![]() ![]() For more information, refer to the classic texts, such as the ‘Tao Te Ching’, Xishen Jing’, ‘I Ching’, ‘Daozang’ (Taoist Canon) and the ‘Sift Text’. It would be possible to spend a lifetime studying Taoism and this is only a basic introduction. That the weak overcomes the strong, and the soft overcomes the hard, Nothing in the world is softer and weaker than water Effectiveness of both ‘hard’ (yin) and ‘soft’ (yang) techniques, and the value of using ‘soft’ techniques against even the strongest opponent.Location of key pressure points as a means of quickly and strategically defending.Control of breathing and effective use of Qi to maximise inner strength, physical power, and promote sound mental health.Some basic examples of Taoist philosophy as they relate to kung fu classes include the: Golden Lion students are also taught Kung Fu’s Shaolin Martial Morality which teaches the Morality of Action and the Morality of Mind. In times of hardship, such as emotional, family or financial crisis, this knowledge helps us cope with our modern fast paced lives that lead to stress and anxiety. Kung Fu Philosophy in PracticeĪt the Golden Lion Academy, students are taught the Eight Wisdoms of Kung Fu, which teach important values and a code of conduct for both Chinese martial arts training and life. In addition, Kung Fu and Tai Chi uses Qi, meridians and pressure points as a means of self-defence and building health. This has a positive impact on overall physical and mental health and is a great form of preventative health care. Kung Fu and related activities such as Tai Chi (website opens in a new window) and traditional breathing exercises also aim to enhance the flow of Qi through the body. The flow of Qi can be regulated through the use of points along these meridians to enhance health and wellbeing.Ĭhinese Medicine is a practice guided by the meridians that seeks to improve health through things such as acupuncture, moxibustion, massage, cupping and herbal medicines. In the human body, Qi (along with blood and fluid) travels along channels known as meridians which lead to the organs. Qi is an important energy which can be used to attain equilibrium. Very simply put, Qi is a kind of vital energy or force that is fluid and constantly changing form. In Taoism, Qi (pronounced chee) means air or breath Qi is considered the basis of life. The nature of water is also used to explain another central concept to Taoism which is striving for non-action or paradoxically ‘wei wu wei’ which means ‘action without action’. The forces of Yin and Yang are well demonstrated in the nature of water - both soft and yet with immense power. The circle is divided into a Yin division (black) and a Yang division (white) with the curved line separating the divisions indicating a state of flux (Qi) with a smaller circle of Yin in the Yang division and Yang in the Yin division. This notion is captured in the Taoist symbol comprised of an outer circle representing the universe. This is an important concept in kung fu because it relates to the development and application of physical power in our techniques. Examples of Yin and Yang are hot and cold, bright and dark, male and female. Both are necessary and harmony can only be achieved through seeking a balance of Yin and Yang energies. Lao-Tzu developed the concept of Yin and Yang to explain that all things have two aspects. Kung fu aims to keep us in harmony and balance. Taoists seek to live in harmony with the Tao. It is about recognising that everything is interconnected, that everything you do affects everything else around you. Taoism is about living within nature’s laws and in harmony with the cycle of nature. The life goals or three jewels for a Taoist are compassion, humility and moderation. The Tao (simply translated as ‘The way’ or ‘path’) is considered to be a transcendent force and the source of all creation. Taoism Founded by Lao-Tzu (604-531 BCE) and recorded in the ‘Tao Te Ching’, is a collection of teachings for living in harmony with nature, other people and within yourself. Taoism, pre-dates even Buddhism which has played a significant role given kung fu was first practised by Chinese Monks who later established the Shaolin Temple. Kung Fu is grounded in the philosophy of Taoism (pronounced as ‘Daoism’). Kung Fu philosophy teaches important values and code of conduct for both martial arts training and life, the philosophy helps us cope with modern day stress, anxiety and pressure. ![]() About Dai Sifu Pier Tsui-Po (Retired 2016).Traditional Training: Southern Shaolin Kung Fu. ![]()
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