Power. Energy, and the Six Harmonies

This past year, I have been teaching my black belts a lot about power and energy in kung fu. When you talk about power, everyone knows what you are talking about and they can relate to the concept. Confusion and controversy become issues the second you start talking about energy.

A constant rant of mine is about the difference between practicing the martial arts and being a martial artist. The difference between the two is obvious in the mental, intellectual, and spiritual realms. Fewer people, however, are aware of the physical differences between the two. The gap is found in the depth of understanding of the source of energy and the awareness required to master the control of energy.

Form practice is all about mastering the six harmonies. A person studying the martial arts always focuses on the execution and application of a technique. A martial artist expands their focus to include the space between techniques and the harmonization of the body to expand the explosiveness of their techniques by going beyond the physical, muscular power and tapping into harmonized energy.

Much of true martial arts is taught less and less with each passing year. Fewer and fewer people are willing to dedicate the years required to master the intricacies and understanding necessary to utilize and control chi. With no one to pass their knowledge to, the real art is in danger of becoming extinct as this two thousand year old knowledge ends with the lives of present masters.

“If you have knowledge, let others light their candles in it.” - Margaret Fuller (1810 - 1850)

Boot Camp

SRKF’s annual boot camp is a highlight for me every year. It is a day like no other. Limits are surpassed and doors are opened. It is hard not to be inspired and motivated after taking part in an event like the boot camp.

Life is full of endless opportunities. Many lives are filled with regrets over opportunities missed. For me, an opportunity can be found in every moment. The challenge is to stay in the moment so that the opportunities are recognized and acted upon.

A big part of success is being in the right place at the right time. We cam’t always predict the right time but the right place is usually something we have control over. The right place on August 6th, is boot camp.

“Be sure you put your feet in the right place, then stand firm." - Abraham Lincoln (1809 - 1865)

The Value

I teach a martial art. I don’t teach fighting. The discipline I have to apply to master the art is where the value of the art resides. I use the physical discipline of kung fu to hone my body and mind so that I not only evolve physically but emotionally, intellectually, and spiritually as well. This is the value of an art and this is the difference between being a martial artist and only “practicing” a martial art.

As an instructor, it is difficult for me to inspire my students to look beyond the kicking and punching. Each of my black belts, and potential black belts, must journal and log 1000 acts of kindness. They help fund the education of three African school girls. They engage as activists in their community, taking responsibility for the change they want to see. Above all, I try to inspire them to reflect before they react.

Our world is increasingly becoming polarized by fear unmindful reactions. I see martial arts, true martial arts, as being more relevant than ever in an increasingly volatile society.

Chasing after the world brings chaos. Allowing it all to come to me brings peace.
- Zen Gatha

A Day To Remember

Canada Day is one of my favourite days of the year. It is a day that I always spend with family and those I love. I truly appreciate every opportunity Canada affords me and I am proud that my country’s government is finally setting an example of tolerance and compassion in a world divided by nationalistic propaganda and fear.

We did something different this year for Canada Day. Silent River Kung Fu spent the entire day performing Dragon Dances, Lion Dances, and kung fu demonstrations as part of Spruce Grove’s Canada Day celebrations. I think we set a new school record by performing five lion dances and five demonstrations with three dragon dances in around five hours. The day represented a huge commitment from my I Ho Chuan team and their families. You guys are family to me and I loved every moment that I got to share with you all.

The gratitude I feel for the experience of the day is immense. Everyone who shared the day with me added something special to make the day all the more perfect. I do have to single out Sifu Randy Langner for his engagement and leadership throughout the day. Randy, you were a great sport and it is because of you that I have a memory anchor to keep the experience of the day for the rest of my life. You are one of the most dedicated students I have and the respect I have for you is endless.

“When I’m in Canada, I feel this is what the world should be like.” - Jane Fonda (b. 1937)