
Contrast in power and range. Differences between external and internal structural power generation in striking ranges.
De-mystifying short and zero range power in Baguazhang. Explanation of why sensitivity drills and listening skills lay the foundation for all skill in all martial arts. Demonstration and exercises using Lift Cauldron Push Down Mountain.
Basic mechanics for developing short power with the core movements of Baguazhang as seen in Green Dragon Stretches Claws and Wild Goose Leaves Flock.
Transitions and basic mechanics to find Giant Eagle and Spearing Heaven and Earth. Working on the transitions of these two movements will develop listening skill required to expand through your structure properly and begin to work on developing the small movements for short power.
How to find the expansion and roundness, peng, in Lion Plays with Ball. This exercises develops a deep expansive coiling and wrapping methodology while keeping the arms round, and the tendons of the wrists engaged while you move through the structure of the movement.
Review of coiling and wrapping and the use of Lift Cauldron Push Down Mountain with one arm to develop natural flow on each side of the body to be able to express fajing and structural power.
Drills to develop short power in Baguazhang using structural movements learned in previous lessons. Discussion of short to zero range power and how to generate it in the body by practicing simple drills. Coiling and wrapping methods are discussed and demonstrated as they relate to the palm structures previously taught.
Specific movements identified by the instructor that will help refine a student's movements in order for them to move more efficiently with Bagua and develop power. With follow-along instruction and discussion of concepts, these exercises assist a student to refine their Bagua practice, further develop body structure, and whole body power.
Baguazhang is a unique whole body art the teaches a person to be completely aware of their body from head to toe. The slow steady movements develop a profound level of awareness, both physically and mentally. Much like Taichi/Taijiquan, the gentle movements slow down the brain and allow a person to connect with themselves in a way unlike any other physical discipline.
Baguazhang is classified as an advanced form of Qigong conditioning, using both structural alignment and breath work to amplify and deepen the cultivation of Qi. QI/Chi is the energy that fills and surrounds the body, that allows our bodies to move and function and is similar to the rays of light that we receive from the sun every day. Through the use of spiralling movements that open and close the joints and body cavities, much like modern day somatic therapy, a person can rewire their nervous system and change their body chemistry down to their cellular function.
This change in the body is supported by recent studies that have shown a person can change their DNA by the wayt they simply think. In much the same weay Qi is cultivated to both strengthen and heal the body by using the focus of our minds to step out of our Monkey Mind chatter and enter in a Zen like state of Flow unique to the art of Baguazhang.