#gong fu practice

[meeshnut]

Trying to get back into having tea as a daily practice, so here’s the last handful of sessions I took pictures of.

JTH Jinjunmei Red

A great session to wake up when I was having a slow morning.

JTH 2011 Fuding White

I got notes of fig in this white during this session 😋

& currently on the table:

JTH Sister Ai’s “Everyday” Sheng

[projectbatman193]

This ended up becomming a rest week, though I didn't plan it, I did welcome it! Been doing just some taichi and internal work, relaxing and taking it easy!

Since today is World Peace, Tai Chi and Qi Gong day I thought of posting this blast from the past. One day I decided to do Tai Chi on the rain. I love how the form and song fit well together. As I've said before recovery is just as important as your training. Besides sleep and good nutrition, I believe meditation, Tai Chi and Qi Gong can make a huge difference. Hope you have a lovely peaceful day! Batman out. 🥋☯️⚖🦇💪🏼

[pretensesoup]

So you feel like learning self defense

Self-defense classes get taught pretty frequently. They're great and will teach you a lot of techniques. On the other hand, you don't practice on an ongoing basis, which is a problem for remembering and executing the techniques. 

You could buy a gun and go to the shooting range. I don't know much about this except it seems like shooting guns accurately is harder than it looks. Also, I would not carry a gun unless you're prepared to actually shoot someone.

So: can I interest you in a martial art, perhaps?

I've been doing martial arts more on than off since Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon came out. I've been at my current dojo since about 2008. I've been involved in the following arts long enough to hold a rank: kyukido, judo, karate, aikido. I've taken the odd class in: taekwondo, wing chun, gong fu, BJJ (Brazilian jiu jitsu), kendo, and tai chi. Here's some advice on what to look for when finding a dojo:

* Is the space nice/clean? Are the vibes good?

* Do you feel like you're getting a sales pitch or an invitation to train? Do they require you to sign long contracts?

* Do they require that you buy a lot of gear thru them? Do they charge high test fees and require students to grade frequently? Are there young children who have become black belts?

* Do you like the instructor's style? Do you like the instructor as a person?

* Do you like your fellow students? What's the community like?

* Is the art itself interesting to learn?

* Do they treat each other with respect, including not injuring each other when training?

* Also, of course, proximity to your home and cost of classes is important.

Some dojos are very formal and some have only enough hierarchy to maintain a teaching environment. You don't have to become a paramilitary person to get something out of most of them, though. Also, to that point, some dojos get a little mystical--I have been to seminars on using acupuncture points, which I don't really believe in, and my current dojo often talks about chi in a way I don't really know how to think about, because my mind is pretty grounded in Western science. In a good teaching space, you don't have to feel like you're joining a cult or being forced to give up all your prior beliefs.

For me, whether or not I liked the instructor has always been the biggest determiner in whether or not I go to class. A good instructor will help you with what you're interested in, so even if competing is not your thing, you can still get a lot out of a taekwondo dojo when you find the right teacher.

Style: honestly, I think most martial arts are getting at basically the same objective, so this is less important. Also, you may live where there's just one or two dojos, so you get what you get. However, if you have choices, some things to think about. 

* There are linear martial arts (punching and kicking, like karate and taekwondo) and circular martial arts (throws and falls, like judo and aikido). Also there's grappling, which can involve throws (but not always) and chokes and joint locks (usually). And there's tai chi. Idk what to say about that. The chi tells you what to do.

* Some martial arts are sports, like taekwondo or BJJ.

* Some martial arts are very self-defensey. There's a lot of of argument in online spaces about whether they are actually useful. I could not give a smaller fuck about this discourse. 

All that said, here's my brief guide to disciplines:

I want to...

...break boards? Karate, taekwondo (TKD)

...get medals/trophies? TKD, BJJ, judo, MMA, kendo 

...learn to fall? Aikido, judo

...beat the fuck out of people? Krav maga, muai Thai, possibly BJJ or TKD depending on your sensei, maybe wing chun (also lineage-depending)

...dance? Capoera

...mystical chi stuff? Tai chi

...the stuff in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon? Gong fu + a lot of visual effects

...whatever Jackie Chan does? Mostly karate, I think, except in the Drunken Master series, where he does drunken boxing. I do not think practitioners of it actually drink, but I honestly have never seen it IRL.

