Friday, May 30, 2014

A Trilogy Of Meditative Traditions In The Chinese Martial Arts

By Marci Glover


Warrior of stillness comes in three volumes each covering the three internal or meditative traditions used by the Chinese martial artists. The meditative traditions in the Chinese martial arts are described by author, Sifu Jan, a seasoned private instructor from California. He describes the physical and mental aspects of this tradition and how they are used to achieve perfection.

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

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

The author insists that the central point for each individual should be the Wuji. Everything else springs from this point. Students can easily relate to this description considering that a standing posture is the genesis of any artistic expression. Both hands are placed side by side to achieve balance.

The mode of presentation given by Jan Sifu makes one more aware of internal body mechanic. This awareness is crucial when searching for balance. It makes it possible to improve on personal form when meditating. The theories combine a physical and mental aspect that recreates inner form when one is seeking change.

Calculative and regulative exercises form part of the proposal given in these books in order to build inner energy. Tai chi moves help in controlling blood pressure by offering relaxation. They are recommended by cardiologists because they result in more energy and make the heart healthier.

The experiences of senior masters shared through the pages are incredible. The book is useful to persons who have been concentrating on soft art and would like to cross over. Some of the moves discussed by the masters include Qigong standing meditation and the Grasp bird tail. The latter is achieved through motion.

The target for the title is both amateurs and experienced artists. It offers a simplistic guide on how these skills can be mastered. The author insists on consistency in practice as the best way to achieve desired results. Simple moves must be mastered as well if an individual desires to make a difference in martial arts.

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

The Masters of Perception closes the chapter on this trilogy and was released in 2013. It goes beyond the power and breadth exhibited by the master studied by Jan Sifu to describe the extraordinary depth and subtleness displayed by this master. The volumes seek to exalt and highlight the powers in stillness. The books are available online at prices that guarantee value for money.




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