understand each other better and actually agreeing on certain concepts (or sitting in the same room so to speak). One of those being Taiji as a viable tool for treating some of the diseases that continue to challenge western medicine. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The New England Journal of Medicine is no stranger to controversy related to what they will publish. It is certainly not always in accordance with typical western medicine’s way of thinking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Last week an article was published based on the works of<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fuzhong Li, Ph.D., Peter Harmer, Ph.D., M.P.H., Kathleen Fitzgerald, M.D., Elizabeth Eckstrom, M.D., M.P.H., Ronald Stock, M.D., Johnny Galver, P.T., Gianni Maddalozzo, Ph.D., and Sara S. Batya, M.D.</div><div class="citationline" style="margin: auto 0in;"><place><span class="citation"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">N England</b></span></place><span class="citation"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Journal <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Medicine <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>2012; 366:511-519 <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://www.nejm.org/toc/nejm/366/6/"><span style="color: blue;">February 9, 2012</span></a></b></div><div class="citationline" style="margin: auto 0in;">I commend them and greatly appreciate the efforts of <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fuzhong Li, Ph.D and his colleagues. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also with his permission I present to you a condensed version of their report including their conclusion as posted on the site of The New England Journal of Medicine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="citationline" style="margin: auto 0in;"><br />
</div><h1 style="margin: auto 0in;"><span style="color: #993300;">Tai Chi and Postural Stability in Patients with Parkinson's Disease</span></h1><h3 style="margin: 12pt 0in 3pt;"><span style="color: #993300;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Background</span></span></h3><span style="color: #993300;">Patients with Parkinson's disease have substantially impaired balance, leading to diminished functional ability and an increased risk of falling. Although exercise is routinely encouraged by health care providers, few programs have been proven effective.</span><br />
<h3 style="margin: 12pt 0in 3pt;"><span style="color: #993300;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Methods</span></span></h3><span style="color: #993300;">We conducted a randomized, controlled trial to determine whether a tailored tai chi program could improve postural control in patients with idiopathic Parkinson's disease. We randomly assigned 195 patients with stage 1 to 4 disease on the Hoehn and Yahr staging scale (which ranges from 1 to 5, with higher stages indicating more severe disease) to one of three groups: tai chi, resistance training, or stretching. The patients participated in 60-minute exercise sessions twice weekly for 24 weeks. The primary outcomes were changes from baseline in the limits-of-stability test (maximum excursion and directional control; range, 0 to 100%). Secondary outcomes included measures of gait and strength, scores on functional-reach and timed up-and-go tests, motor scores on the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale, and number of falls.</span><br />
<h3 style="margin: 12pt 0in 3pt;"><span style="color: #993300;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Results</span></span></h3><span style="color: #993300;">The tai chi group performed consistently better than the resistance-training and stretching groups in maximum excursion (between-group difference in the change from baseline, 5.55 percentage points; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.12 to 9.97; and 11.98 percentage points; 95% CI, 7.21 to 16.74, respectively) and in directional control (10.45 percentage points; 95% CI, 3.89 to 17.00; and 11.38 percentage points; 95% CI, 5.50 to 17.27, respectively). The tai chi group also performed better than the stretching group in all secondary outcomes and outperformed the resistance-training group in stride length and functional reach. Tai chi lowered the incidence of falls as compared with stretching but not as compared with resistance training. The effects of tai chi training were maintained at 3 months after the intervention. No serious adverse events were observed.</span><br />
<h3 style="margin: 12pt 0in 3pt;"><span style="color: #993300;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Conclusions</span></span></h3><span style="color: #993300;">Tai chi training appears to reduce balance impairments in patients with mild-to-moderate Parkinson's disease, with additional benefits of improved functional capacity and reduced falls. (Funded by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke; ClinicalTrials.gov number, <a href="http://clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT00611481" target="url"><span style="color: #993300;">NCT00611481</span></a>.)</span><br />
<span style="color: #993300;">Supported by a grant (NS047130) from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.</span><br />
<span style="color: #993300;"><a href="http://www.nejm.org/doi/suppl/10.1056/NEJMoa1107911/suppl_file/nejmoa1107911_disclosures.pdf"><span style="color: #993300;">Disclosure forms</span></a> provided by the authors are available with the full text of this article at NEJM.org.</span><br />
<span style="color: #993300;">No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.</span><br />
<span style="color: #993300;">We thank all the study participants (in Eugene, Corvallis, Salem, and Portland) for their support and dedication to this research project; the neurologists for providing medical clearance and Parkinson's disease stage diagnoses for their participating patients; the project instructors (Vicki Anderson, Denise Thomas-Morrow, Don Hildenbrand, Brian McCall, James Lusk, Nancy Nelson, Teena Hall, Machiko Shirai, and Julie Tye); the research assistants (Debbie Blanchard, Kristen Briggs, Ruben Guzman, Daehan Kim, Lisa Marion, Arissa Fitch-Martin, Kimber Mattox, Julia Mazur, Donna McElroy, Jordyn Smith, and Rachel Tsolinas); the physical therapists (Andrea Serdar, Jeff Schlimgen, Jennifer Wilhelm, Ryan Rockwood, and Connie Amos at Oregon Health and Science University); the study data analyst, Shanshan Wang; Kathryn Madden and the members of the institutional review board at the Oregon Research Institute for their careful scrutiny of the study protocol; and Ron Renchler for proofreading earlier drafts of the manuscript.</span><br />
<h3 style="margin: 12pt 0in 3pt;"><span style="color: #993300;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Source Information</span></span></h3><span style="color: #993300;">From the Oregon Research Institute (F.L.), the Oregon Medical Group (K.F.), and the PeaceHealth Medical Group–Oregon (R.S.) — all in Eugene; Willamette University (P.H.) and BPM Physical Therapy Center (J.G.) — both in Salem, OR; Oregon Health and Science University, Portland (E.E.); Oregon State University, Corvallis (G.M.); and Oregon Neurology Associates, Springfield (S.S.B.).</span><br />
<span style="color: #993300;">Address reprint requests to Dr. Li at the Oregon Research Institute, </span><br />
<address><street><span style="color: #993300;">1715 Franklin Blvd.</span></street><span style="color: #993300;">, </span><city><span style="color: #993300;">Eugene</span></city><span style="color: #993300;">, </span><state><span style="color: #993300;">OR</span></state><span style="color: #993300;"> </span><postalcode><span style="color: #993300;">97403</span></postalcode></address><span style="color: #993300;">, or at </span><a href="mailto:fuzhongl@ori.org"><span style="color: blue;">fuzhongl@ori.org</span></a>. <br />
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</div>taijicenterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006354603403775475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1898658311850359602.post-18408814437390233792012-01-28T05:19:00.000-08:002012-01-28T05:23:37.737-08:00Guest Author: UK Based Martial Artist Ben Lee - contact him at BenLeeKarate@aol.co.uk.<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none;"><i><u><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-large;">What is the meaning of kumite?</span></u></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Guest Author: UK Based Martial Artist Ben Lee </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">What is kumite/sparring in karate ?, A competition between two students,A brawl or an ego booster?</span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">If you think about it for a second you will find the answer is not as clear as it would seem to be.</span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">When in a class practicing martial arts the person with the biggest ego is usually the one that is least liked by the rest of the group, A person who tries to win in sparring at any cost and make you look silly.In a real confrontation winning at any cost may be a good idea but when you are sparring this is not the case.</span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">A brawl is not the answer, as sparring/kumite is a chance to hone our skills, perfect techniques using the best form possible.If we are brawling our technique will go out of the window and the techniques that we work so hard to perfect become worthless, Nothing more than a whirlwind of strikes.</span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">When in a Dojo/training hall, we are all trying to learn.Speeding up the techniques in sparring and 'going at it' is great now and again. We should aim to help each other,get the techniques right and keep a feeling of courtesy towards each other.</span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Alot can be learned from practicing kumite, outside of pain.Rhythm,distance and timing to mention a few. Another is learning to harmonize with your opponent, to be as one. When he moves, you move simultaneously, flowing with him.</span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Picking up on an opponents intent to strike is a big step towards harmonizing with your opponent.</span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">This is not a supernatural skill and is fully achievable.Just think of animals,for example;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you try to sneak up on a bird, even if it is looking the opposite way, the bird will still fly away before you catch it.</span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Shigeru Egami ( a direct student of master Funakoshi) gave three different methods for developing the skill of picking up on an opponents intent in his book 'the way of karate, beyond technique', well worth a read if you have not already.</span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">These Methods were as follows;</span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">In Kihon or during kata practice and performing each movement to a command, begin to try and pick up on the intention of your instructor to shout the command.So if you do this correctly you should already be in motion, when the command is given and finish your technique when the command ends.To do this you should try to clear your mind, keeping it empty, relax as the more you tense and wait for the 'feeling' the slower you will be.When you get the feeling that a command will be given go with it.Work at this and you will get better and better.</span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">The next method will require you to work with a partner.You and your partner face each other with enough distance between you, so that when a stepping punch is performed you are not close enough to hit each other. Take it in turns, One performing a stepping punch,one stepping back and blocking. The person punching, will change the timing between each punch,as well as changing the speed of the punch.Who ever is striking must concentrate there intent on hitting there partner,so as to give him something to pick up on. If you can turn intent on,you can also turn it off which is always helpful.The blocker should move in harmony with the person performing the strike.Moving simultaneously. When both of you start the feel comfortable with this, move closer, so that if a strike were thrown and no block was performed, it would impact.Repeat the same exercise again at this distance.Remember this is not a contest,you will not make much progress if you are concerned with winning.As master Egami say's 'overconfidence will come from winning,shame and the urge to act recklessly from losing.</span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">The final method In master Egami's book was to learn to pick up an opponents intent, with your back to him. Again you will need a partner.One punching, the other moving out of the way. If your partner is punching you will have your back to him.When you feel him punching step forward out of his reach. So the person striking will vary the speed of his punch and the timing between each strike.This exercise will also contribute to concentration. Remember when performing these methods stay relax, keep your mind clear and go with your instincts.</span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">There are other methods for developing the ability to pick up on an opponents intent but I will save these for another time.My instructor Sensei John Lovatt can pick up on an opponents intention through a brick wall.When an opponent throws a punch from the opposite side of a wall, my sensei moves simultaneously and blocks.</span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">To me mastery of kumite in any martial art is learning to harmonize and be as one with your opponent.Picking up on intention will take you a step closer to this.Please feel free to email regarding any opinions,queries or thoughts on this subject and I will be happy to help.You can email me on BenLeeKarate@aol.co.uk.</span> </span></div>taijicenterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006354603403775475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1898658311850359602.post-86065288557991163712012-01-26T13:03:00.000-08:002012-01-26T13:03:56.063-08:00Taiji The Art of Living Life at its Full Potential<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpFJKnzfQpYJyBAZ8EFhencf2VQkO-cpFnJwnhAdha57-B_GQ9oe7YjHG68Wy6ODmiyiNFUPeSW6xo6Yocm5MjkOCMekKF2RrxKHmMrp0bWa77umvobB34VmRuL9huaK7IngZtpBGWVI8/s1600/Taichilogo2008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpFJKnzfQpYJyBAZ8EFhencf2VQkO-cpFnJwnhAdha57-B_GQ9oe7YjHG68Wy6ODmiyiNFUPeSW6xo6Yocm5MjkOCMekKF2RrxKHmMrp0bWa77umvobB34VmRuL9huaK7IngZtpBGWVI8/s200/Taichilogo2008.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taiji not just for Martial Artists. Not just for the elderly. </td></tr>