...Bruce Lee? Jeet Kun Do or wing chun

...learn joint locks, but also with an emphasis on deescalating situations and trying not to hurt people? Aikido 

...all swords all the time? Kendo, iaido, or katori 

Some martial arts do weapons. Aikido does jo (short staff) and bokken (wooden sword),sometimes knife. Karate does bo (long staff), nunchucks, and sai. TKD does many of these, plus three-section staff, kamas, and probably some others. I don't think judo does weapons. Weapons can depend on dojo/lineage.

Your size and gender shouldn't make a big difference. I am quite short and routinely throw guys a full foot taller than me. It's not about physical strength, it's about position. I think arts like aikido do a good job of teaching how to take advantage of this. My karate senseis were both short, but we never really talked about taking advantage of that. 

A note about rank: it takes different amounts of time to get to black belt. In BJJ, ten years is not unusual. In TKD, it might be 2-3 years. Being a black belt means you've mastered the basics. Don't get too hung up on it. 

[journeythroughjourneytothewest]

Chapter 12 Recap: The Tang emperor, firmly sincere, convenes a Grand Mass; Guanyin, in epiphany, converts Gold Cicada

This chapter begins with an account of the demon guardian leading Liu Quan and his wife out of the Region of Darkness and into their proper bodies; Liu Quan into his own, and Cuilian into that of Princess Yuying’s, who the demon guardian caused to die by crashing into her and snatching her soul away. This finished, the demon guardian departs, leaving Emperor Taizong to sigh over the death and then seeming derangement of his sister and for a newly-embodied and very confused Li Cuilian to insist she’s not the emperor’s sister. The issue is cleared up when a newly resurrected Liu Quan makes his report, and husband and wife go back home happily.

The story then turns to Xiang Liang, who Emperor Taizong had borrowed money from in the underworld and who we learn “made his living by selling water, while his wife…sold pottery in front of their home.��� The had built an enormous amount of wealth and merit in the Region of Darkness because they gave the majority of their money in the World of Light away either as alms to monks or as gifts to the dead through purchasing and burning paper money. This humble couple are left “terror-stricken” when minister Yuchi Gong comes to their home with a vast amount of gold and silver and, even after hearing why the emperor wants to give them so much money, refuse it all. Declaring Papa Xiang and Mama Xiang “virtuous elders,” Emperor Taizong decrees that the money should be used to “erect a temple [soon to be known as the Royal Xiangguo Temple], to build a shrine, and to support the religious services that would be performed in them.” This temple still stands today.

Exceedingly pleased by the completion of the temple, Emperor Taizong then orders that a public notice is to be sent out that would invite monks to celebrate the Grand Mass of Land and Water, “so that those orphaned souls in the Region of Darkness might find salvation.” The monks arrive in less than a month’s time, though they are coming from all over China. Emperor Taizong also orders the court historian Fu Yi to select the priest who would preside over the ceremonies. Fu Yi, however, instead presents a memorial attempting to disavow the Buddha’s worth, going so far as to call Buddhism “a foreign intrusion in China.” The Tang Emperor has this memorial distributed among the officials for discussion. Prime minister Xiao Yu comes forward to defend the teachings of Buddha and recommends that Fu Yi, for “he who spurns a sage is himself lawless,” be “severely punished.” This sparks a debate in which Xiao Yu and Fu Yi argue over the merits of Buddhism and which ends when Emperor Taizong, agreeing with the Lord High Chamberlain Zhang Daoyuan that the Three Religions—Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism—are to be respected. After that, a law is passed that anyone who “denounces a monk or Buddhism will have his arms broken.” The Tang emperor, having settled this religious debate, orders again for the site for the Grand Mass to be prepared and for someone “of great merit and virtue” to be selected as the altar master.

It likely comes as no surprise that Chen Xuanzang is selected for the potential fulfillment of this role, being a man who, despite an impressive lineage, “had no love for glory or wealth, being dedicated wholly to the pursuit of Nirvana.” He was further well versed in the “thousands of classics and sutras,” and “none of the Buddhis chants and hums were unknown to him.” Emperor Taizong, especially after learning that Xuanzang is the son of Grand Secretary Chen Guangrui, is delighted to appoint him the Grand Expositor of the Faith, Supreme Vicar of Priests.

