Gong Fa – Preparation for Tuina Pratitioners
Introduction to Gong Fa
“Gong Fa is the foundational training for many therapeutic methods in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), including acupuncture, Tuina, Qigong, and others. It is akin to the fundamental exercises practiced in Kungfu and various sports. Typically, we employ basic yet effective training techniques from internal Kungfu and Qigong. In my Tuina classes, I recommend the following exercises: Tiger Claw, San Ti Shi, Ba Duan Jin Qigong, and Push-Hands.
Why Gong Fa is Important
This training is both important and necessary because it:
- Strengthens the Qi and muscle power, especially in the fingers.
- Unifies the powers and channels the body’s Qi and strength to the arms and fingers.
- Relaxes the body’s muscles and optimizes the circulation of Qi.
- Unifies the body and mind.
The benefits of this training extend beyond Tuina therapists; acupuncturists can also gain significantly from it.
Tiger Claw
The training helps the body to send Qi and power to the fingers.
San Ti Shi
San Ti Shi is a fundamental stance in the Chinese martial art of Xing Yi Quan, which is known for its direct, linear movements and explosive power. This stance, also known as the “Three-Body Posture” or “Trinity Stance,” is the core of Xing Yi Quan’s practice, embodying the art’s principles of alignment, balance, and focused intent.
In San Ti Shi, the practitioner stands with one foot forward, embodying the character of a warrior ready for combat. The front foot points straight ahead, while the rear foot is turned slightly outward, creating a stable base. The weight distribution is roughly 60% on the rear leg and 40% on the front, allowing for quick movement and powerful strikes.
The arms are positioned as if holding a sphere in front of the body, with one hand extended forward at chest level and the other positioned near the waist. This arrangement facilitates the flow of Qi, or vital energy, and readies the practitioner for various attacks and defenses.
San Ti Shi is more than just a physical posture; it’s a meditative practice that cultivates internal strength, mental focus, and the harmonious movement of Qi. Regular practice of this stance can improve martial skills, health, and overall well-being.
Learn more on Xing Yi Quan on Wikipedia
Push Hands
Push Hands, also known as Tui Shou, is a two-person training drill integral to Tai Chi, a Chinese martial art famous for its gentle and flowing movements. This exercise is designed to cultivate sensitivity, balance, and awareness, key components of Tai Chi practice.
In Push Hands, partners stand facing each other and make contact through their arms. The goal is to maintain a constant, yet gentle, contact while attempting to unbalance the opponent. This exercise helps practitioners understand and apply the fundamental principles of Tai Chi in a dynamic setting. It emphasizes relaxation, yielding, sticking to, and following the opponent’s force, rather than confronting it directly.
This training develops a deep understanding of the body’s center of gravity and how to control it, enhancing stability and coordination. It also improves reflexes, promotes the flow of internal energy (Qi), and helps in understanding the practical application of Tai Chi principles in self-defense.
Push Hands is a cooperative practice where both participants learn from each other, making it not just a physical exercise but a journey of mutual growth and understanding.
Read more on Push Hands
Ba Duan Jing – Eight Brocades Qigong
Ba Duan Jing refers to the eight pieces of silk manuscripts (Figure 3.1). In ancient times, manuscripts of high value were written on silk or brocade fabrics, which were kept in a secret cabinet. Baduanjin is used to denote the eight precious ways of practicing Qigong. Baduanjin was created by Lü Dong Bing and Zhong Li Quan, around 1150-1300 in the Song dynasty, who were famous Taoist masters in history. It is one of the most popular Qigong forms practiced in China. This Qigong is primarily designed as a medical Qigong to improve health and prolong life. It is also practiced as supplementary or initial exercises for various types of martial arts.