</tbody></table> <h1 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </h1><h1 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </h1><h1 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </h1><h1 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </h1><h1 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </h1><h1 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Taiji, The Art of </h1><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 24pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Living Life at its full Potential.</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="color: orange;">Dedicated to the study of Health (in every aspect) and the quality of life regardless of age or perceived condition. I believe that anyone can be <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Healthier</b> tomorrow (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">compared to their level of health today</i>). Even if you are dealing with health (physical or mental, which are often itertwined ) issues, some aspects of your life can be improved. Health is not solely based on your present physical condition.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a combination of the mental and physical states working in harmony as efficient as possible. Any flaws in either will affect your success. Physical flaws are not just ailments or conditions, they are a result of not being able to deal with adversity (physical or mental) properly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These two aspects of health must cooperate with one and other and not oppose each other. If Optimum Health meant perfection on both levels separately, it could never be achieved. What Optimum Health represents is the perfect unison of the two.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Perhaps that is the greatest gift Taiji has to offer.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="color: orange;">These two aspects combined with your own spirituality will make you whole and allow you to live your life to its full potential. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="color: orange;">The end result is one who possesses the discipline and strength to change what he/she can and endure what they cannot while still appreciating the beauty of life itself. <span style="color: maroon;"></span></span></span></div>taijicenterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006354603403775475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1898658311850359602.post-68624135792900171712011-08-14T16:47:00.000-07:002011-08-14T16:49:51.789-07:00Martial Arts and Philosophy Writers Wanted<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">This is an invitation for any writer of Martial Arts or Philosophical material to submit articles for this blog and an upcoming book to be published soon. This is a chance to share your views on a variety of subjects related to the above request. <em>(Writers will not receive any compensation for their articles.) </em>I am an avid researcher of both the <strong>Martial Arts</strong> and <strong>Philosopy</strong>. In the event that any profit is gained from this book all proceeds will go to St. Jude Children's <place><placename>Research</placename> <placetype>Hospital</placetype></place>. You needn't be a professional writer, <em>(I certainly am not)</em> you just need to have a passion for the subjects aforementioned. I will try to include as many articles as possible.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">If you have any questions, feel free to contact me through this blog. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I look forward to your input.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Thanks,</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Steve</div>taijicenterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006354603403775475noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1898658311850359602.post-63940197821594358912011-06-19T08:28:00.000-07:002011-06-29T07:49:58.617-07:00Demystifying and Revealing the Truth on how Taijiquan Works - Part 2<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-size: 16pt;">(Please read part 1 first - from April 2011)</span></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimHgowk_sY1YThjm8mtyGS0ifTTe00_C5uCn2q3okV7ijCfIv-vLxvmge0OCanWYc8TC99p5-LDbk3GavUhmJGfdCBjekfNpwUhAPvX18k9Td0lOINN3RTFefh3-tftkpEi_SS20KaJhQ/s1600/s4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; height: 171px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; width: 182px;"><img border="0" height="187" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimHgowk_sY1YThjm8mtyGS0ifTTe00_C5uCn2q3okV7ijCfIv-vLxvmge0OCanWYc8TC99p5-LDbk3GavUhmJGfdCBjekfNpwUhAPvX18k9Td0lOINN3RTFefh3-tftkpEi_SS20KaJhQ/s200/s4.jpg" width="200" /></a></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 18pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Part 2</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; tab-stops: right 6.0in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How does the Taijiquan Artist develop the necessary skills?<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">First</b> through standing (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">meditation</i>) exercises to teach stability and balance in a fixed position. Both a relaxed mind and a relaxed but properly structured body, while maintaining the body’s center of balance (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">equilibrium)</i> are necessary. Focusing on proper breathing comes once the body is trained to stand in an naturally aligned position with the back straight, tailbone pointing down and the head feeling like it is suspended by a string pulling up from the crown carrying its weight and all the while maintaining the maximum amount of relaxation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Total awareness and control of the entire body, its root into the ground and its center need to be accomplished before moving on. One of the natural methods of abdominal breathing used in Taiji<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>is referred to as reverse breathing. This become an essential part of the <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>standing exercise which leads to a calm and clear mind as well as a higher level of a relaxed, but neither limp nor lethargic stance. It is also a very natural and efficient way to breathe, better oxygenating the blood and massaging the internal organs in the abdominal region, along with the ability to produce more force as you exhale when needed for the martial artist.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="background: silver; color: #993300; font-size: 14pt; mso-highlight: silver;">Picture<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">-(<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Reverse breathing involves the expelling of air while expanding the lower abdominal region downward and out. </i></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="background: silver; color: #993300; font-size: 14pt; mso-highlight: silver;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If this seems unnatural to you, try exhaling rapidly and saying the word </span></i></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><u><span style="background: silver; color: #993300; font-size: 18pt; mso-highlight: silver;">ha, </span></u></i></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="background: silver; color: #993300; font-size: 14pt; mso-highlight: silver;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(exhaling through your mouth) with your hand on your lower abdominal region. Follow by inhaling in which the lower abdominal region pulls back in using more diaphragm.</span></i></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="background: silver; color: #993300; font-size: 14pt; mso-highlight: silver;">(note when done slowly, breathe in and out through the nose-when done quickly to emit force breathe out through the mouth.</span></i></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="background: silver; color: #993300; font-size: 14pt; mso-highlight: silver;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is important to avoid shallow breathing which uses more intercostals muscles to expand the chest which causes improper ventilation of the lower lobes in the lungs.</span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">)</span></i><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;"> <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="background: silver; mso-highlight: silver;"></span></i></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: 14pt;">Master/Dr Kam Lee’s detailed explanation:</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #2d2cfa; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">General breathing can be categorized into 2 kinds:</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #2d2cfa; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">1. Shallow breathing - Not preferable</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #2d2cfa; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">2. Deep or Abdominal Breathing - Preferable (Bringing in more oxygen, etc)</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #2d2cfa; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Abdominal Breathing when used to nourish our qi (ex: meditation, sleeping, daily movements) can be called, "Natural Breathing" as we don't have to think too much about it. It can happen naturally after you are trained to do it. Doesn't take long.</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #2d2cfa; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">3. Abdominal breathing when used to express our qi or jin or when power is used, can be called Reversed Breath, which the abdominal muscle groups work the opposite way to Natural Breathing. It stresses the muscle and uses more qi. However when expressed softly or slowly it is a very good method to enhance our qi without expending it so much as in Fajin. If you fajin a lot you can get tired easily if your qi is insufficient.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: #2d2cfa;">Yin Natural Breathing Stillness Relax state of qi Nourishing Jin Uses abdominal (Dantian)</span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: #2d2cfa; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">Yang Reverse Breathing Movement Higher state of qi Uses Jin (Fajin) Uses abdominal (Dantian)</span></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: #2d2cfa; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">Both breathing methods are neither limp nor lethargic. Both can attain a calm and clear state of mind. When done slow (beginner's meditation) natural breathing is preferable. When fajin or expressing jin in martial applications, reversed breath is preferable</span></span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: #2d2cfa; font-family: Arial; font-size: 8.5pt;">.</span></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: #2d2cfa; font-family: ""Times New Roman""; font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Both are natural and efficient depending on use. Reverse breathing is a plus for martial artist.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Deep abdominal breathing involves breathing in the air by contracting the diaphragm and expanding the lungs to its full capacity, starting from the lower lobes. The contraction of the diaphragm compresses the organs especially the intestines downwards and at the same time expanding the lungs to its full capacity. This can be done only when the body muscles especially the abdominals are in a relax state. Not knowing how to breathe properly builds tension in the abdominal and mid body thus inhibiting good circulation and proper function of qi. Abdominal breathing encourages all movements internally and promotes good health.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">Harmony is <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>now present between the body and mind and true balance is <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>achieved. The mind’s ability to see, sense, feel and respond reaches an elevated level. (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I personally recommend sitting Wuji meditation in conjunction with standing meditation. Although the have many common benefits they are also unique in their own ways. For more information on this please see Dr Yang Yang’s book, Taijiquan - That Art of Nurturing, The Science of Power)</i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 18pt;">Forms and movement</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Stage two</b> of training is maintaining your center and applying the same principles as in the standing exercise, but with movement. Spiraling movement exercises and forms practice accomplish this task. Total awareness of every point of the body must be realized and all movements must be connected. No individual body part should act independently. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(Movement resembles a system of smooth moving cogs as seen in a Swiss watch; each cog has its own important job and cannot be done without.)</i> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">At the advanced level of this stage the practitioner will incorporate some fast movements and the releasing of power in a variety of positions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Weapons’ training in this phase is also important for the basic development of strength and control even if the thought of practicality is not a consideration. To study the variety of weapons offered from short to long and light to heavy while keeping in line with all of the other principles completes this stage and also helps to improve empty hand forms. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 18pt;">Push Hands</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">The third stage</span></b><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;"> is still maintaining your body’s center and all of the above mentioned requirements while an outside source <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(partner) </i>tries to disturb your high level of control and balance. Here is where the following of your opponent’s movements, redirecting of his force and controlling his center of balance is studied. We call this phase <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">push-hands</b> because of the continued contact you have with your training partner. But that term does not paint the true picture of this training method. Here in the later stages of Push-hands a higher level of sensitivity and understanding on how the movements apply to self-defense become visible. Joint manipulation is also studied at this stage. Reactions become both spontaneous and natural. At this point along with the health benefits manifested from proper practice the Martial aspects are beginning to materialize. Through proper training of all three phases your body will develop the needed attributes both internally and externally. However by no means does the training stop. This is the true beginning in the process of mastering Taijiquan. