Month: September 2016
Yin and Yang
Yin and Yang are essential to understanding Wing Chun and Kung Fu. The concepts originated from observing the natural world, and the way in which it is divided into dependent opposites. “Light” cannot exist without “dark,” “up” cannot exist without “down,” and “inside” cannot exist without “outside.” Yin and Yang are not physical objects, but rather are descriptors that show the relationship or dynamic interaction with an opposite. Yin represents darkness, stillness, cold, passiveness, softness, quiet, and potential. Yang represents light, action, heat, aggression, firmness, loud,ness and expression. The Taiji Jee symbol illustrates that these two forces are not…
Geng – Wing Chun Glossary
In Wing Chun, Geng or Jing refers to energy, force, or power. It is often used to describe an action performed with focused intent or Qi. There are traditionally nine types of Jing in Wing Chun: Choung Jing – the energy used for forward motion or aggression Keng Jing – the energy used for listening or sensing Chi Jing – the energy used for sticking or adhesion Lin Jip Jing – the energy used for connecting or linking Yaan Jing or Daai Jing – the energy used for guiding or directing Jek Jip Jing – the energy used for direct…
Cheh Kuen
In Wing Chun, the concept of one fist punching forward while the other simultaneously retracts is known as Cheh Kuen. Typically, the retracting fist will possess the same power or energy as the punching fist. When retracting to a chambered position, the force of retraction is sometimes likened to a back-facing elbow strike. This concept is explored in greater depth in Level One of the Fundamental Punching Drill.
Cha Jee Sau
Cha Jee Sau is a cross-armed block that is introduced during the opening sequence of the Siu Lim Tau form in Wing Chun. It is used to mark the centerline from extreme low to extreme high and can also be used as a reference point for defining the gates. To perform Cha Jee Sau, start by extending the arms simultaneously outward and down, crossing the wrists in front of the Dan Tien. The left hand should be on top of the right. Next, bend the elbows while simultaneously turning the hands over so they end palm up. The arms…
Surya Namaskara
The “Sun Salutation” or Surya Namaskara A, is one of the primary conditioning exercises of India’s Kshatriya warriors and is considered a great way to build flexibility, strength, and body unity. The series of postures or asanas stretches and conditions the shoulders, legs, waist, and back. The traditional Ashtanga method includes holding the “Downward Dog” posture (Adho Mukha Svanasana) for five deep breaths. When done correctly, this weight-bearing partial inversion strengthens and conditions the shoulders while creating a very grounded and centered state of focus. The Sun Salutation is a flowing sequence of yoga postures that are performed in…
Suprasternal Notch
The suprasternal notch is a small indentation located at the base of the throat, also known as the jugular notch. It can be found as a small notch at the top of the sternum. In self-defense, a person may use a technique called the “suprasternal notch strike” where they thrust their fingers into the suprasternal notch, applying straight and downward pressure. This maneuver can induce choking and/or unconsciousness through the blockage or crushing of the windpipe. It’s a highly effective technique in close-combat situations, however, it should be used with caution as it can cause serious injury or even…
Kuen Kuits
Wing Chun Kuen Kuit, also known as “Words of Wisdom,” capture the finer attributes of Wing Chun Kung Fu in poetic terms. Kuen Kuit is Cantonese for “martial sayings,” “fist poems,” or “fighting songs.” Chinese martial arts use Kuen Kuit as concise, rhythmic verses that present a method or philosophy of a style. Even among different Wing Chun traditions, many sayings are recognized and shared. The origins of Wing Chun Kuen Kuit are believed to be rooted in an ancient oral tradition and are reportedly connected to southern Chinese secret societies of the 19th century. According to Grandmaster Moy Yat,…
Anatomical Planes of the Body
In Wing Chun, the human body is divided into various sectors using planes as reference points. These major planes include: Sagittal: A plane that runs down the center of the body, dividing it into left and right portions. This plane also includes the Midsagittal plane, which divides the body equally into left and right, and the Parasagittal plane, which is parallel to the midline but does not divide the body into equal left and right portions. Coronal (Frontal): A plane that runs perpendicular to the sagittal plane and divides the body into front and back (anterior and posterior) portions.…
Dan Tien
The Dan Tien, also known as the Tanden in Japanese, is the center of balance and gravity in a standing human body and is considered to be the center of Qi or life force energy. It is located on the sagittal plane or centerline, approximately three finger widths below the navel. The Dan Tien is considered to be one of the most important energy points in the body and is a fundamental reference point for all Chinese martial arts, meditation, and Chinese medicine. In Japanese martial arts, it is considered to be the source of Ki and is referred to…