In this new role, Xuanzang selects a “total of one thousand two hundred worthy monks, young and old” to conduct the Grand Mass of Land and Water, which would last forty-nine days. After much practice and at an auspicious time, Emperor Taizong arrives at the temple to greet the monks and encourage them. That very same night, Bodhisattva Guanyin learns about Taizong’s actions to hold the Grand Mass and that the chief priest is Xuanzang—“who happened also to be the very elder who she had sent to this incarnation”—and sets off immediately to “sell” the treasures she was given by the Buddha to gift to the scripture pilgrim. These are the “embroidered cassock with rare jewels and the nine-ring priestly staff.” She keeps the “Golden, the Constrictive, and the Prohibitive Fillets” hidden for later use.

Guising herself as a “monk covered with scabs and sores, barefooted and bareheaded,” Guanyin and Moksa soon reach the Eastern Flower Gate and run into chief minister Xiao Yu. Guanyin and Xiao Yu have a brief exchange on why she’s asking for so much money for the cassock and the staff, with Guanyin stating she’d be happy to give the cassock away to someone who is worthy. Xiao Yu is delighted at these words, for he believes that Chen Xuanzang is just the man the disguised Guanyin is looking for. He invites her to have an audience with the emperor, and she’s happy to comply.

Having been greeted with the sight of his chief minister accompanied with two monks “covered in scabs and sores,” Emperor Taizong is soon given a full account on why the cassock and the nine-ring priestly staff are so precious and, pleased by the response and by the sight of these precious objects, offers to buy them. Guanyin, however, refuses all payment, merely stating again that “anyone who reveres the Three Treasures, rejoices in virtue, and submits to our Buddha will be given the treasures free.” Guanyin leaves the treasures behind with the Tang Emperor to give to the monk of his choice, and shortly afterwards Emperor Taizong summons Xuanzang. The emperor tells the monk to try on the cassock and to hold the staff, and everyone around is left awestruck by “how imposing, how elegant and fine” Xuanzang looks with them. Emperor Taizong tells Xuanzang to keep the cassock and the staff, and then the monk, along with an honor guard and many other officials, make a procession on the main streets toward the temple, with many exclaiming over how fine Xuanzang looks. The procession finally reaches the temple, and everyone goes to their assigned seats.

The celebration of the Grand Mass is now to be held, attracting a huge crowd. Bodhisattva Guanyin and Moksa are among the observers, as they want to see “how the mass is going; second, we want to find out whether Gold Cicada is worthy of my treasures; and third, we can discover what division of Buddhism he is preaching about.” Guanyin discovers that Xuanzang is indeed redeeming lost souls through the mass, who are all approaching unseen. Even so, in her monk’s guise Guanyin approaches Xuanzang and berates him because “You only know how to talk about the teachings of the Little Vehicle” without saying anything about the Great Vehicle.” Xuanzang is delighted by this chance to learn more Buddhist doctrine and, leaping down from the platform he was on, greets her as his “Venerable Teacher.” Guanyin goes on to say that the teachings of the Little Vehicle “cannot save the damned by leading them up to Heaven; they can only mislead and confuse mortals.” She also states that she possesses “Tripitaka, three collections of the Great Vehicle Laws of Buddha, which are able to send the lost to Heaven, to deliver the afflicted from their sufferings, to fashion ageless bodies, and to break the cycles of coming and going.”

Before Xuanzang can respond to any of this, it’s reported to Emperor Taizong that the mass was stopped when the main monk “was pulled down by two scabby mendicants, babbling some kind of nonsense.” The Tang emperor orders their arrest, and Guanyin and Moksa are brought before him. Yet upon revealing again that she has in her possession “the Tripitaka, the Great Vehicle Law of Buddha, which is able to save the damned, deliver the afflicted, and fashion the indestructible body,” Emperor Taizong is delighted and eagerly asks where it is. Guanyin tells him that the Tripitaka is at “the place of our lord, Tathagata…in the Great Temple of Thunderclap, located in India of the Great Western Heaven.” She the agrees to lecture on some of the Great Vehicle and reveals her true form, compelling all assembled to bow down and chant “Namo Bodhisattva Guanshiyin!”