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Perhaps the most important aspect of this phase is that it is a platform where one can experiment and discover his/ her flaws regarding all the governing Taijiquan principles. All three phases must constantly be practiced to keep the body and mind tuned like a fine machine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Neglecting any one of the training methods would be like removing one leg from a tripod. You would be left with a tool that could never function properly. From the first to the third stage is like building a house from the ground up. If proper attention is not paid to the foundation, the house will never be of a sound structure</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">You can now begin to understand teaching the body to move and react in this natural way is not nearly as difficult as unlearning all of <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the counter-productive ways of moving incorrectly that we have accumulated over the years. (Especially the over tightening of unneeded muscles and joints.) </span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If your goal is strictly health, continue working on the above and you will find success. But there is much more that Taijiquan can offer to the Martial Artist to enhance their skills. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>People often ask, “If Taijiquan is so effective why don’t we see more practical examples in the Martial Art world?” This requires a brief look at Chinese history. The answers lie in the not so distant past <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(100 years or so)</i> when it was still being used as a combat art. Like all things it has evolved and changed over the years. That’s why no art is truly 100% traditional. Every martial art must change over time to accommodate the changing environment in which it exists. During </span><country-region><place><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">China</span></place></country-region><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">’s Cultural Revolution the practice of this and many other martial arts were prohibited by the government.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Devoted Taijiquan practitioners had to train in secrecy. Many were caught and punished, but they still persevered through this most difficult time and both preserved and passed down their family art. Taijiquan is certainly not the only martial art to suffer this hardship.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was only when the art resurfaced publicly following a 1978 endorsement from Deng Xiaoping <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(</i></span><country-region><place><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">China</span></i></place></country-region><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">’s leader at that time)</span></i><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;"> stating “Taijiquan is good”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After that period Taiji was often taught as an art focusing more for its health benefits. The martial art aspect was watered down and furthermore <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>was also not even understood by many teachers. Hence the term Taiji with out the quan(fist). Taijiquan loosely translates to Grand Ultimate Fist. Also like many Chinese Gungfu styles, Masters were leery of passing on all of their knowledge publicly and carefully chose only the worthiest of students to have access to the complete art. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><place><placename><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">Chen</span></placename><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;"> </span><placetype><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">Village</span></placetype></place><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;"> still remained quite isolated and with a somewhat closed door attitude regarding sharing their family art. Other more popular forms of Taiji (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">such as Yang Style</i>) were practiced by many, but few trained the martial aspects. Taiji developed a reputation as a slow moving exercise for the elderly. Most players at that time were never exposed to the martial art side of Taiji. That method of Taiji practice became and still is quite popular today.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">Presently Chen Taijiquan is being taught openly throughout the world.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">The martial art aspects are once again becoming an important part of the training for those who desire. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">Another factor is more universal and can apply to all Martial Arts. Equally important to studying a practical and suitable art is the student’s personal attitude. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">Three classes a week at your local Martial Arts school does not make a master. Any art being practiced by a student without diligence, dedication and perseverance will never truly manifest itself in that student. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If any viable art fails to produce the desired results, first look at the student and his or her teacher. You will find the root of its inadequacies. Taijiquan is no exception. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">For those students electing to focus only on the health aspects, you have still been exposed to some martial benefits. While you should now experience a higher level of health you still shouldn’t consider yourself a martial artist and that is also acceptable for a practitioner. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For those pursuing Taijiquan in its most complete form including the Martial Art aspects (read on).</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">The last crucial steps which are often overlooked, involve putting it all together in the proper environment. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">The knowledge gained from the above three stages does not a Martial Artist make. How you gain the practical experience to use these tools requires sparring and training with partners of all sizes and from many other disciplines including other grappling arts. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(Taijiquan does deal with all ranges of combat.)</i> Without this reality training you will not be a complete martial artist and won’t develop the real skills needed for survival in self-defense or combat. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">A common misconception of Taijiquan among many of its own followers is that they do not need the sparring stage for the development of fighting skills. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">In my opinion, this could not be further from the truth. Let us not kid ourselves; this is why many practitioners can’t use Taijiquan as a reality based self-defense art. Even those that attain an advanced skill level in push-hands must move on to sparring under a variety of conditions. Also at this time if the practitioner has not incorporated bag training and striking pads into the mix he should. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">The last factor we will discuss depends on the individual. If all of the three stages mentioned above are practiced with great effort and determination</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">the Taiji player should enjoy a great deal of endurance and strength. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If he is lacking in these areas he must address this problem with additional cardio and strength training exercises. For endurance, more forms, running, sprinting, jumping rope etc…</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">By strength training I don’t mean typical weight lifting or body building routines which often tightens not only muscles, but ligaments and tendons</span><span style="color: #993366; font-size: 14pt;">. </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">(The results of these types of training will become counter-productive. I learned this the hard way.</span></i><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">) <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Muscles ligaments and tendons that are too tight prohibit the fluidity needed to transfer force through the body when striking They also inhibit the higher level of sensitivity required for blending and redirecting incoming force. Lastly they allow your joints ligaments, tendons and muscles to be manipulated and controlled more easily by your opponent (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">due to their limited range of motion and <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>flexibility</i>).</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">However additional use of the weapons and basic bodyweight exercises such as pull-ups, chin-ups, dips, push-ups etc… using <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>your own body weight along with some resistance exercises <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>can complete the strength training aspect of the overall program. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">I am not expecting to see Taiji in the MMA world in the very near future, but I will say it could be effective even under those conditions. Even though Taijiquan’s martial skills are usually thought to require years of practice to become effective, this is certainly not accurate. It depends on the student and the teacher he studies with. As far as the art itself goes, many people have not witnessed Taijiquan at its higher levels so they condemn the validity of its martial efficiency. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you put me on the track in Daytona with the best race car available, I will still lose the race. You can’t blame the car. You can blame me the driver for not showing the true capabilities of a superbly designed piece of engineering. Taijiquan is that</span> <span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">superbly designed piece of engineering. The same goes for a master craftsman’s tools. In the wrong hands the tools are useless.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the body of a well trained technician Taijiquan’s full potential become evident.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;">What I do recommend for my fellow Martial Artists, keep an open mind and explore the possibilities that Taijiquan has to offer and the option to at least cross-train into this misunderstood art. It may help you further develop your existing skills. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <span style="color: red;"><em>(Visit my Youtube Channel at Taijistevie to see some strength/endurance training ideas)</em></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: red;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-family: Arial;">In conclusion, I would say, unlike other effective martial arts which try to mold the body into a moving in a new manner and then training the muscle memory to follow, Taijiquan calls for the purging and un-learning of the body’s bad habits, those habits that it has conformed to over the years. It returns the individual to a more natural and harmonious way where mind and body form the perfect partnership. </span><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-family: Arial;">Being that Taijiquan does not require the novice student to possess any great athletic attributes such as strength and speed, anyone can become proficient. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-family: Arial;">Taijiquan certainly does not hold exclusive rights to the principles discussed in this article, it just emphasizes them. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We don’t concentrate on learning hundreds of techniques. We just learn to react naturally. Sorry to disappoint those looking for something more mystical or magical. There is nothing here other than the natural laws of physics and using them efficiently in a way that is natural for each individual, but not exactly the same way for every individual. This includes applying them to different degrees depending on such factors as the individual’s abilities, body type, and his or her (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">physical and mental</i>) strengths and weaknesses.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-family: Arial;">The results of proper Taijiquan practice could certainly compliment any style you train with.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-family: Arial;">I don’t claim any expertise in Taiji, but it has given me plenty as a martial artist and even more as a human being. I apply the Taiji Philosophy to every aspect of my life.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="background: yellow; color: #993300; font-family: Arial; mso-highlight: yellow;">Taijiquan has stood the test of time because many things change, but the laws of nature which it rests on remain constant. That being said we must understand that what seemed natural for me yesterday may not seem natural for me tomorrow and that is due to the laws of nature. So within Taiji we appear to have contradictions and that to is only natural, however Taiji has also taught me how to deal with that.</span><span style="color: #993300; font-family: Arial;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #993300; font-family: Arial;">(I haven’t even needed to use the word qi (ki-in Japanese) once to describe Taijiquan.)</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-family: Arial;">Contact me if you have any questions or comments. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div>taijicenterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006354603403775475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1898658311850359602.post-62409734514988997142011-04-28T16:15:00.000-07:002012-05-22T18:41:38.647-07:00My Bio<div style="border: currentColor;">
<span style="clear: left; color: #343635; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><b>Steve Contes</b>, instructor and founder of the Taiji Center began his martial arts training in 1970. For the first 20 years he studied a variety of martial arts, qi-gong, health, nutrition, fitness, philosophy and meditation. He then decided to focus on a practical form of self-defense combining principles from all the above mentioned. He had also come to realize that in order to train in a complete system, all enemies must be understood. The most often overlooked and greatest enemy we must face is found within. If we are to learn how to protect ourselves, then this must be the starting point. Martial art technique makes us strong on the outside, meditation protects us on the inside. <br />
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The latter proved to be a more important aspect of self defense. It includes but is not limited to relieving stress, teaching us how to overcome obstacles in life and even strengthening our mind and our immune system; all of which promotes overall health. The end results are a better quality of life and a more harmonious way of living. <br />
