Fire Dragon Meridian Qigong is a traditional Chinese internal alchemy method that embodies the spirit of the rising dragon, an auspicious symbol of transformation in Chinese culture. The form works directly on the acupuncture meridians, releasing areas of stagnation and bringing the physical and emotional body into a balanced state of well-being. This Qigong form implements special visualization and breathing techniques in addition to movements that imitate sparks arising from a bonfire and swirling upward like a spiraling dragon. Stoking our 'inner fire' melts away the 'ice', or the areas of blockage and disease, opens our energetic pathways and allows the smooth flow of Qi in our meridians. The Fire Dragon practice follows the traditional internal alchemy process, where Jing (essence) transforms to Qi (vital energy), Qi transforms to Shen (spirit), and Shen returns to Emptiness. Fire Dragon Meridian Qigong is a key Qigong form for those seeking healing from cancer and other significant health challenges, and is the practice the authors turned to in order to transform the grief over their son's death. The book provides background information and a detailed description of the form itself, illustrated with calligraphy, meridian drawings, and photographs throughout.

Honorable Mention - 2014 Eric Hoffer Award This book offers beginner a smart way to learn qigong (chi kung), the ancient Chinese system of gentle breathing, stretching, and strengthening movements. You will use the Eight Pieces of Brocade, one of the most popular qigong healing exercise sets, to improve your overall health and well-being. Commonly known in China as the Ba Duan Jin, these exercises have been practiced for over 1,000 years. Choose the sitting set, the standing set, or both. Learn how to activate the qi energy and blood circulation in your body, helping to stimulate your immune system, strengthen your internal organs, and give you abundant energy. *Clear photographs show you correct postures*Concise instructions tell you what to do*Details inform you how the movements help*Qigong theory explains why the exercises work*Translations of ancient Chinese poetry provide key concepts to help you improve your practice No matter your age or your physical condition, the Eight Pieces of Brocade is a wonderful way to improve your health and well-being.

This form of Qi Gong was developed by Shaolin priests and brought to the West from Beijing in the mid-1980s. It is an ancient Chinese discipline with links to Martial Arts and Chinese medicine. The book includes 16 basic exercises, and they can be practised anywhere, at any time, to prolong life, to heal, and to cultivate personal power by transmitting and absorbing Qi simultaneously. The theory of meridians and how energy courses throughout the body is covered here, and this work examines how they relate to Chinese medicine; in particular acupuncture. Also included are instructions for healing specific ailments, for preventing disease, and for increasing energy.

Miyamoto Musashi, who lived in Japan in the fifteenth century, was a renowned samurai warrior. He has become a martial arts icon, known not just as an undefeated dueler, but also as a master of battlefield strategy. Kenji Tokitsu turns a critical eye on Musashi's life and writings, separating fact from fiction, and giving a clear picture of the man behind the myth. Musashi's best-known work, "The Book of Five Rings," provides timeless insight into the nature of conflict. Tokitsu translates and provides extensive commentary on that popular work, as well as three other short texts on strategy that were written before it, and a longer, later work entitled "The Way to Be Followed Alone." Tokitsu is a thoughtful and informed guide, putting the historical and philosophical aspects of the text into context, and illuminating the etymological nuances of particular Japanese words and phrases. As a modern martial artist and a scholar, Tokitsu provides a view of Musashi's life and ideas that is accessible and relevant to today's readers and martial arts students.

This thoroughly revised edition of "Muay Thai: Advanced Thai Boxing Techniques "teaches intermediate Muay Thai fighters how to counter a wide range of opponents' attacks. Author Christoph Delp explains the rules and ceremonial procedures unique to Muay Thai competition, demonstrates historical and modern techniques, provides training tips, and details the benefits of training in Thailand--experiencing the art in its country of origin.
The primary focus of "Muay Thai""Counter Techniques" is on counter-tactics, or techniques used to counter an attack from one's opponent. Muay Thai is a martial art with a variety of impressive techniques; every attack technique can be countered with a large number of variants. No two fighters will react to an attack in the same way, because while most Muay Thai fighters learn the same basic techniques (as presented in Delp's earlier book "Muay Thai Basics"), each fighter will go on to learn a wide variety of secondary techniques and will adapt them to his or her individual fighting style. This edition includes new full-color photographs throughout in which many well-known Thai boxers--including champions like Saiyok Pumphanmuang, Kem Sitsongpeenong, and many others--demonstrate the most important techniques for competitive success. Suitable for Thai boxers as well as mixed martial arts (MMA) fighters, "Muay Thai Counter Techniques" is a useful addition to the library of anyone seeking to add more techniques into their repertoire and take their training to the next level.

