In today’s world it is very hard to empty the mind. Today’s seminar started with Sifu reminding us that to practise our qigong even for just 10 minutes is good for our busy minds. Enlightenment gong certainly helps in this respect. It is a complex form where one must focus on the movements and nothing else. In the lecture, Sifu told us that wise people maintain good health with regular practise. This way we build up our immune system and don’t wait for problems to arise.
Huo Tuo was a famous doctor who invented 5 Animal Play roughly 2000 years ago. Based on the 5 elements of Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water he developed movements that mimicked Deer, Bird, Monkey, Tiger and Bear. In our Wild Goose system, we can see movements which are very similar to the movements of these animals. All of which benefit our internal organs. Enlightenment Gong possesses very similar movements to these.
The form is now nearing completion for all. Sifu broke it into 3 parts where he demonstrated, polished, answered questions and paired everyone up to practise. Sifu finished with a new piece that tests one’s coordination and memory. With practise this new part will not be a problem. Consistency and complete attention will pay dividends.
To finish the lecture Sifu told a story the moral of which is; “If something does not belong to you then don’t take it”.
This was a very enjoyable seminar and I look forward to the next part. Many thanks Sifu.
by Peadar Hanratty
Student Comments
Really enjoy the challenge of moving together with the rigid and flexible parts of the sword. Thanks for sharing White Crane Sword with us, Sigong! -Kay
Really enjoying the White Crane Sword. Picked up quite a few details from the new part today, particularly what the empty hand is doing. It is so much fun playing with the tassel, and so good to challenge the brain! Thank you Sigong. Christine
Another challenge this weekend with the new warm-up movement, but in practising these moves we can begin to appreciate the skill in controlling the long tassel. As usual the seminar was extremely enjoyable, and I can’t wait to learn more. Thank-you Sifu.
Rick
I’m loving this form more every time. It is interesting that it forces you to train flow – you can’t just stop in the middle of a movement, think about the next bit, and then continue. If you do that the tassel has stopped and the movement won’t work.
Thank you Sigong.
Paul Hogg
I really enjoyed learning a new warm up and quite a long new section. With each session my understanding of how to move the tassel improves and I feel more and more addicted to the form. Thank you for a wonderful seminar. Taisigong. Daniel
The warm-up exercises are easier now and there is still a lot to learn on how best to apply the energy to the sword and the tassel. I am enjoying White Crane sword form quite a lot as it is challenging me and teaching me correct application. Thank you Sifu
-Radu