<img border="0" height="211" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCO555TqvAJoIgwMYg0b7j2VkMR6VShMSE62QATBMbPtZX7uZEUvKwA9lWY7Tw2RisMteSmlJC0MtXAIB5yJQAovbGyGKit6znHNehGoOTVwQt3pWKrc00ILMMo7x7Hqsq3DfNRLvejn0/s320/training+%252819%2529.jpg" width="320" /><br />
The above ideas were organized in to a system of teaching now known as <b>JO-JONG-PAI</b>. As the system evolved the key ingredients began to rely on proper <b>Taiji training</b>. Taiji already addressed the proper balance between both inner and outer strengths. </span><span style="color: #343635;"><em><b>The true Taiji philosophy exemplifies all of the above ideas. For the dedicated student it can be one of the most direct methods to achieving your true potential as a complete martial artist.</b> </em><br />
This is not to say that this is the only path to take, but it is a path that should be explored. Taiji training is offered to all that wish.</span><span style="color: #660808;"> </span></div>
<span style="color: red;"><b>Your present level of health whatever that may be can be improved with proper training. No matter what you perceive your personal limitations</b> </span><span style="color: red;"><strong>Taiji offers something for all. </strong></span><span style="color: #353232;">Taiji is often misrepresented around the world to be just a slow moving exercise for the elderly. This could not be further from the truth. Our mission is to provide accurate instruction, information and also the true history of this art and it's evolution into the modern world.</span><span style="color: #353232; font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 18px;"><span style="color: #353232;">For the past 20 years Steve's focus has become a concentrated effort to understand Taiji as the complete art it really is. This includes regular trips to Chen Village, China and training with </span><b><span style="color: #660808;"><span style="color: red;">Master Zhu Tiancai</span><span style="color: #353232;"> (19th generation) of Chen Village and </span><b><span style="color: red;">Master Kam Lee</span></b> </span><span style="color: #353232;">(20th generation) of Florida. Steve follows the Chenjiagou (Chen) Style Taiji curriculum established by Master Zhu Tiancai and Master Kam Lee.</span></b><span style="color: #353232;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-size: 18px;"><span style="color: #660808; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;"><span style="color: #353232;">He has also attended workshops with many Masters, such as <span style="color: red;"><strong>Zhu Xiang Hua,</strong></span> </span><span style="color: red;"><strong><span style="font-size: 18px;">Chen Zheng Lei</span>, <span style="font-size: 18px;">Chen Xiao Wang</span>, <span style="font-size: 18px;">Chen Bing, William CC Chen, Dr.Yang Yang, Yang Zhenduo, Yang Zhun and Master Liu of Shandong</span>. </strong></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 22px;"><span style="font-size: 24px;"><span style="font-size: 22px;"><span style="font-size: 22px;"><span style="font-size: 22px;"><span style="font-size: 22px;"><span style="font-size: 22px;"><span style="font-size: 22px;"><span style="font-size: 22px;"><span style="color: red; font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-size: 18px;"><span style="font-size: 18px;">His training has also involved various styles of Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, Karate, Kick-boxing and a variety of other disciplines. <strong>"I still believe an open mind is required to fully understand the full spectrum of Martial Arts and all Arts have their strengths" </strong>He has also had the opportunity to visit, interview or be critiqued by</span> </span><span style="font-size: 22px;"><span style="font-size: 18px;">some of</span> <span style="font-size: 18px;">China's most renowned</span></span><span style="font-size: 18px;"> </span><span style="font-size: 20px;"><span style="font-size: 18px;">Taiji</span> <span style="font-size: 18px;">Masters such as the late <strong>18th Generation Master Feng</strong></span><strong> <span style="font-size: 18px;">Z</span><span style="font-size: 18px;"><span style="font-size: 18px;">hi</span> Qiang,</span> <span style="font-size: 18px;">Master Chen Yu </span></strong></span></span><em><span style="color: red; font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-size: 18px;"><strong>(Chen Zhaokui's son), Chen Qingzhou,</strong></span></span></em></span></span></span><span style="color: red; font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-size: 22px;"><span style="font-size: 18px;"> <span style="font-size: 18px;">and some</span></span><span style="font-size: 18px;"> </span><span style="font-size: 20px;"><span style="font-size: 18px;">other equally skilled , but less known Masters. <span style="font-size: 18px;">This</span></span><span style="font-size: 18px;"> has helped him gain a more well rounded understanding</span> <span style="font-size: 18px;">of </span><span style="font-size: 18px;"><span style="font-size: 18px;">Taiji,</span> its principles, philosophy and true history. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 24px;"><br />
<strong> </strong></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;"><strong> <span style="color: #353232;">Steve has spent the last three years living, training and working in China. He will be moving back to the states this year. In his absence all classes are taught by his trained staff.</span></strong></span><strong><span style="color: #353232;"><br />
<span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: 18px;">Steve also produces </span><a href="http://www.taijicenter.com/dvds.html"><span style="color: red; font-size: 18px;">Martial Art Training DVDs</span></a><span style="font-size: 18px;"><span style="color: red;"> </span>including instruction in Chen Taiji with both Master Zhu Tiancai and Master Kam Lee.</span></span></span></strong><span style="color: #353232; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 18px;"><strong> </strong></span><br />
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Steve had previously been involved in helping to translate much needed Chinese Kungfu and philosophical material to the English speaking world. <br /><br />As an author of many Taiji articles, he continues to write pieces geared for westerners to better understand this eastern-based philosophical art. <br /> He is in the process of organizing all the efforts of his research into a book covering all aspects of Taijiquan. </h3>
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He serves as a judge at International Tournaments for both MMA and Traditional Martial Arts. His school has produced many Gold, Silver and Bronze medalists. He has competed in Tournaments in both China and the USA. Steve sponsors workshops in both the USA and China. He promotes trips to China for training with the worlds most accomplished Masters for individuals or groups. </div>
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</div>taijicenterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006354603403775475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1898658311850359602.post-19639401532254538242011-04-23T03:25:00.001-07:002012-02-17T14:05:13.440-08:00Demystifying and Revealing the Truth on how Taijiquan Works<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 16pt;"><strong>Demystifying and Revealing the Truth on how</strong></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 16pt;"><strong><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Taijiquan Works</strong></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 20pt;"><strong>Part 1</strong></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 14pt;"><strong>A basic explanation of Taijiquan to my fellow Martial Artists</strong></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: maroon; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">This article is my interpretation of Taijiquan (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">focusing on the Chen Style</i>) as seen through my eyes. I have not emphasized the health and philosophical aspects in this article, because I believe most people are already aware of the legitimate association they have with Taijiquan. I have reflected some of the thoughts of the Taiji Masters with whom I have trained with and also have included many of my own. I certainly do not claim to represent the Taiji world in any way nor will this put to rest all of the debate and mysticism surrounding Taijiquan. Keep in mind, there are many ways to look at Taijiquan, however this should at least introduce the Martial Arts World to some basic Taijiquan concepts (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">many of which they also may be familiar with</i>). My Martial Art training began forty years ago with the last twenty focusing on Taiji and the past twelve dedicated almost exclusively to the Chen Style. I have come to strongly believe that balance and harmony <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(as illustrated by the philosophy of Yin and Yang) </i>are the key ingredients to understanding not only Taijiquan philosophy, but life itself.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: maroon; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I will purposely avoid using Taijiquan Terminology and in its place use some basic language and analogies recognizable outside of the Taiji world.</i>) </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: maroon; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">I have found that even here in </span><country-region><place><span style="color: maroon; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">China</span></place></country-region><span style="color: maroon; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">, many people are unaware of the combat roots in which Chen Taijiquan was spawned. Even some practitioners focusing on the tremendous health aspect of this otherwise misunderstood art and its spin-offs (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Yang, Wu, Wu, and Sun to name a few</i>) are unaware of the true origin of Chen Taijiquan. Its development was predicated on defense in life and death situations in a brutally violent environment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: maroon; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Most modern martial art historians now credit the Chen family for creating Taijiquan as we know it today. The Chen Clan has been known for their martial arts for the past 20 generations, but it was a 9<sup>th</sup> generation family member Chen Wanting (1600-1680) who is considered to be Chen Taijiquan’s founding father. He was a famous bodyguard and also a well known military commander. He used his expertise to combine a variety of martial art principles with the theories of Yin and Yang, using breathing in conjunction with body movements to guide and focus energy, along with the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is this eclectic blend that makes Taijiquan a most all encompassing and unique Martial Art.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: maroon; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now for some details: bear in mind that all Martial Arts have some common factors. Taijiquan is a complicated system utilizing and resting upon many important principles. Among the most fundamental of these principles are balance, stability, leverage, redirecting and the neutralization of force and of course generating force (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">including how to place force on a particular point of the lever - wherever that point may be in a given situation</i>). Careful consideration to body alignment and proper structure is a must. This must also be achieved without over-tightening muscles and joints that would otherwise be counter productive to natural movement. Why is relaxation of the body necessary? A key reason is that all joints require muscle groups for movement. Muscles responsible for movements are paired off with opposing muscles such as biceps and triceps (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">arm movements as in bending/pulling and straightening/pushing)</i> and chest and back (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">as in pushing and pulling</i>). If the opposing muscle such as the biceps tighten up while the triceps are engaged in a pushing or punching motion, the bicep diminishes both the power and speed of the movement. The same problem applies to any of the muscles trying to move any joint in any direction.<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> </i>This would compare to trying to push a disabled vehicle off the road with four individuals, two in front wanting to push backwards and two in the rear trying to push forwards. There is a conflict between the four men which hinders the task. Even if the two front men over power the two men in the back, this is not an efficient way to operate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However a totally relaxed body without any structure is equally useless. (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Anyone who says Taijiquan does not use any muscular force is misunderstanding this art.</i> <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The difference is how it is used.)</i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: maroon; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Another basic principle is that movement must possess a spiraling transfer of force from a push of the foot off the ground to the dantian <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(body’s center located in the lower abdominal region) </i>and only then can it be delivered throughout the body as needed. (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> Also consider on a more technical level that even the initial push of the ground is preceded by dantian movement. Force can be also initiated from internal torque within the body when a solid root is not available, but an even higher level of Taiji skill is needed.</i>) Unlike some martial arts Taijiquan utilizes every part of the body and all parts must be capable of delivering power in order to protect oneself. Whether done fast or slow it must not lose its fluidity. All of this, while maintaining a straight upper torso with movements usually traveling in an arc like path (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">though they sometimes appear straight due to the shortness of the distance traveled – it is said that there are no straight lines in nature</i>).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Picture 1A CAPTION</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="background: silver; mso-highlight: silver;">Anyone who has trained on some of the older Universal type weight equipment or even the modern Smith Machine should be able to recall the discomfort of trying to apply force on a machine that only travels in a straight line (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">such as a military-press, bench-press or squat</i>). It can be done, but it misaligns and stresses the joints and muscles of the body in an anatomically incorrect fashion.