Cut to the very core of what it means to be successful in the martial arts. Earning a black belt can be the most rewarding experience of a lifetime, but getting there takes considerable planning. Whether your interests are in the classical styles of Asia or in today's Mixed Martial Arts, this book prepares you to meet every challenge. Whatever your age, whatever your gender, you will benefit from the wisdom of master martial artists around the globe, who share more than 300 years of combined training experience. Benefit from their guidance during your development into a first-class black belt. The Wisdom of...* Iain Abernethy* Dan Anderson* Loren Christensen* Jeff Cooper* Wim Demeere* Aaron Fields* Lawrence Kane* Rory Miller* Martina Sprague* Phillip Starr* Jeff Stevens* Kris Wilder ...and many more. Packed with actionable information, The Way to Black Belt will teach you how to set goals, find a good instructor, monitor your progress, overcome plateaus in your training, take advantage of learning opportunities, and work through the inevitable injuries that come with rigorous martial arts training. Putting your skills to the test at each developmental stage of your training requires a certain mental 'clarity.' The authors examine what this means, how to find it, and how to make sure that when the time comes you are 100% prepared. If you are serious about your martial arts training, The Way to Black Belt will arm you with the information you need to swiftly become a highly skilled, well-qualified black belt.

Book of the Year Award Finalist - Foreword Magazine Originally published in 1976, this authoritative work has been the guide for thousands of Taekwondo practitioners as they advance in their training. Whether your training is for self-defense, forms competition, or in preparation for the Olympic games, this newly revised edition provides beginner to Black Belt level training to assist you on your journey in Taekwondo. Contents include: * History, Philosophy, and Principles* Calisthenics* Stances* Basic Striking - Human Weapons, and Vital Points* Movements and Footwork* Strikes, Blocking and Kicking Techniques* Sparring and Breaking Techniques* Self-Defense Techniques* Eight Palgwe Forms - recommended for promotion of all color belts and 1st dan black belt by The United States Taekwondo Association (USTA), and used in sanctioned International Taekwondo competitions.* Eight Taegeuk Forms - required for promotion of all color belts and 1st dan black belt by The World Taekwondo Federation (WTF), and used in sanctioned International Taekwondo competitions.* Rules and regulations of the World Taekwondo Federation, including sparring and Poomse (forms) competitions Rules and regulations of the World Taekwondo Federation, including sparring and Poomse (forms) competitions. The ever-increasing popularity of Taekwondo is apparent by the dedication of the tens of millions of practitioners worldwide, and by the inclusion of Taekwondo in the summer Olympic games. With all its popularity, it is paramount that the art be handed down in a clear, knowledgeable, and sustainable way - this book does just that.

Qigong Massage, one of the oldest methods of healing, is built upon five thousand years of progress and a highly refined, solid theoretical foundation. Used to improve health, slow down aging, and treat many types of illnesses, Qigong massage is a wide and deep healing science, and the root of many other popular forms of massage therapy. This comprehensive text by world renowned Qigong scholar, Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming, presents the fundamental techniques and theory of Qigong massage that therapists can use to enhance their skills, and deepen their knowledge and application of Qi (energetic) healing. Not only for therapists! Novices will find the instruction and techniques in this book practical and useful for recovering from fatigue, aches & pains, tension and more. A special section on Self-Massage is presented to help those in need of massage treatment benefits, but who lack a partner or therapist. With over five hundred photographs and illustrations in this book, Dr. Yang will be your guide into the art and science of Chinese Qigong Massage.