Emperor Taizong immediately orders a skilled painter to sketch Bodhisattva Guanyin, and that honor goes to a man named Wu Daozi. The Tang emperor also orders the Mass to a halt. He does this because he wants to wait for someone to bring back the scriptures of the Great Vehicle before resuming “our sincere efforts to cultivate the fruits of virtue.” The question then, of course, is who would be willing “to seek scriptures from Buddha in the Western Heaven.” Xuanzang immediately volunteers himself, stating that though he has no talents, he “is ready to perform the service of a dog and a horse. I shall seek these true scriptures on behalf of your Majesty, that the empire of our king may be firm and everlasting.” Emperor Taizong is highly pleased at this, and makes Xuanzang his bond brother. Xuanzang, for his own part, vows to not return home until he has the scriptures or dies trying.

After everyone has dispersed back to their homes and Xuanzang returns to the Temple of Great Blessing, he’s greeted by many monks and several of his own disciples, all of them wanting to know if it’s true he “vowed to go to the Western Heaven.” Xuanzang isn’t put off in the slightest from descriptions on how “the way to the Western Heaven is long, filled with tigers, leopards, and all kinds of monsters”; he made his vow to either get the scriptures or fall “into eternal perdition in Hell.” He tells his disciples that the journey could take anywhere from two to seven years, but that they will know of his return when “you see the branches of the pine trees within our gate pointing eastward.”

The next morning Taizong has a formal rescript written up “stating the intent to acquire scriptures and stamped it with the seal of free passage,” ensuring (so he hopes) that Xuanzang can travel without trouble from civilian forces. He presents this to Xuanzang along with “a bowl made of purple gold for you to collect alms on your way” as well as two attendants and a horse. The monk is now ready and eager to begin the journey. Yet before he sets off, the Tang emperor gives him the byname of “Tripitaka” after the scriptures he seeks, and though Xuanzang had always abstained from wine the two drink one cup apiece as a toast to the pilgrimage. Emperor Taizong also sprinkles a handful of dirt into Tripitaka’s cup, explaining to the confused monk that, as Xuanzang thinks the journey will take him three years, that this is to remember to “Treasure a handful of dirt from your home, /But love not ten thousand taels of foreign gold.” Tripitaka thanks the emperor for the gesture, and the two separate, Emperor Taizong to his palace, and Chen Xuanzang to the start of the journey. And thus at lost last begins the journeying part of Journey to the West.

[maree-go-round]

Under the Heng Gate - Chapter 21

Chapter 21 : As long as you're Fu Ting, you’ll definitely be able to pay it back.

In the top pavilion, Qiushuang knelt before the dressing table, retrieving a ledger from the bottom drawer. Qichi sat beside her, took the ledger and flipped through the pages, with brush in hand. After marking a few entries and adding recent expenses, she closed the ledger and handed it back.

Qiushuang put it away, remarking, "The expenses of the household have been increasing recently."

Qichi nodded, "Indeed."

If it weren't for the numerous business revenues, such extravagance would have long drained the coffers[1].

Though Qiushuang felt a pang of worry, she recalled a joyful incident and laughed, "Speaking of which, I saw the Prince of Yong's men storming off angrily yesterday. The old servant who pleaded for mercy on behalf of their young lord was there too. Heard the buyer was the Princess of Qingliu, their faces were as dark as thunderclouds."

Qichi smiled but said nothing. She always believed that teaching a lesson was enough; as long as they didn't repeatedly cause trouble, there was no need to kick them while they were down.

Outside, the sound of gongs and drums echoed. She turned to look out the window and noticed the rare appearance of the sun.

"What special day is it today?"

Qiushuang, pondering the question, replied, "I heard it's some local festival celebrated by the local Hu people of Gaolan Prefecture."

Qichi understood, knowing that the area had a significant Hu people population, and such festivities were not surprising.

Suddenly remembering that Li Yan was practicing horseback riding at the horse field, she decided to check on him. She donned an extra layer and told Qiushuang to stay behind, then walked out the door.

Leaving the top pavilion, she followed the shortcut that Luo Xiaoyi had shown her before, passing through the side courtyard until she reached the horse field.

Upon entering, she saw Li Yan on horseback, with Luo Xiaoyi instructing him from the ground. Li Yan's horse was still skittish, constantly raising its hooves. Luo Xiaoyi chased after it, trying to steady it. As he ran, something fell from his loosened robe.

The wind caught the fallen item, blowing it close to Qichi's feet. She saw it was a thick paper booklet, its pages fluttering open to reveal a mess of writing, all numbers and accounts.