</span> The practitioner must be able to deliver force at any point in the circular path. He must also be able to accept incoming force by the use of redirecting and neutralizing (without the use of impact). </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: maroon; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">First let us look at issuing power.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: maroon; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">The offensive release of force is likened to letting go of an arrow (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">just slightly opening two fingers</i>) when placed in a drawn bow. Other ways to look at it would be squeezing the trigger on a garden-hose nozzle where the water has been turned on and pressure is present in the hose or a dog shaking the mud and rain off of its body. The mud and rain go flying off effortlessly.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: maroon; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">With these analogies in mind you must also add this important thought. That in whatever direction you must emit power or accept incoming force; the tool for the job revolves as if it is part of a sphere and can be pointed in any direction. This allows the Taijiquan practitioner to be able to defend himself from all directions and from any position. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(This sphere is located at the body’s center / lower abdominal region area aka dantian.)</i> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;">Another method of initiating power is the folding and unfolding of the torso (in the chest, shoulder an upper back area). Utilizing a center vertical line running through the torso from the crown of the head to a low point of the torso found between the genitalia and the anus. This centerline acts as a hinge allowing the shoulders to swing forward or backward (never exceeding they natural range of motion) both individually and or simultaneously.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This can be compared to getting hit by a slamming door set to spring open or closed. In close quarters, clinching or grappling the shoulder (in all directions) becomes a powerful striking tool that requires limited movement, but explosive power and virtually no telegraphic warnings before the strike lands. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: maroon; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">In general when releasing power in any direction, the body cyclically passes through three different stages</span><span style="color: purple; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">,</span><span style="color: maroon; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"> <span style="background: silver; mso-highlight: silver;">similar to that of a spring including coiling or compressing, releasing or expanding and then returning to a neutral state neither compressed nor expanded.</span> Early practice of the form teaches this in a very slow methodical way. From a neutral position (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">relaxed while maintaining proper structure</i>)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the body coils in the opposite direction from which it wants to move and then a releasing motion of the body sends it in its intended direction which is the uncoiling and expanding likened to that of the spring, which could also be used to release power. From that point of expansion <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(never extending one’s body or limbs beyond its limits of balance)</i> it naturally returns to the neutral position and this process is repeated throughout the form. These movements are not always all that visible to the naked eye. Keep in mind<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(as mentioned above)</i> another dimension to this spring-like movement that separates Chen Taijiquan<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>from other styles is the revolving of the body’s center (dantian) in any direction needed to drive the created force spiraling out. Thus the rotation of the body’s center is the true driving force of all power. These movements like all Taijiquan movements should be executed while maintaining a solid, but flexible root and stable connection to the ground with the exception of the higher level of internal torque available to the more advanced level practitioner. This also does not mean that one’s foot can never leave the ground, but you must push off of your root to have maximum force. This can also be compared to a ball or a wheel rolling on the ground with total freedom, but still needing to maintain contact with the ground for continuous controlled movement. When contact is lost for an extended time it would resemble a car hydroplaning out of control. Although it is still a dangerous moving mass, it can’t be guided or controlled properly until it reconnects to the road. With Taijiquan, we strive to utilize all the laws of nature while maintaining total control of our moving and rolling mass and its power while having the highest level of awareness, sensitivity and efficiency <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(all with a relaxed mind and body)</i>. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: maroon; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">One of the defensive structural properties of Taijiquan mimics a balloon being punched while suspended in air. It barely moves and does not pop, because it is soft and offers no resistance that would create any impact. It just floats enough to be out of the initial reach of what ever is striking it.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: maroon; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Even holding it in a fixed position and pressing in with a finger does not damage its inflated structure, as the finger is being withdrawn the surface is returning to its original shape. Consider what happens when you take a sledge-hammer to a hard concrete block. How about taking that same sledge-hammer to a properly inflated rubber tire. The hammer bounces off the tire with the same force it hits it with and no damage to the tire. Which would you rather be the concrete block or the rubber tire?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(My teacher demonstrated this principal by letting me punch him in the stomach and my fist bounced right off.)</i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: maroon; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I recall an experience in my younger construction days while swinging a sledge hammer to break up a concrete patio. There was a clothes line above and I caught it with a high overhead swing. The clothes line <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(made of a rope stretched across the yard from one tree to another)</i> caught the head of the hammer, accepted the force and then released it back in the direction it came from with such speed that it hit me in the back. That thin rope defended itself better from my hammer than the hard concrete did. It even counter-struck me in the back with enough force that I instantly was knocked off my feet. That is just another example of softness overcoming hardness. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: maroon; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: maroon; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Defending against blows or accepting incoming force in from your opponent also compares to the tire and clothes line theory. An example of another Taiji principal would be like throwing an object in to a tornado where it becomes redirected. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(No impact needed.)</i> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: maroon; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">These are just some of the Taijiquan methods of dealing with incoming force that lends to Philosophy of Yin and Yang. Combining soft and hard as needed to produce the desired results.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: maroon; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">As we develop the basic skills we also must constantly increase our level of awareness, sensitivity, clarity in thinking seeing and feeling and all while not upsetting the harmony of natural movement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Carrying over to the Martial side and combat related scenarios we must also understand following and entering into an opponents territory <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(range)</i> with the path of no resistance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The mind must possess the perfect blend of alertness while in a relaxed state so as not to be hindered by anxiety, fear, premeditated movements or anticipation from the actions of your opponent. Your reactions are to be spontaneous with out thought, more like other functions of the body when performing involuntary actions. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: maroon; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">The aforementioned is certainly not a comprehensive list of the myriad of skills needed to master this art, but are basic skills that should be understood by an intermediate player to say the least.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In part 2 we will discuss how one can attain these needed skills.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: maroon; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Please look for Part 2 on this blog-site</span></b></div></div>taijicenterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006354603403775475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1898658311850359602.post-15110061712344057002011-03-31T16:22:00.000-07:002011-04-24T03:28:18.185-07:00My You Tube Links<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;">You tube links</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">I will continue to add links to this page </span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Training at Chen Bing’s School<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: x-small; mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DNZxosxfXME"><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DNZxosxfXME</span></a></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><place><placename><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Chen</b></placename><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> </b><placetype><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Village</b></placetype></place><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> </b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pIWs1lWnvFg" target="_new"><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pIWs1lWnvFg</span></a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
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</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN" style="font-size: x-small; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Lao jia and Paocui outdoors chen village</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zW-bbOHH71I"><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zW-bbOHH71I</span></a></span></b><br />
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<strong>Master Kam Lee - Straight Sword, China, Gold Medalist </strong></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zZ2EQ4h9AAc">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zZ2EQ4h9AAc</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN" style="font-size: x-small; mso-ansi-language: EN;">kam lee biography link</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><a href="http://www.taijikungfuacademy.com/KamLeeMartialArtsBiography.pdf"><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;">http://www.taijikungfuacademy.com/KamLeeMartialArtsBiography.pdf</span></a></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN" style="font-size: x-small; mso-ansi-language: EN;">WU SHU Masters video cctv</span></b><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><a href="http://bugu.cntv.cn/sports/other/wulindahui/classpage/video/20110111/100794.shtml"><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;">http://bugu.cntv.cn/sports/other/wulindahui/classpage/video/20110111/100794.shtml</span></a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><a href="http://bugu.cntv.cn/sports/other/wulindahui/classpage/video/20110208/100624.shtml"><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;">http://bugu.cntv.cn/sports/other/wulindahui/classpage/video/20110208/100624.shtml</span></a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://bugu.cntv.cn/sports/other/wulindahui/classpage/video/20110215/100813.shtml"><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;">http://bugu.cntv.cn/sports/other/wulindahui/classpage/video/20110215/100813.shtml</span></a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
Chen Ziqiang of <place><placename>Chen</placename> <placetype>Village</placetype></place>(Chen Xiaowang"s nephew) middle weight 2010 champion</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://bugu.cntv.cn/sports/other/wulindahui/classpage/video/20100511/100781.shtml"><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;">http://bugu.cntv.cn/sports/other/wulindahui/classpage/video/20100511/100781.shtml</span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
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</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #993300; font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">Master<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Zhu Tiancai </span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">Laojia Yilu Part 1</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lhWnQwQz33U&feature=BF&list=ULtOp94JNmLBg&index=4"><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lhWnQwQz33U&feature=BF&list=ULtOp94JNmLBg&index=4</span></a></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">Laojia<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yilu Part 2</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0mPFtsV1KQ0&feature=mfu_in_order&list=UL"><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0mPFtsV1KQ0&feature=mfu_in_order&list=UL</span></a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300; font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">Laojia Yilu Part 3</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VyJ0WD_FvAY&feature=BF&list=ULtOp94JNmLBg&index=6"><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VyJ0WD_FvAY&feature=BF&list=ULtOp94JNmLBg&index=6</span></a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span> <br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">Premiere Personal Trainer Brian Lederman’s strength training. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/bml67?feature=mhum#p/a/u/2/bXL5K-06BtU"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: x-small;">http://www.youtube.com/user/bml67?feature=mhum#p/a/u/2/bXL5K-06BtU</span></a></div></div><br />