The Principles for Understanding Kata are Largely Unknown - Until Now The ancient masters developed kata, or "formal exercises," as fault-tolerant methods to preserve their unique, combat-proven fighting systems. Unfortunately, they deployed a two-track system of instruction where an 'outer circle' of students unknowingly received modified forms with critical details or important principles omitted. Only the select 'inner circle' that had gained a master's trust and respect would be taught okuden waza, the powerful hidden applications of kata. The theory of deciphering kata applications (kaisai no genri) was once a great mystery revealed only to trusted disciples of the ancient masters in order to protect the secrets of their systems. Even today, while the basic movements of kata are widely known, advanced practical applications and sophisticated techniques frequently remain hidden from the casual observer. The principles and rules for understanding kata are largely unknown. This groundbreaking book unveils these methods, not only teaching you how to analyze your kata to understand what it is trying to tell you, but also helping you to utilize your fighting techniques more effectivelyboth in self-defense and in tournament applications. Fifteen general principles to identify effective techniques: *Twelve discrete rules for deciphering martial applications*Comprehensive insights into kata history, strategy and tactics*Vital physiological considerations*Well organized materials for easy reference

A brilliant and captivating insight into the bizarre nature of contemporary Japan. Adrift in Tokyo, teaching giggling Japanese highschool girls how to pronounce Tennyson correctly, Robert Twigger came to a revelation about himself: he'd never been fit. In a bid to escape the cockroach infestation and sweaty squalor of a cramped apartment in Fuji Heights, Twigger sets out to cleanse his body and his mind. Not knowing his fist from his elbow the author is sucked into the world of Japanese martial arts, and the brutally demanding course of budo training taken by the Tokyo Riot Police, where any ascetic motivation soon comes up against blood-stained dogis and fractured collarbones. In Angry White Pyjamas Robert Twigger skilfully blends the ancient with the modern - the ultra-traditionalism, ritual and violence of the dojo (training academy) with the shopping malls, nightclubs and scenes of everyday Tokyo life in the twenty-first century - to provide an entertaining and captivating glimpse of contemporary Japan.

Finalist - 2004 Book of the Year Award by ForeWord Magazine All too frequently, martial arts practitioners study their art without truly understanding where it comes from, how it was developed, and why it was created in the first place. Indeed, many don't care - and if you feel this way, you should put this book down. For the rest of us, who have taken our art beyond tournaments, it is reasonable to expect that we want to uncover the past. We want to understand the where, why and how of martial art development. We are intellectually curious about our combative history. To study the combative arts is to understand the circumstances of their development and to gain insights into the views and ethics of the societies that created them. As we travel back in time, we see consistent evidence of martial systems being influenced by those that came before and/or invaded. We also see the use of 'pre-arranged' fighting patterns kata to transmit proven techniques from one generation to the next. It is this transmission of martial knowledge, through kata and other forms of communication, that this book will explore. The author will demonstrate that pre-arranged fighting techniques katas were used by ancient Greek, Egyptian, Asian, African and European societies. And that Poetry, Dance, and Song were also significant methods of preserving and transmitting battle-tested fighting tactics through the ages. The purpose of kata training is not to become bound by the form but to transcend the form itself - to evolve.

While the old adage, "those who can't do, teach," is not entirely true, all too often "those who can do" cannot teach effectively. This book is unique in that it offers a holistic approach to teaching martial arts; incorporating elements of educational theory and communication techniques typically overlooked in budo. Teachers will improve their abilities to motivate, educate, and retain students, while students interested in the martial arts will develop a better understanding of what instructional method best suits their needs. *A tactical toolset useful to anyone's teaching style*Improve your ability to motivate, educate, and retain students*Explains how to optimize time and attention*Designed to individual preferences and learning styles*Effective for both children and adultsThe author's approach balances the reality that martial arts instructs are responsible for ensuring the safety of practitioners who learn potentially deadly techniques with the truism that if their classes are not enjoyable and productive no one will participate in them.

