PRANAYAMA OF KUNG FU (QIGONG)

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Pranayama of Kung Fu  or Qigong

To bring about positive transformations in the Body and Mind, we must understand how the Qi or Prana or Vital energy works in our body. As a martial artist especially, we need to understand the many levels of meaning from how a simple physical breath is transform to the energy of Consciousness itself, so that we can design our training to facilitate and achieve the maximum effect.

Qi or Prana is not only the basic life-force, it is the universal energy working at every level, manifesting the entire Universe. Some Qigong masters can harness Qi to heal, to create heat, to move people at a distance. As martial artists, physiologically we can use it to detoxify, cleanse, purify, strengthen and energies our Body.

On a psychological level, the five functions or movements of the vital energy or pranas called vayus, namely:-

  1.  The Maha-vayu which governs our receptivity to feeling, and knowledge through the mind and senses. 
  2. The Apana-vayu governs our ability to eliminate negative thoughts and emotions
  3.  The Samana-vayu gives us contentment and a balanced mind.
  4.  The Udana-vayu gives joy or enthusiasm and helps awaken our higher spiritual and creative potentials
  5. The Vyana-vayu gives free movement and independence of mind

Many a time we need to breathe deeply to gain our composure, both physically and mentally, during combative encounters or when need to exert force. It is for these reasons, martial artists must practice breathing exercises ( Pranayama) or Qigong.

In "Fa Jin", breath is used to amplify the issuing power. In certain movements or techniques, breath is also used to lead, control and subdue the opponent with full awareness. Breath work is definitely very effective  and necessary in close encounters, Qinna and pressure point manipulation.

Exactly how the five energy flow and function is a profound wisdom by itself. Following are a brief description and introduction:-

  • Maha-vayu -- creates a focus to lift, lengthen and open the upper body. As you inhale feel an energy flowing up the torso from the belly to the forehead. "Tu" correspond to this flow of energy, which is a "Fire" element connected to the Heart energy center. Bui Sao and Fa Sao are two good examples

  • Apana-vayu -- creates a focus to ground and stabilize the lower body. As you exhale feel an energy flowing down from the top of the head to the tailbone. "Chen" correspond to this sinking energy flow, which is a "Earth" element connected to the perineum energy center. The very obvious examples are Chum Sao and Lap Sao.

  • Samana-vayu -- creates a focus to open and relax the body. As you exhale feel the breath falling in front, sides and back of the torso. "Tun" correspond to this energy flow, which is a "Water" element connected to the Navel energy center. Wu Sao and and Juk Sao can take the stability of the opponent if the "Tun" is done properly.

  • Udana-vayu -- creates a focus to maintain a long spine and correct posture. As you exhale feel the breath circulating around and through the head and the neck. "Fu"  correspond to this energy flow, which is a "Air" element connected to the Throat and Third eye energy centers. Rise up with Tok Sao and protect with Kei Jaan to "float" the opponent.

  • Vyana-vayu -- creates a focus of strength and fluid movement of the body. As you inhale and exhale feel the breathe radiating outward from the navel to the limbs. The three basic elliptical motions correspond to the flow of energy, which links to all the energy centers. The Chum Kui and Bui Jee rotational energy is a force to be reckoned with if incorporate this radiating energy flow.

The above awareness will improve your respiratory system, eliminations system, digestion, assimilation of nutrients, sensory and brain, the motor impulses and muscular movements. The Breath of Life is the Prana, Qi or Vital energy, which determines your quality of Life. So work with the Four Elements of "Fire", "Earth", "Water" and "Air" to further bring your martial skills to the next level. Will be an interesting topic to talk about.

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