Therefore Ba Gua emphasizes continuous movement, countering and re-countering, and dynamic states of change and transformation. Combat can be a changing, unpredictable situation. In part this arises from the connection of Ba Gua and the Yi Jing (Book of Changes). Yin and Yang are concepts commonly used in any discussion of Ba Gua Zhang. This idea of transformation can expressed in many ways. That is why it is said that the basic skills of stepping and turning can create “1,000 changes and 10,000 transformations.” Further, in both training and combat there is an emphasis on internal stillness while the body is in motion, constantly changing and transforming, able to create infinite techniques seamlessly linked together.
TOM BISIO TRIANGLES OF CHINESE MEDICINE FULL
The forms and techniques of Ba Gua are manifestations of the principles of whole body coordination or “internal connection.” These internal connections are predicated on using circular and spiral forces to overcome straight line and arced attacks and to concentrate and suddenly release the body’s full power in combat. In addition, circle walking calms the mind and trains both the spirit and internal energy. Martial arts is not as good as walking the circle.”2 Hence circle walking is considered one of the key exercises in Ba Gua, because it aids in evasion and counterattack and enables one to literally turn the opponent’s corner in combat. In the martial arts, Qi has an intimate relationship with the power and movement generated through the muscles and bones in coordination with the breath. Proper or correct Qi maintains and renews the measured orderly changes that comprise normal bodily processes. In Chinese medicine Qi is the basis for the body’s activity, but the activity itself is also Qi. For now, it can be understood as “energy” or “vital force.” Qi also refers to breathing and respiration as well as to mists, fog, air and vapor –things that are perceptible. Dong was often quoted as saying, “training in 1 It is not known for certain what martial arts Dong studied in his youth, but there is evidence that he combined martial arts with Taoist meditation practices which involved keeping the mind empty while walking in a circle. (Song 3) Although there are various theories about the origins of Ba Gua Zhang, Dong Hai Chuan is considered by most people to be the founder of Ba Gua. (Song 12) and Curve the step and straighten the foot to extend forward. The importance of circle walking is stressed in The Thirty-Six Songs, the oral instructions for correct training handed down through the generations: This palm is quite different from others, It is skillful to walk forward and raise the foot. Ba Gua’s unique feature is its use of curved steps and its practice of walking around a circle to train the mind and body and develop whole body power. This, combined with relaxation and connection of mind and body, produces an explosive, coordinated power that comes from the unified action of the entire body and is not dependent on the relative strength of the external musculature. The actions of the whole body are coordinated with the rotation of the waist and the walking action of the legs. Because Jing in turn promotes the Qi and Shen (Spirit Spiritual Energy or Force)), this transformative process serves to promote health and prolong life.īa Gua Zhang or Eight Diagram Palm is a method of boxing that is characterized by footwork, evasive movement and constant change.
The other primary reason these arts are considered to be internal is due to their role as a type of internal alchemy that transforms Qi1 into Jing (Essence).
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