This book combines academic expertise and philosophical inquiry with the practical expression of T'ai Chi. The authors combine eastern philosophy and the wisdom of T'ai Chi as expressed through a Master. The result is a harmonious blend of Taoist philosophy and the everyday use of its principles through the Chinese art of T'ai Chi Ch'uan. The exploration of Taoism and T'ai Chi begins by examining their origins and affiliations under the title of Beginnings. Subsequent chapters take up the themes of Harmony (expressing the duality and interrelation of yin and yang); The Way (which looks at the philosophy of the Tao and the path that leads to its practical expression through T'ai Chi); Change (which examines the influence of the I Ching and the Eight Energies); Direction (an analysis of the Five Elements); and Energy (which explores alchemy and the vital energy of ch'i). The primary focus is on Movement and Stillness, which harmonizes the softness of movement with the stillness of the inner self -- leading to the theme of Unity, the ultimate goal of philosophical Taoism and the practical dimensions of that philosophy in T'ai Chi.

The old Kendo teachers loved to ask their new students "What is Kendo?" Then they would sit back and listen to them philosophize about the way of the sword. The question is like a Zen question. If you find an answer, it will always be wrong for there is no answer. Kendo is something different to each and every student who picks up a Japanese sword. Old Kenjitsu had no rules. Modern Kendo sometimes described as sport Kendo, does. This is the difference between the two. To learn Kendo properly you must not think of it or practice it as a sport. You must think of it as a way of life. When taking up Kendo the student must keep in mind that the Japanese sword is like no other sword in the world and the skills required to master it are as ancient as time itself. This book addresses advance level Kendo skills including equipment, exercises, wazas and the last three katas of the All Japan Kendo Federation, which uses the short sword (Wakizashi). *Equipment of Kendo and its care*Advanced Waza*Fundamental Movements*All Japan Kendo Federation Short Sword (Kodachi) Katas*About the Samurai and his swords*Sword Collecting*Sword Nomenclature

The origins of Liuhebafa (also called Water Boxing) can be traced back to the Daoist sage Chen Tuan (c. 871-989 A.D.). Chen is a mystical figure whose advice and perspective was sought by ancient Chinese Emperors. Liuhebafa was the last of the internal methods to be taught outside China. Even inside China, Liuhebafa had an almost mythic quality. Among the groups of inner circle students, Liuhebafa was graduate study in the internal arts. Liuhebafa's Five Character Secrets (of Li Dong Feng) are the original precepts of this rare internal martial art known as Huayue Xinyi Liuhebafaquan. Li Dong Feng discovered aged manuscripts of Chen Tuan, during an expedition to Chen's ancient mountain home. Realizing the importance of what he had found, Li remained on Mount Hua until he mastered the material in the manuscripts. Li returned to his home and then recorded all he had learned on Mount Hua in one hundred and thirty-four verses now known as The Five Character Secrets of Li Dong Feng. This is the only existing treatise on the original principles of Liuhebafa. This book contains the original Chinese treatise of Li Dong Feng, Pinyin Romanization of the Chinese characters, word for word translation, literal translation, interpretive translation and the author's commentary on the meaning of each verse. There is more here than meets the eye. It is wise to approach the Secrets with a beginner's mind. Imagine being beckoned to sit by the fire. Lean a little closer to better hear the master as he recites the lines that will open the doors of your mind and heart.

From the balletic intensity of Bruce Lee to the gravity-defying swordplay of "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, " the Chinese Martial Arts film has captured audiences' imaginations around the world, while absorbing influences ranging from Beijing Opera to computer games. Its global impact can be seen in the Hollywood crossover of stars like Jackie Chan and Hong Kong-influenced films like "The Matrix." In this wide-ranging study, Leon Hunt looks at the mythic allure of the Shaolin Temple, the 'Clones' of Bruce Lee, gender-bending swordswomen, and the knockabout comedy of Sammo Hung, bringing new insights to a hugely popular and yet critically neglected genre. In addition, he considers the impact of new technologies on a genre focused on physical performance, from the 'wire fu' of Jet Li to the digital 'stars' of console games like Tekken. Films discussed include both popular and cult classics like "Game of Death, Fist of Legend, The 36th Chamber of Shaolin" and "Drunken Master."