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</div>taijicenterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006354603403775475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1898658311850359602.post-17404602327573109132011-03-27T05:43:00.000-07:002011-03-27T05:45:32.225-07:00This Year'sTraining with Masters Zhu Tiancai and Chen Bing<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b><u>This Year's Training with Masters Zhu Tiancai and Chen Bing</u></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Although their approaches to training differ, they both have the ability to identify my many Taiji flaws and try to correct me in a way that I can understand. I would recommend that anyone who has the chance to train with them in <place><placename>Chen</placename> <placetype>Village</placetype></place> should do so. They both have large training facilities and can accommodate any individual or group that would like to train there. The advantage of training there is not only the great instruction, but the environment and feel of being in the birthplace of Taiji. Second to training there would be to catch up to them at workshops in the <country-region><place>US</place></country-region>. If you are interested in training in <country-region><place>China including <place><placename>Chen</placename> <placetype>Village</placetype></place>, <place><placename>Shaolin</placename> <placetype>Temple</placetype></place> or any other place, I can help you make the needed arrangements. The last point I will make in this entry is for Taiji Historians. <place><placename>Chen</placename> <placetype>Village</placetype></place> is starting to change a lot. If you want to catch a glimpse of the past before it disappears and catches up to the rest of the world, don't delay your visit. Time is running out.</div>taijicenterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006354603403775475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1898658311850359602.post-7457891089783003842011-03-26T02:49:00.000-07:002012-01-29T04:56:45.940-08:00Welcome to the Taiji Center ForumVisit my full web-site <a href="http://www.taijicenter.com/">http://www.taijicenter.com/</a><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Dear Readers and Friends,</div>I will try to share some of my training and living experiences with you. I hope that all of the readers of this blog can share there knowledge with me regarding the arts and their philosophies. <br />
I have been very fortunate to have visited <country-region><place>China</place></country-region> more than 10 times since 2002 and have been living there for the past two and a half years. I have trained for the past 40 years in a variety of martial arts. The past 20 have been with Taiji and the past 11 years have been dedicated to the Chen Style. (Under the tutelage of Master Kam Lee and Grand Master Zhu Tiancai along with some other representatives from Chen Village.) I consider myself an open minded martial artist and see strengths in all the arts that I have had a chance to experience. Taiji is certainly one of the most misunderstood arts worldwide (including here in <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><country-region><place>China</place></country-region>) It was developed as a self-defense in a violent era of <country-region><place>China</place></country-region>. The Chen family used their skills under life and death situations as bodyguards and escorts. We will explore some of their original training methods still being used today by some practitioners. <br />
<br />
At this time in my life I find Chen Taiji the most suitable. It is not because of my age (53).<br />
It is because of its practicality, versatility and philosophy. <br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will be adding to this blog regularly. I hope you will contribute with both questions and by sharing your experiences with any martial arts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hope to improve our understanding of the arts through this blog and its companion website -<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="color: blue;">taijicenter.com</span><br />
<br />
Thanks for reading,<br />
Steve Contes<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"></div>taijicenterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006354603403775475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1898658311850359602.post-45986009584150533022011-03-22T15:52:00.000-07:002012-10-24T12:13:20.205-07:00Observations From Living in China<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 18pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">Observations From <st1:country -region="-region" w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">China</st1:place></st1:country><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">Written by Steve Contes<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">I
had the opportunity to live in <st1:country -region="-region" w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">China</st1:place></st1:country>
for the past three years and had been making regular trips to <st1:country -region="-region" w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">China</st1:place></st1:country> since
2002<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">.</b> My original intention
regarding my long stay was for Taiji Study. The experience and education I
gained went far beyond martial arts, but did exemplify Taiji principles on a
most practical level (every day living and survival). I will share with you some
interesting observations regarding people living and working old school style. Many
of our modern conveniences are absent yet they seem happier. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also understand that this type of life-style
is not exclusive only to those in <st1:country -region="-region" w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">China</st1:place></st1:country>. It just happens to be the
environment where I was exposed to it along with both a blend of Chinese
philosophy and tradition and how it is ultimately adaptable to any type of
surroundings or way of life. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Same as
Taiji (born of Chinese philosophy and tradition) which also proves to be
adaptable when and wherever needed. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"> </span></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: yellow; mso-highlight: yellow;">Chinese philosopher, Meng Zi
(372-289 BC):</span></b><strong><i><span style="background: yellow; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-highlight: yellow;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background: yellow; color: black; font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-highlight: yellow;">“</span><span lang="ZH-CN" style="background: yellow; color: black; font-family: SimSun; mso-ansi-language: ZH-CN; mso-ascii-font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-hansi-font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-highlight: yellow;">天降大任与斯人也</span><span lang="ZH-CN" style="background: yellow; color: black; font-family: SimSun; mso-ascii-font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-hansi-font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-highlight: yellow;">,</span><span lang="ZH-CN" style="background: yellow; color: black; font-family: SimSun; mso-ansi-language: ZH-CN; mso-ascii-font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-hansi-font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-highlight: yellow;">必先苦其心志</span><span lang="ZH-CN" style="background: yellow; color: black; font-family: SimSun; mso-ascii-font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-hansi-font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-highlight: yellow;">,</span><span lang="ZH-CN" style="background: yellow; color: black; font-family: SimSun; mso-ansi-language: ZH-CN; mso-ascii-font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-hansi-font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-highlight: yellow;">劳其筋骨</span><span lang="ZH-CN" style="background: yellow; color: black; font-family: SimSun; mso-ascii-font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-hansi-font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-highlight: yellow;">,</span><span lang="ZH-CN" style="background: yellow; color: black; font-family: SimSun; mso-ansi-language: ZH-CN; mso-ascii-font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-hansi-font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-highlight: yellow;">饿其体肤</span><span lang="ZH-CN" style="background: yellow; color: black; font-family: SimSun; mso-ascii-font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-hansi-font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-highlight: yellow;">,</span><span lang="ZH-CN" style="background: yellow; color: black; font-family: SimSun; mso-ansi-language: ZH-CN; mso-ascii-font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-hansi-font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-highlight: yellow;">空乏其身</span><span style="background: yellow; color: black; font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-highlight: yellow;">……”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background: yellow; color: black; font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-highlight: yellow;">“When Heaven is about to place a great
burden on a man</span><span lang="ZH-CN" style="background: yellow; color: black; font-family: SimSun; mso-ascii-font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-hansi-font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-highlight: yellow;">,</span><span style="background: yellow; color: black; font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-highlight: yellow;">it always tests his
resolution first</span><span lang="ZH-CN" style="background: yellow; color: black; font-family: SimSun; mso-ascii-font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-hansi-font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-highlight: yellow;">,</span><span style="background: yellow; color: black; font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-highlight: yellow;">exhausts his body, makes
him suffer great hardships and frustrates his efforts to recover from mental
lassitude</span><span lang="ZH-CN" style="background: yellow; color: black; font-family: SimSun; mso-ascii-font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-hansi-font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-highlight: yellow;">.</span><span style="background: yellow; color: black; font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; mso-highlight: yellow;">Then Heaven toughens his
nature and makes good his deficiencies.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Greatness is born</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Comic Sans MS";"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">I
believe life’s lessons present themselves (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">in
the forms of challenges and difficulties)</i> as needed and it is up to the
individual whether he accepts what is being offered or chooses to ignore it.
The more important the lesson is the greater the challenge will be. This theory
explains why so many seemingly ordinary people do extraordinary things. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are all constantly facing challenges on
different levels. When it comes to every day living, most of us here in <st1:country -region="-region" w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">America</st1:place></st1:country> have
been exposed to a fairly modern life-style where many things are often taken
for granted. <st1:country -region="-region" w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">China</st1:place></st1:country>
is also enjoying rapid progress in becoming a modern country. It still has a
large curve to turn before the majority of its people catch up to what most of
us here consider a basic standard of living. Unfortunately often when something
is gained another is lost. I have already personally observed this phenomenon
here in <st1:country -region="-region" w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">China</st1:place></st1:country>
over the past ten years. From my perspective some of the trade offs possess
more of a negative than positive effect on <st1:country -region="-region" w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">China</st1:place></st1:country>’s future.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: silver; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; mso-highlight: silver;">Bedtime on a cold winter’s</span></b><span style="background: silver; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-highlight: silver;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: silver; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; mso-highlight: silver;">night<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b><span style="background: silver; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-highlight: silver;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig64jyO_jL9ypFHo86M8_BM5C-Zy04tDOR-_rPne5AEmePIwmmAvolRbYUjW5BsQidUAG_bB2VIcfSixdOA53CeJpms2Uyl0Tm2OBO5wg5GLtNa_-owBGzdtS7-3ngmwZKo_JSzwgIXJM/s1600/1-sleeping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig64jyO_jL9ypFHo86M8_BM5C-Zy04tDOR-_rPne5AEmePIwmmAvolRbYUjW5BsQidUAG_bB2VIcfSixdOA53CeJpms2Uyl0Tm2OBO5wg5GLtNa_-owBGzdtS7-3ngmwZKo_JSzwgIXJM/s320/1-sleeping.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Hot
water, heat, warm beds to sleep in, mattresses to sleep on, air-conditioning,
bathrooms, bathtubs, showers, toilets and well equipped kitchens, washing
machines, dryers etc… are not the norm in many areas. I lived in a six story
building for teachers at a public high school. (I was the only foreigner there)
Most of the apartments had no bathing facilities nor did they have a kitchen.
Heat and AC was also not available on the first five floors. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Most
of us here in the states depend on motor vehicles instead of bicycles or
walking. Not so in <st1:country -region="-region" w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">China</st1:place></st1:country>.
Time and time again in the U.S., I have witnessed drivers attempting to park in
a busy mall or shopping center, circle the lot<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>five or six times. All just to get a spot closer in order to avoid the
slightest amount of what they believe to be unnecessary walking. That mentality
wouldn’t fly in <st1:country -region="-region" w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">China</st1:place></st1:country>.
For those of you that do not fit in to the above category of typical American
living, you can easily relate to the larger number of people in China I am
referring to. For the rest of you, try to use your imagination <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Hot
or cold, rain or snow, the bicycle is an indispensable tool used 365 days a
year. From students traveling to school or women in dresses and men in suits on
their way to the office, biking is the acceptable method of travel.
