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Category Archives: Philosophy
Bagua and the Pandemic Pivot
The unprecedented changes triggered by the pandemic are ongoing. Like every school all around the world, the Academy of Martial and Internal Arts is adjusting to the changes. We struggle onward despite these challenges, but there are surely more ahead. … Continue reading
Intent
This is maybe not entirely martial, but is a beautiful demonstration of Intent. I think it will also take your mind off of your worries for a few minutes! Enjoy.
Posted in Philosophy, Principles
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Seven Experiences of Martial Training
Nowadays, everyone seems to want a practice. But the fact that martial arts practice has a path all its own may result in some disappointment to those seeking a casual gym-style experience. Such deep practice can render unexpected results. The … Continue reading
Posted in Articles, Philosophy, Principles
Tagged combat, Forms, Kung Fu, Martial Arts, meditation, relaxation, Tai Chi
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Interview with Grandteacher Adam Hsu (Added parts 4 & 5)
Adam Hsu is one of the top Kung Fu teachers in the world. He is also one of the “grandparent” teachers at the Academy, having taught both sifus Linda and Ted. In this series—the first THREE parts now posted—he begins … Continue reading
Posted in Articles, Kung Fu, Philosophy, Principles, Profiles
Tagged Adam Hsu, bagua zhang, baji quan, big spear, chang chuan, changquan, chinese martial arts, chinese weapons, hsing I chuan, Kung Fu, kung fu weapons, Li Shu Wen, Liu Yun Chiao, Long Fist, lost track style, mei hua quan, mizong quan, muslim kung fu, pachi chuan, pakua chang, pigua zhang, pikua chang, Qigong, san cai sword, spring leg boxing, sword polisher’s record, tai chi chuan, Taijiquan, tantui, weapons sparring, wutan, xing yi quan, xingyiquan
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Slow Learner
Next October, I will celebrate my 50th year in the martial arts. When I started studying, I had no idea or plan to make this a lifetime practice. I joined up for the same reason a lot of 16 year … Continue reading
Posted in Articles, Philosophy, Principles, Training
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How To Progress in the Martial Arts By Jim Mullen
Instruction, Class, Practice Practice, Instruction, Class Class, Practice, Instruction Instruction, Class, Practice After many years in the Martial Arts I’ve found myself in every possible combination of these three activities. I’ve done every combination of any two, and I’ve only used one for long periods of time.
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Testing: A Zen Story
As you watch your students test you look for something about the arts that is hard to explain… Continue reading
Wu Wei: No Way!
The young man was anxious to start martial training immediately.
Posted in Articles, Philosophy
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Pirates and Prevaricators, the truth about rank
I hear this all the time, two sides of the same story. “Black Belt 
doesn’t mean a thing!†Continue reading
Posted in Articles, Philosophy
Tagged Black Belt, Grand Master, master, professor, rank, Reiki Master, Shifu, Si Gong, Sifu
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30? 40? 50? plus…
Can you really get anything from the martial arts after the age of 30 or 40 or higher? Continue reading
Humility
There’s a time when looking less competent than you really are can be an advantage. Continue reading
10 Reasons You Don't Want to Study Kung Fu
They call it the mother of martial arts, Kung Fu. Considering its age and the powerful influence it has had on all other martial arts on the planet, this is probably true. On the other hand, as we all know, … Continue reading
Posted in Articles, Philosophy, Principles, Training
Tagged Kung Fu, tournaments, Training, transcendence
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Mindfullness: Part Two
Chinese traditional beliefs recognize “Three treasures of Life”: Jing, Chi and Shen (Essence, vital Energy and Spirit). An alchemy can occur with these treasures: a co-dependence enhancing the quality of life. These beliefs emphasize the practical and focus on simplicity.
The Four Legs
Martial arts, that is matured martial arts, stands like a firm table on four strong legs. It helps tremendously to know what they are and how these four points interact. Continue reading