She bent down to pick it up, recognizing it as a ledger after a quick glance.

Luo Xiaoyi hurried over.

"Did you write this?" she asked.

He reached for the booklet, smiling sheepishly, "Yes, I did. Sister-in-law, you must be laughing at me. I'm not well-educated, so my writing is poor."

Qichi handed it back, saying nothing, though she found it amusing—it was the messiest ledger she had ever seen.

Luo Xiaoyi, not wanting her to see the booklet, tucked it away and changed the subject, "Sister-in-law, how do you think the young lord rides?"

Qichi looked at her nephew. Li Yan, clad in a thick coat, sat on the horse and gripped the reins tightly, his cheeks flushed from the cold. Since their arrival in Gaolan Prefecture, he had grown increasingly admiring of men like his uncle and Luo Xiaoyi, coming to the horse field every day to practice riding.

Seeing his determination, Qichi let him continue. But now, watching his efforts, she felt a pang of pity.

"Do you want to keep practicing?" she asked.

Li Yan nodded.

Luo Xiaoyi chuckled, "The young lord is quite determined. He's been on the horse for hours today."

Qichi smiled, "Good. That's the spirit of a son of the Prince of Guang Residence."

She felt a pang of nostalgia, likely thinking of her brother. She felt a pang of emotion, imagining if her brother could see his son's perseverance, he would be proud.

In a brief moment of distraction, Li Yan's horse suddenly reared. Qichi quickly moved aside to avoid it, but a hand reached out to steady the horse, grasping the horse's muzzle and pulling it down forcefully.

She turned and saw Fu Ting.

He had appeared from behind her, seemingly out of nowhere.

Luo Xiaoyi hurried over, "Thank goodness Third Brother arrived in time."

After the frightened horse calmed down, Fu Ting released his grip, glanced at her, then at Li Yan.

Li Yan, slightly pale from the scare, asked anxiously, "Aunt, are you alright?"

Qichi shook her head, smoothing her coat. Though she could ride, the unexpected incident might have startled her.

Li Yan, afraid of causing her more distress, went off to practice in a different area.

Only then did Qichi look at Fu Ting, who was flexing his fingers.

"Did you get hurt?" she asked.

"No," he replied, clenching his hand before letting it drop.

She thought to herself that this man, who endured serious injuries without complaint, surely wouldn't be troubled by a minor strain.

"Are you sure?" she asked again. Since he had gotten hurt saving her, she didn't mind treating him again.

He raised his hand, flexing his fingers in front of her to show he was fine. Qichi noticed the veins on his hand and his slender and strong fingers, recalling how it had gripped hers tightly before. She thought, no wonder it had such strength. These are indeed powerful hands.

After several glances, satisfied that he was fine, she shifted her gaze back to Li Yan.

Fu Ting also turned to watch Li Yan. The ground in the horse field was uneven, making riding difficult. Despite the earlier scare, Li Yan kept his head down and gripped the reins tightly, showing no intention of dismounting.

It seemed this seemingly gentle and obedient boy had a streak of stubbornness.

Seeing the horse raise its hooves again, Fu Ting strode over.

Qichi’s view was suddenly filled with his figure. Fu Ting approached the horse, steadying it, then walked alongside Li Yan for a while. He then tapped the boy's waist, "Sit up straight."

Startled, Li Yan looked up and saw his uncle instead of Luo Xiaoyi, "Uncle."

Fu Ting adjusted his legs, "Relax a bit."

Li Yan complied, surprised that his uncle was teaching him to ride. He looked towards Qichi, who smiled encouragingly. Her gaze shifted from her nephew to Fu Ting's face, his expression serious as he corrected Li Yan's posture.

These two men were now her closest family. She hoped they would grow closer, ideally as close as father and son.

After a while, Fu Ting, seeing Li Yan's improvement, returned to Qichi. From afar, he saw her smiling face.

"What are you smiling at?" he asked.

Qichi's smile remained, as she sighed, "Without his parents, A’Yan relies on me. Seeing you teach him makes me happy."

Fu Ting thought it was such a small thing to cause joy, but he detected a deeper meaning. He stared at her, "Do you fear I would treat him poorly?"

Qichi's eyes flickered. She wanted to say yes, but that would show that she didn’t trust him, so she smiled and evaded, "Of course not."