In this book, the author takes us on a tour of the Samurai code of Bushido. He talks of his encounters with the descendants of famous samurai' of the past. We are taken to ancient Japan to meet the most influential samurai through the memories of their descendants as told to the author by members of those very samurai families We learn about the many rituals of the sword and discover how they were made, cared for and tested. The author instructs us on the use of the sword with over twenty traditional sword drawing techniques and sparring routines. Discover what made the Samurai such lethal swordsmen. Learn the "one cut" techniques of the Samurai. For all styles and all levels of experience.

Having a light-hearted attitude towards living is helpful in finding the truth of life" says Yanling Lee Johnson when asked how do we live a happy and healthy life?Incorporating simple qigong exercises into our daily routine can have profound effects on our health, happiness and longevity. Qigong isn't always that difficult to do, we need good information, a sincere attitude and patience to receive the wonderful results that qigong practice can reward us with. In this book, we will explore Qigong as it realates to our soul and spirit; Qigong as it is taught and practiced in modern China; and we will learn many useful Qigong exercises that we can use today to improve our health, refine our spirit, and even increase our sexual pleasures.Learn about "immortality" in terms of Qigong practiceUnderstand the relationship between Qigong, Soul and SpiritExplore recent Qigong experiments in modern ChinaLearn many practical Qigong exercises for improving your health

Walking should be one of the most natural things we do. Most of us have been walking almost all of our lives. However, many have learned walking in a haphazard way. Wearing improper shoes, modeling ourselves after others whose walking is inefficient, and wrong ideas about how our body works are all factors that take their toll on us over time. Because walking is natural, it is not hard to improve it to the point where it becomes meditation and improves our health at the same time. For Tai Chi practitioners, walking provides an excellent opportunity to augment, refine, and reinforce Tai Chi principles and bridge the gap between formal practice and everyday life. For non-practitioners, Tai Chi Walking trains us in walking concepts for improving health, balance, peace-of-mind and safety. *If you hurt after a long day on your feet, this book is for you.*Learn how to walk properly and naturally.*Discover why poor walking posture can damage your health.*Understand how proper walking can increase longevity and vitality.

More and more people all over the world are studying Tai Chi. No matter what style they study, what direction they take, or what level they are at, all agree on one thing: Tai Chi is a limitless journey and there is always more to be learned. There are so many questions along the way and everyone has them, students and teachers alike, questions that are fundamental to all styles of Tai Chi, fundamental to all learning processes. Inside Tai Chi will prepare anyone taking the journey for what to expect along the way, offering practical advice, observations, training exercises and detailed discussions on the learning process. It will help students learnand teachers teachmore effectively, offering real life tools such as stress reduction along with invaluable Tai Chi specific tools such as advanced rooting exercises. Chock-full of insights, advice, and observations (testimonials too) from a long time teacher, Inside Tai Chi is designed to help you get the most from your practice. Explore all that Tai Chi can be, as a physical discipline, as well as a mental, emotional, and spiritual discipline. Inside Tai Chi will not only enrich your practice but your entire life. * Deepen your understanding for great Tai Chi.* Inspiration and advice for a lifetime of practice.* For all styles and all levels of experience.

In the martial arts, kata are the prearranged and choreographed dance-like forms used to convey the intricacies of a particular style to the practitioner. In a sense they are the physical form of an oral tradition, (a form of knowledge transference that many believe extends back several thousand years), training not only the body, but the mind and spirit. Kata are the basis for which modern day karate techniques have developed and hence kata are considered the 'textbooks' of the martial arts. Kata is often called the mother of Karate. Bunkai is a kind of analysis (meaning, 'to disassemble') - a much neglected form of study within Karate. These self-defense applications are what give the kata their true meaning and purpose. For the old masters, those of whom may have only practiced one or two kata their entire lives, the repetitions demanded of kata never became a burden because of the meaning, the bunkai. In thousands of schools around the world today, the various kata of Karate are taught and practiced. Unfortunately, not many know, or care to teach, the bunkai, referring to them a mysterious 'secrets.' In Shihan Te: The Bunkai of Kata, these 'secrets" are revealed. * Useful for all styles of Karate.* The key to understanding Karate ...and yourself!* Discover the rich history and deeper meaning of the Martial Arts.