Construction workers hauling materials or people making deliveries, even small
restaurant kitchens that set up on the road-side all working off bikes or
trikes.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"> </span></o:p></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt;"> Food Vendors<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"></span></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><strong><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So here are some of my observations.</strong> <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">I
have had the opportunity to watch many people in different places performing a
large variety of tasks. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The group I am
speaking of usually range from forty or so on up.</i> <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(Way on up)</i> <em><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">From
street vendors outside in sub-zero temperatures to men doing the work of
machines or climbing mountain paths carrying pails of water to pulling unthinkable
loads on bicycles etc...</span></em> <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"> </span></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt;">Bikes doing the work of trucks, people
doing the jobs of engines.</span></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt;"></span></b><br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt;">Electric
Bike</span></b><br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt;"></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"></span> </div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">One
thing holds true with their methods. What at first glance seems to be a slow
and inefficient performance of ones responsibilities, slowly and methodically
transforms itself into both a practical and successful way of completing a job
more than well done. <u>Nothing </u>deters them from their objective, which
does not even appear to be finishing as much as just doing, which somehow
naturally manifests the end and needed results.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Speed here is not even a consideration and appears to have no value and
perhaps more likely to be considered a disadvantage, because it can’t compete
with the slower, fluid and steady process. Their persistence and skill operate
like a happy marriage from start to finish no matter what the challenging task
may be.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No movement needs to be done twice. No use of
any modern tools or devices. Mostly some home made concoction using a
combination of other items that may have outlived their original purpose only
to be reincarnated and modified to live another productive life. The other
ingredient embedded in each task is the element of enjoyment which is hard to
comprehend due to the nature of the job itself and the often harsh environment
in which it takes place. (Extreme weather both summer heat and frozen winters) <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My <st1:time hour="5" minute="0" w:st="on">5:00am</st1:time>
morning bike ride to the park (for Taiji practice) was always filled with the
sounds of early street cleaners and vendors laughing, singing and joking. It
became an inspirational part of my day that I grew to look forward to. I guess
the magic lies in the simplicity of it all, not the motivation to finish one
thing so you can start another and the fundamental principle of appreciating
life. There is no feeling sorry for yourself here, no matter what the
situation. It is also the same enjoyable discipline possessed by my fellow
Taiji practitioners in the park. Come rain or shine (or<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>blizzard) the many dedicated and most of them
elderly rarely miss a morning workout.. But in the end objectives are met and all
goes well. This is also how they approach other aspects of their lives as well.
<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"> </span></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">As
hard as they work, they balance it out with ample time socializing and enjoying
family and friends.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was fortunate to make some very good friends
there and was invited in to there homes for food, (some of the best I ever ate
although sometimes strange at first glance like many new encounters I met up
with) drink and the many of the family oriented gatherings they enjoy. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"> </span></o:p></span><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt;">Some local delicacies </span></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt;"></span></b><br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be it a holiday or just an evening to share
with family (usually three or four generations worth) or friends the topics of
discussion never addressed complaints about one’s living conditions or daily
difficulties.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is not that they are
complacent or lack ambition.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Conversations
were often filled with passion, emotion and controversy, but no self-pity. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even arguing and confrontation here seems to
lack stress, anxiety and a prolonged negative effect on one’s attitude. No
place is perfect and <st1:country -region="-region" w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">China</st1:place></st1:country>
is certainly no exception. That’s ok with me because I am not looking for
perfection, just peace and contentment. I have learned that with the right
perspective I can find exactly what I am looking for anywhere and anytime. (I fully
became aware of this principle while living in China.)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"> </span></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will try to benefit from this philosophy and
apply it to my own life. So in the long run, I have learned an important lesson
that I will cherish, hold and continue to expand on. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">As
for me, I now prefer the simpler life style I came to know and love in <st1:country -region="-region" w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">China</st1:place></st1:country>. I began
to enjoy such basic responsibilities like riding my three kids to school on my
bike. (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Two separate trips for three
children- two kids and an adult on a bike is a common sight and four or five on
an electric bike doesn’t even turn heads.</i> ) Early training (<st1:time hour="5" minute="30" w:st="on">5:30am</st1:time>) in the park even when winter
served up some of the coldest days I have ever witnessed, was one of my
favorite parts of the day. Stopping at a few street vendor/restaurants on my
way back home and picking up hot breakfast for my family of five for about the
equivalent of $1.75 which never ceased to amaze me, but always put a smile on
my face followed by a sensation of fullness in my stomach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hard boiled eggs cooked in a flavorful broth,
rice with beans and fruit congee and of course steamed Bao zi (steamed bread
stuffed with anything you like) which also served as an efficient hand warmer
topped off with traditional fresh bakery items. I would have more than enough
for everyone and leftovers for an in between meal time snack. With each task
that required an enjoyable effort, I was also rewarded with a greater
satisfaction in a way that I had never previously experienced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With the exception of being absent from my parents,
eldest daughter, other family members and friends any originally believed to be
concessions of my American life became integral lessons in personal growth. Example:
I am an avid driver (cars, motorcycles and trucks) and have driven throughout
46 of the contiguous states and loved every mile of it, but<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>no longer missed driving my own vehicle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The bicycle was a sweet replacement that not
only transported me from place to place, but provided a closer look at the
beautiful scenery on the way (certainly missed by any motorized transportation)
and a stronger, healthier body with less of a dirty anthropogenic footprint on our struggling
environment. Also the travel itself was always as gratifying as the arrival. That
is just a small sample of my personal but beautiful experience living in <st1:country -region="-region" w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">China</st1:place></st1:country>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Regarding Taiji principles: The life-style and philosophy
discussed above lead to a balanced life full of contentment, but not blinded by
any harsh realities. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I personally have begun to take
a slower approach to my practice and my life. Less driving and more biking. Still
training hard 2-3 hours a day, but without the great demands I previously put
on my self. (Also noticeably less injuries leading to more consistency in my
training)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s another example of the
aforementioned. It is no longer important for me to study more and more new forms,
but instead to understand fewer more deeply and clearly. I don’t focus on quantity.
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just enjoy the training and that has
led me to better see and understand Taij and the rest of my life from a new
perspective. Taiji without the pressures and the goals is now giving me even
more benefits than before. So without goals, goals are also achieved in a very
natural way. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">That is my interpretation on some fundamental Taiji principles and
how they can impact our lives both short and long term in a most positive way.
Please send me your thoughts on this article. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Email: </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">taijicenter@aol.com</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Web Site: </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">taijicenter.com<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">About
the author: A practicing martial artist for over 40 years and researcher of
philosophy and health from around the world, old and new.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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taijicenterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006354603403775475noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1898658311850359602.post-85845307102840378072011-03-22T15:47:00.000-07:002011-03-30T15:31:42.759-07:00Has My Taiji Training Been Successful / My Martial Art Autobiography<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #993300;">Has my Taiji Training been successful?</span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #993300;">My Martial Art Autobiography </span></b><span style="color: #993300;">Written by Steve Contes</span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #993300;">An ordinary Martial Artist.</span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;">This is a summary of the path that Martial Arts have led me and how I found my way to Taiji. Those of you that have devoted your lives to Martial Arts probably have a similar story.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am an avid and dedicated Taiji practitioner although you might not know it from watching my form. My first loves have always been Martial Arts and Philosophy not necessarily in that order.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(At this point in my life they have become unified into one.)</i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;">Now let’s address the topic at hand. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;">Has my Taiji training been successful? </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;">First we must define the term successful. It comes in many colors and flavors. Depending on the individual and his ideals, each one of us must draw our own conclusion. I can only speak for myself and my limited life experience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As I begin to explain my feelings on the subject, let me make it clear that I am not trying to influence or impose my ideas on anyone. I am merely sharing my thoughts as a fellow spiritual being.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also do not want to be misunderstood or thought to be conceited, but I consider myself a very successful martial artist which has made me an even more successful man. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;">Most people around me would likely think otherwise due to the environment that I have created around me and in which I live.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is quite modest and simple without all the embellishments often associated with success.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;">How does this relate to my Taiji training and what I have learned from it. I will give you a brief history of my Martial Arts experience spanning the last forty years of which led me to my in depth study of Chen Style Taijiquan. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;">As early as age 6, I was always fascinated by </span><country-region><place><span style="color: #993300;">China</span></place></country-region><span style="color: #993300;"> and the Chinese. Even as a child in Brooklyn I thought I lived in a Chinese neighborhood because what I thought was Chinese writing turned out to be Hebrew. I got my first glimpse of martial arts through Television. It was the likes of Captian Kirk of Star Trek and James West from the Wild West displaying their fighting prowess and watching The John Wayne Movie, The Green Berets and it’s display of Judo and Jiujitsu techniques in a scene with soldiers training. Mannix the TV Detective often utilized Martial Arts in his fight scenes. And I can’t forget TV wrestling which had some of the greatest athletes in the world. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s what planted the seed which spawned my love for the science of combat and it’s use of leverage and other principles of science. The next step was the Kungfu Movie genre that hit the </span><country-region><place><span style="color: #993300;">US</span></place></country-region><span style="color: #993300;"> in the seventies. But my greatest inspiration was (no surprise) Bruce Lee and his extraordinary skills complemented by his philosophical approach to the arts. His movies were great and I still watch them till this day, but it was his role on the TV program Long Street that had the greatest early influence on me. (A must see for Bruce Lee fans.)</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;">My first look at Karate up close was through a neighbor/ friend, who was studying with a local Sensei in my home town, Port Jefferson NY. I was a young </span><place><span style="color: #993300;">Brooklyn</span></place><span style="color: #993300;"> transplant and <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>as a young child moved to Port Jefferson. (</span><place><placename><span style="color: #993300;">North</span></placename><span style="color: #993300;"> </span><placetype><span style="color: #993300;">Shore</span></placetype></place><span style="color: #993300;">, </span><place><span style="color: #993300;">Eastern Long Island</span></place><span style="color: #993300;">)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I bought my first Karate Magazine in 1969</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and I still have it.