Fu Ting glanced at Li Yan again, realizing she held her nephew in high regard.

　　　　　　　　　　　　※

Luo Xiaoyi continued teaching Li Yan under Fu Ting’s guidance. After completing the third lap, he stopped, conversing with Li Yan for a few moments. From a distance, Qichi noticed Li Yan hesitated as if he wanted to dismount but then decided against it, resuming his position.

Luo Xiaoyi walked over with a cheerful smile. “Sister-in-law, today’s a festival day in Gaolan. It seems we arrived at just the right time to catch the excitement. It’s a pity that Young Lord Li Yan is so determined to practice his riding that he won't come along. Would you like to see the festival in the city?” He gestured towards the direction of the city. The Governor of Gaolan was coming from that side. He came over just because he saw them.

Qichi remembered the earlier sounds of drums and gongs, suggesting a lively scene. She turned to the man beside her, “Are you going?”

Fu Ting shook his head. He had something to do and was about to return to Hanhai Commandery. He still needed to discuss matters with the local officials.

Qichi sighed, “If you’re not going, neither will I.”

Fu Ting looked at her intently.

Just then, the Governor of Gaolan arrived and respectfully inquired, “Would the Grand Protector and Madam like to visit the city to enjoy the festival?”

Fu Ting twirled his whip in thought before finally nodding. He figured it wouldn’t hurt for her to see the festivities since she hadn’t been here long.

The governor quickly went to make arrangements.

Meeting Fu Ting’s gaze, Qichi felt a sense of triumph as she donned her hood.

Luo Xiaoyi, with good intentions, had noticed that buying horses had not angered his third brother, and he seized this opportunity to help his third brother and sister-in-law mend any lingering tensions. He led the way out of the training grounds, noticing Qichi looking towards Li Yan. To reassure her, he said, “Don’t worry, someone will keep an eye on the young lord. He won’t get hurt.”

Qichi nodded, following Fu Ting out of the training ground.

The city of Gaolan was bustling like never before. The streets were packed, and the noise was deafening. The carriage couldn’t move any further and had to stop.

Qichi lifted the curtain and stepped out. Standing still for a moment, she clutched her hood and looked around. The throngs of people explained why the carriage couldn’t proceed.

Although it was still daytime, judging by the scene, it seemed the revelry would continue through the night. She turned and saw Fu Ting. Despite the crowd, his tall and imposing figure stood out, even among the tall Hu people.

Unable to ride through the packed streets, Fu Ting handed his reins to a nearby guard and removed the sword from his waist, giving it to the guard to avoid alarming the crowd.

The Governor of Gaolan, dressed in plain clothes, accompanied them at the front with Luo Xiaoyi. When he noticed they hadn’t followed, he quickly hurried back to invite them along.

Qichi followed slowly.

A group was playing Hu music on a rug spread-out on the ground, where a Hu woman danced with very little clothes on despite the winter chill, drawing many people to stop and watch.

Luo Xiaoyi couldn’t help but click his tongue in admiration.

Qichi glanced at the man beside her and asked softly, "Good-looking?"

Fu Ting raised his head and realized what she was referring to. He couldn’t help but look at the woman next to him, thought she was the one who brought him here, yet now she was asking if someone else was good-looking.

He glanced at the Hu woman's reddened ankles from the cold, and for some reason, thought of another pair of snow-white toes. Looking again at the woman next to him, he said deliberately, “Good-looking.”

Qichi looked at him. His head was held high, his gaze seemingly fixed as if genuinely admiring the Hu woman. Uncertain of his sincerity, she pulled out some loose silver from her sleeve and tossed it.

The Hu woman noticed the tip. She immediately stopped dancing and bowed towards Qichi to express her gratitude.

Qichi, clutching her hood, smiled, “A tip well-deserved. My husband said your dance was beautiful.”

She glanced playfully at the man beside her, causing Luo Xiaoyi and the Governor of Gaolan to look over as well.

Fu Ting stared at her, smirked and then walked away.

Qichi followed him, taking a few steps before seeing a group of people at the end of the street wearing colorful masks, moving towards them. The sound of gongs and drums was deafening—the same noise she had heard earlier.

The road was blocked, and the people retreated. She pressed close to Fu Ting’s arm, asking, “What is that?”

