Some thoughts on a skill set
These are some ideas that have been buzzing through my mind recently… To be changed/developed/abandoned as appropriate… Feedback welcome!
Element 1: meditation Meditation to calm and clear the mind is a fundamental first step. Body scanning to build awareness of physical sensations. Mindfulness.
Element 2: zhan zhuangBuild body awareness, correct posture and alignment. Strength and endurance. Addressing health issues and old energies.
Element 3: Voice training, public speaking, acting techniques. Better to avoid a fight through persuasion, psychology, use of correct tone. Defuse, rather than fight or flight. Six healing sounds. Leading eventually to use of kiai.
Element 4: shi li and stepping Increased body awareness. Mind-body unity in movement.
Element 5: tui na for everyday health issues Basic treatments for self and others.
Element 6: tui shou
Element 7: san shou
There are other things that could be included, but that’s a rough idea. Any comments? Does this sound like anything that’s already being used but I don’t know about?
How about being able to fall without getting hurt?
Yes… Good suggestion! Not one that can be taught in an office environment, though, which is the idea I’m playing with at the moment
Element No. 8: post-sanshou drinking session, with proper hoppy ales imbibed to strengthen guangxi and to repair internal injuries (i.e., bruises to the ego) following a serious thrashing.
Oh, that one I can do! Although, taking the thrashing as part of a friendly exchange of skills, and not getting the ego involved, was something I Iearned pretty quickly at Master Yao’s wuguan….
You’re gonna teach sanshou in your office? Wow I wanna work for you!
How about stretching?