TEMPLE KUNG FU
A SPIRITUAL TRADITION
The practice of martial arts without an accompanying spiritual discipline leads to imbalance.
This predominantly Western trend is one of the reasons why martial arts practice has mostly been reduced to brutal competition at the most basic level.
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Temple Kung Fu retains the core spiritual disciplines that have been a part of our tradition for over 1500 years.
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This includes philosophical discourses to stimulate the mind, meditation exercises to increase one's awareness, healing modalities to promote health and longevity, and energy work to encourage students to experience the deep sense of well-being that only accompanies a well-rounded training regime.
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It is important to note that the spiritual component of Temple Kung Fu training is not religious but aimed at the total integration of the whole person.
The spiritual component of your training is directed towards your inner being and is guided by practical exercises that are experiential in nature.
THE INTERNAL ARTS
Tai Chi, Hsing I, and Baguazhang are three internal martial arts that focus on physical movements and delve into the realm of spirituality and energy cultivation. These arts are rooted in ancient Chinese philosophy and seek to harmonize the mind, body, and spirit.
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Hsing I, often called "Mind-Intention Boxing," emphasizes the unity of body and mind. It focuses on generating power from the core and directing it with focused intention. Hsing I practitioners cultivate a strong presence of mind and develop mental clarity, concentration, and single-mindedness. The practice involves repetitive movements that allow practitioners to explore the internal aspects of their being, enhancing their awareness and cultivating a deep sense of inner strength and resilience.
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Baguazhang, or "Eight Trigram Palm," is characterized by its circular and evasive footwork patterns. The practice of Baguazhang involves walking in circular patterns while performing various palm strikes, kicks, and throws. It incorporates elements of Taoist philosophy, with the circle representing the continuous flow of life and change. Through the practice of Baguazhang, practitioners seek to harmonize their movements with the natural rhythms of the universe, cultivating flexibility, adaptability, and a deep sense of grounding.
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Tai Chi, also known as Tai Chi Chuan, embodies the principles of Yin and Yang, balance, and harmony. Through slow, flowing movements, practitioners cultivate a deep sense of relaxation, mindfulness, and inner peace. Tai Chi emphasizes the cultivation of "Qi" or life energy, which is believed to flow through the body's energy channels or meridians. By cultivating and harmonizing this energy, practitioners aim to improve their overall well-being, enhance vitality, and achieve a greater connection with the universe.
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In summary, Hsing I, Baguazhang, and Tai Chi transcend the physical aspects of martial arts, delving into spirituality and energy cultivation. By incorporating principles of mindfulness, balance, and harmony, practitioners of these arts can experience profound physical, mental, and spiritual transformation, unlocking the potential for inner peace, self-discovery, and a deeper connection with the world around them.