Fu Ting noticed her pressing against his arm. He adjusted himself and moved aside to let her stand in front of him. He lowered his head so his chin brushed against the fur-lined edge of her hood.

The soft white fur tickled his chin. He tilted his head and said, “Just a Hu ritual.”

Once the procession passed and the crowd dispersed, the area felt less congested.

The Governor of Gaolan, who had been shielding them earlier, turned back and explained to Qichi, “Madam, you may not know, but that ritual is for warding off plagues.”

He then recounted the devastating plague that once ravaged Gaolan, causing widespread death and destruction. During that dark time, the Turks took advantage and pillaged the land, turning it into a living hell.

Qichi, though she hadn’t witnessed it herself, felt a sense of melancholy from his brief words. “How are things now?”

The Governor of Gaolan replied, “Much better than before, thanks to the Grand Protector’s compassion and military prowess. Without his efforts, today’s scene would be impossible to see.”

Luo Xiaoyi added, “Indeed, those Turkic dogs thought we were weak, but my third brother fought them off, leaving none alive to tell the tale.”

Fu Ting, having walked a few steps ahead, turned back, “If you’ve got time for tales, better come help clear the way.”

He cast a glance at Qichi, thinking it inappropriate to discuss plagues and wars before her. Luo Xiaoyi wanted to continue boasting about his brother’s bravery to his sister-in-law, but reluctantly joined Fu Ting to clear the way.

Qichi followed, envisioning the scenes Luo Xiaoyi described. She hadn’t realized the high regard in which Fu Ting was held among the people of the northern lands until she left Hanhai Commandery.

She mused, “You must have been terrified.”

Fu Ting turned back, wondering if she had been frightened by the stories. “Terrified of what?”

She glanced around, then softly said, “I’m young, aren’t you afraid of leaving me a widow?”

Fu Ting looked at her lively eyes, realizing for the first time how expressive they were. In a low, amused tone, he replied, “I’m hard to kill.”

Qichi found his words amusingly blunt, turned away to hide her smile, and pretended she hadn’t spoken.

　　　　　　　　　　　　※

After wandering for some time, the group paused under the eaves of a roadside building. This was at the suggestion of the Governor of Gaolan, who was concerned that the delicate wife of the Grand Protector might be weary and dared not let her walk too far.

The streets were still bustling with people, and even the shops were unusually crowded. Qichi, half amused and half unfazed, found herself at her own shop again. She folded her hands and stood there watching.

As she listened to the Governor of Gaolan and Fu Ting discuss the livelihoods of the northern people, Luo Xiaoyi approached and seeing her peering into the shop, remarked, "Sister-in-law, wasn't this the shop you visited with the young lord last time? Why are you looking at it again today?"

Qichi thought how quite a coincidence it was to run into her shop twice, considering how much sparser business was here in the north compared to the Central Plains. She responded, "I wonder how the goods here are."

Luo Xiaoyi glanced at his third brother and whispered, "It's a coincidence. Last time, when Sister-in-law had me guard the shop outside the city due to the refugees, most of the supplies came from this very store. I only know that this shop has a wide and varied range of goods and must be very wealthy."

Hearing the word ‘wealthy’, he couldn't help but feel a longing. After years of hardship, who wouldn't yearn for prosperity?

Qichi stifled a laugh and nodded in agreement. "It should be."

Luo Xiaoyi sighed deeply. Seeing his expression made Qichi want to laugh even more, but she concealed it with her sleeve and suddenly remembered the discussions about the wars with the Turks.

She thought: This northern land, bordering foreign countries, would be so much better if there were no wars and trade could be conducted peacefully. It would certainly be profitable. With this thought of business, she couldn't help but feel a pity.

Suddenly, there were shouts and exclamations nearby.

Qichi turned to see a crowd starting to scatter. Several tall Hu people were being pushed towards her, forcing her to step back several paces, almost trapping her.

Luo Xiaoyi pushed them away, shouting, "What are you doing? Move aside!"

Before he finished speaking, Qichi felt her wrist tighten. It was Fu Ting grabbing her hand. With his other hand, he shielded her from the Hu people and pulled her close. "Follow me."

As they moved through the crowd, the Governor of Gaolan had already sent people to investigate the cause of the disturbance. Fu Ting led her, avoiding the throngs of people. His tall stature and long legs made him move quickly. She struggled to keep up and tugged at the strap of his sleeve, "Slow down."

