Three Meditative Traditions In The Chinese Martial Arts

By Marci Glover


Warrior of Stillness is a three volume series on the power of meditation and how it relates to Chinese martial art. It describes meditative traditions in the Chinese martial arts as a result of studying under a California based master. They involve both physical and mental aspects that help an individual to achieve perfection from within.

The reader feels an instant effect upon reading the description provided. The author has a careful combination of practical suggestions, theories and anecdotes that make the book interesting to read. It also is rich in providing a historical perspective so that readers can appreciate and understand the concepts. They make it easy to achieve depth through understanding.

Successful meditation takes to account the place of Wuji. It is considered central to the body as it acts as a supporting pole. Artists who are aware of this fact increase control over their body. They are able to master their strength through this awareness. The concepts of Taiji and cylinders are described in a simple way that is understandable to all readers.

The author is particular about the centrality of Wuji as a basic when one seeks to engage in any martial art. Mastering the standing posture makes the others easier to understand. The posture requires one to spread hands and create a center of balance for the body.

Sifu Jan creates more awareness on the body mechanic in his presentations. Understanding your body frame is crucial in achieving perfect balance. It makes meditation easy to achieve for an individual. A combination of physical and mental tuning helps to align the body in readiness for change.

The book has a regulative, calculative and unique way of introducing inner energy. By experience, Tai chi relaxes the mind and helps to control blood pressure. It has been recommended by cardiologist as a natural remedy.

The experiences shared by senior masters depict the ease with which inner strength is built. An artist who has grown used to soft arts is easily assimilated through the exercises suggested. Pivotal exercises described in the book include the Grasp Bird Tail, which involves motion, and Qigong, which is achieved from a still position.

The instructions and descriptions given by Sifu wake the title useful to amateurs and seasoned artists alike. It has a simplistic guide on how the skills are developed. A lot of emphasis is put on consistency during practice and the simple moves which make a great difference.

1995 witnessed the release of the first volume in this series. It focused on the technique referred to as Qigong. The second volume was Tao of Yiquan released in 1999. The publications contain a lot of observations and descriptions as the author studied under a seasoned master.

2013 saw the release of Masters of Perception as the third volume in the trilogy. It goes beyond the power and breadth of the masters as witnessed during intense meditation. They gain extraordinary depth and subtleness that comes with years of practice. Mastery of the art, according to the author comes from concentration and practice. It has been described as one title that delivers value for money.




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