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;">All of the above led me to start this journey and take my first lesson (at the age of 12 or 13) in a Tae Kwon Do class at a nearby YMCA.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was accompanied by a few of my cousins, two of which continued to train their entire life as I did. Unfortunately the experience there was not what I expected, no one flying through the air or taking a barrage of kicks and punches with no apparent damage sustained, no Dim Mak or finger strike death blows were being taught.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My disappointment was probably fueled by my own ignorance and previous Hollywood TV and Hong Kong Movie Martial Art exposure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;">However it was still my first official experience even if I had not been enlightened. None of us stayed at this first school. Two of ny cousins did stay with the next system we tried and pretty much dedicated their Martial Art Career to the same Instructor. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even after my first lesson I also knew that there was still something about the Chinese Martial Arts and culture that intrigued me. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It did motivate me to continue to seek out an inspiring teacher and a suitable style. (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">With my main goal at that time, to learn how to defend myself against any size opponent)</i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I did not search for long as fate stepped in and delivered me to what became my second <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>home for about next 10 years or so. It was the Taizen and Shintai system of Self Defense and I studied under the tutelage of Sensei Vincent Miraglia <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(still one of the greatest Martial Artists I have ever seen)</i> and occasionally his instructor and owner of the original Taizen School Master Howard Tague (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">also a true Pioneer of the arts in both advanced skills and thinking way ahead of his time with his mind-body concepts.)</i> This was in a town called </span><place><span style="color: #993300;">Selden</span></place><span style="color: #993300;">, </span><place><span style="color: #993300;">Long island</span></place><span style="color: #993300;">. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was about a five mile bicycle ride to the school from my home, although the distance did appear to shrink when I’d catch a ride with my older cousin or even more so when I got a drivers license and car a few years later (at 16).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This system was a combination of Goju-Ryu and Jiu Jitsu with a very scientific approach to training the body and mind to work in a harmonious partnership. Just to scratch the service of the foundation and understanding of what the body can do (from the Taizen – Shintai perspective) in a natural state. When the mind is pure and without any counterproductive thinking such as fear, anticipation and anxiety, it is an amazing almost super human tool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How fast can you move your hand or body for that matter when it is exposed to an electrical shock or extremely high temperature?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Faster than you can block, parry or dodge a strike with techniques that you have practiced repetitiously for years with partners of all sizes and speeds. How hard can you accidentally bump someone when just walking freely and making shoulder to shoulder contact with them? Why can you perform so well under these conditions? The mind was pure and void of anticipation or preconceived notions of what might happen and neither anxiety nor fear were factored into the equation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can we learn to match that speed and duplicate it when fighting? Yes and these teachers could demonstrate that skill. I was inspired to train hard and did so in this unconventional but very practical system for many years. It was this early exposure to Taizen / Shintai System that also saved me and proved its effectiveness many times over during the 13 years I spent as a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(rather small 155lb)</i> bouncer in numerous clubs in NY. I also added my own strength training and nutrition programs into the mix and continued reading and studying about the mind and its true potential along with different philosophies and meditation methods from around the world. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;">As my skills began to evolve so did my way of thinking and my goals began to change.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;">Just to jump back to my childhood for a moment, my first exposure to philosophy came from reading about the American Indians and their love and respect for nature. Even as a child it mirrored my way of thinking and I often wondered why I was not born an Indian.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;">But I wasn’t and I was equally proud of my Greek heritage and its early links to philosophy, great warriors and Ancient Martial Arts such as Pankration ( a system combining wrestling, striking and any other possible use of the body as a weapon).</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even after my first 12 years or so of training, I felt strongly that my style needed more balance between hard and soft and less impact on the blocking of incoming attacks such as kicks and punches.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My wrestling and throwing skills also appeared to depend on my strength more than they should.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These factors stood heavy on my mind and needed to be corrected. I continued to study in some additional styles that partially addressed these issues, but not to my satisfaction. My training started to include equally all the different ranges of fighting, but I still felt incomplete as a martial artist.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;">I certainly don’t blame the styles, because they all had strong foundations and a history of producing effective martial artists. I knew it was me and I needed another approach towards my own training to make it complete.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;">During these early years I had short, but enjoyable stint in college studying philosophy which sharpened my interest to further seek out what I thought was true knowledge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My martial art training supplemented by my own exercise and nutrition programs also continued and has with out a break since that first day. I also began to explore on deeper levels the power of meditation and how it can improve our lives and how it relates to martial arts. My original Taizen / Shintai training still played (and still does play) a very important role of how I believed the Mind can and should work.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;">I started to understand that of all the enemies we needed protection from and must face in life, there will be one who keeps coming back for more and he will be relentless if we let him. This enemy was within; I was my own worst enemy and could prove to be the most dangerous of all to myself if left to run out of control. No physical skill could over power this enemy, but a strong mind and clear thinking resulting from proper meditation training could be the solution to this problem.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It could also give me the calmness and clarity when dealing with obstacles in life or in battle. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;">Now I started to feel that I had something to work with if I could only harmonize all of these principles.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;">I had read a lot about Taij, but this was in the late 70s and early 80s and I was unaware of any qualified instructors in my area.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;">What I didn’t know about Taiji was that is had about a 400 year head start on some of my still very crude ideas. In those 400 years it had refined both in life and on the battle fields all the above theories. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not only that, but there was a particular family responsible for creating Taiji and a specific place in </span><country-region><place><span style="color: #993300;">China</span></place></country-region><span style="color: #993300;"> where this Taiji evolution took place. They were the Chens and later on in my life I became fortunate enough to be accepted as a student by this family. We will discuss those details further in this article.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;">Through out the 80s and early 90s I continued to train hard under numerous skilled Instructors between NY, CA and FL, the three places I lived before I began traveling and then living in </span><country-region><place><span style="color: #993300;">China</span></place></country-region><span style="color: #993300;">. It was during this Pre-China period that I experienced; Kick boxing, several Kungfu Styles, Judo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Aikido to name a few and finally Taiji.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;">It was in Fl ( the early 90s) where I met my first two real Yang Style Taiji teachers. They laid the ground work for my basic understanding of Taiji. It was the Yang Style that made me wonder about its forerunner Chen Taiji. I felt if I really wanted to understand the true essence of Taiji then the Chen Style was where I should really start. (It seemed obvious go back to where Taiji began) It was in Febuary 1999 when I attended a seminar with Master Yang Yang in </span><place><city><span style="color: #993300;">Jacksonville</span></city><span style="color: #993300;"> </span><state><span style="color: #993300;">FL</span></state></place><span style="color: #993300;">, hosted by Master Kam Lee. This is where I met my greatest inspiration and teacher and oddly enough and with all due respect for the highly skilled Master Yang Yang, the teacher I’m speaking of is Master Kam Lee. I am still unaware of the full extent of his awesome skill and knowledge, but what I am aware of is his ability to transmit the specific knowledge I am ready for at any given moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My training with him has been the most effective training I have ever had. When my relationship with Chen Taiji began, I knew I was home and not a step of my journey was wasted because it delivered me to exactly where I belong. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #993300;">Master Kam Lee also introduced me into The Chen Family which has allowed me to train directly with many family members and also train in </span><place><placename><span style="color: #993300;">Chen</span></placename><span style="color: #993300;"> </span><placetype><span style="color: #993300;">Village</span></placetype></place><span style="color: #993300;">. Most of this training has been with Master Zhu Tiancai. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The main advantage gained from my living and training In China was not necessarily the instruction I received but the environment in which I trained and lived in. This has allowed me to better understand the culture, philosophy and the necessities that gave birth to this all encompassing Martial Art, Chen Taijiquan. I started to better comprehend the Tao and how it happens to mirror the American Indian philosophy that I so loved as a child. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have since learned that the origin of the North American Indians have their roots in </span><place><span style="color: #993300;">Asia</span></place><span style="color: #993300;">. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(It comes as no surprise)</i> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is this art that I owe my happiness and contentment to. It has taught me the true meaning of Martial Arts and how I can express myself through Taiji. It is not the external beauty of Taiji, but the internal harmony it creates. So I continue to train daily and look forward to the next workout and cherish the last. I also try to contribute back to this wondrous art form by sharing the limited knowledge I have attained, but more importantly by putting the True Taiji Masters with those students who desire to study and understand Taiji in its purest form.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #993300;">So am I successful? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What has Taiji taught me? </span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #993300;">Here are just a few of the many important things Taiji has taught me to better understand, but they are not necessarily Martial Art related.. Remember not all aspects of Taiji are directly related to Martial Arts.</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #993300;">I am still a work in progress, but a more relaxed work in progress.</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #993300;">Conclusion: So after 40 yrs what has changed? I may never be a great Martial Artist but, I am now very successful. Why? I understand the flawlessness of simplicity. I have come to realize that every step in my life has meaning. Every obstacle in life is an opportunity. Dealing with our fate creates our destiny.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can find true beauty everywhere. I am no longer unhappy with what I don’t know or can’t do and I am very happy with what I do know and can do. Even if there are some tasks that I can no longer perform, I enjoy the beautiful memories of when I could. However I am still motivated to keep moving and learning and won’t consider stagnation as an option. My obsessions have now become my desires. Most of my previous wants have become my don’t-need-anymores.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I still make mistakes and loose my patience, but I always quickly return back to a comfortable state of mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have learned to adapt to my surroundings in both short and long term scenarios. My former regrets have turned into gentle reminders not to duplicate bad choices. I measure my life in moments not minutes. I know what to appreciate and that all things in this life are temporary. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you want to ignore something in someone, ignore the bad. I let those I love and appreciate know that I do. Family and Friends are our most valuable assets. True wisdom does not come from books. Forget something bad everyday. I have learned to take my time, not waste my time. No matter how much kindness we share with others, we will never run out. Really and truly Smile. And as a wise man once said “we are Spiritual Beings having a Human experience” and I am thoroughly enjoying mine. All of the above can be applied to anyone’s life or any Martial Art environment. Taiji leaves no stone unturned and no situation unaddressed whether it be in life or in battle. (Or both combined)</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #993300;">This is why I feel like the most blessed man in the world. Although I don't have much money and I do not own a home, I realize now that I do have more than I could ever need or dream for. </span></b></div></div>taijicenterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11006354603403775475noreply@blogger.com1