Fu Ting noticed her hood had blown back, and her face was flushed from the brisk pace. He glanced around, not wanting to linger on the street, and pulled her closer with his arm, saying, "Let's just get through this section first."

Qichi found herself pressed against his chest, her heart pounding as she hurried along, forgetting everything else. Two people nearly collided with them, but Fu Ting blocked them both.

Finally, when they reached a quieter area, he opened a door and led her into a building off the road, only then releasing her hand.

He walked around the building, ensuring it was safe before saying, "Wait here for me."

Qichi, still catching her breath from the brisk pace, could only nod. She adjusted her hair, while Fu Ting strode out the door.

The building was quiet because someone was making tea inside. Such expensive tea was rarely enjoyed by common folk, so there were few patrons. Qichi chose the best seat as she sat down. The server, having received her money, respectfully began preparing her tea.

She sat for a moment, finally catching her breath. Looking outside, she saw that the earlier chaos had yet to subside. It was even more chaotic than the streets of Hanhai Commandery.

The tea was ready, and the server respectfully served it to her. She held the cup, gently inhaling the fragrant aroma, and took a small sip. When she glanced up, she noticed a richly dressed young man outside the window.

It was Cui Mingdu, the son of Marquis of Heluo.

He was surrounded by his retinue, walking hurriedly down the street, likely also trying to avoid the chaos.

Qichi quickly averted her eyes. She set down her tea, stood up and donned her hood again, stepping out of the building.

The server was astonished that this lady, who had ordered this valuable cup of tea, had taken only one sip before leaving.

Fu Ting rode his horse around the city, and the Governor of Gaolan had already managed to quell the disturbance. It turned out that some Hu people had brought wild animals to perform in the city but failed to control them, causing injuries and chaos.

Even so, Fu Ting, accompanied by Luo Xiaoyi, patrolled the city thoroughly to ensure there were no other issues.

Luo Xiaoyi, aware of his brother's cautious nature, followed closely, saying, "Don't worry, Third Brother. It couldn't be those Turk spies. After we drove them away last time, they wouldn't dare infiltrate Gaolan so soon."

He then added, "Third Brother should check on Sister-in-law. What if she was frightened?"

Fu Ting nodded. He spurred his horse and rode to the building.

Upon arrival, he dismounted and entered, but did not find her there. The server, remembering him as the strikingly formidable guest dressed in a tight Hu attire--likely to be a soldier, and the lady who had been so generous that it was hard to forget, quickly informed him that she had already left some time ago.

　　　　　　　　　　　　※

Nearby stood a tall pavilion, offering a panoramic view of the city and mountains. Qichi, having hidden in a secluded place for a while, saw that the street was no longer chaotic and decided to come here. She leaned against the railing and suddenly felt something hard against her waist. Reaching for it, she found her sachet.

Inside was the beaded ball she had once asked Fu Ting to buy. She took it out and twirled it in her fingers, lost in thought.

Fu Ting strode over, spotting her in the pavilion and pursed his lips together. He almost felt relieved he hadn't lost his wife. He walked up and stood before her. She hadn't noticed him yet, leaning against the railing, playing with the beaded ball.

After a moment, he asked, "What's so interesting about that cheap thing?"

Qichi looked up, surprised to see him. She clenched the ball in her hand and retorted, "Just because it's cheap doesn't mean it's not worth anything."

Fu Ting was silent, inwardly mocking himself. Of course, what right did he have to comment on the value of things in front of her? With her wealth, everything seemed cheap.

Qichi, holding the beaded ball, remembered their previous conversation.

"I saw the ledger that Xiaoyi keeps," she said suddenly.

She knew what it was. Qiushuang had told her about it when Luo Xiaoyi asked for money to send Du Xinnu away. The amounts matched what she had recently spent, including the money for the horses.

Fu Ting's expression darkened, thinking Luo Xiaoyi had been careless in letting her find out. He looked at the woman before him, unable to speak.

Qichi observed him. He stood before her in his black Hu attire, holding a whip. She saw his prominent brow, deep-set eyes, swept over his tightly closed thin lips, and the pride that emanated from him.

She smiled and nodded, "Fine, consider it a loan. You can repay me someday."

She decided to respect his pride.

After all, that day would inevitably come.

Fu Ting had indeed thought the same. Though currently struggling, the future was unpredictable. But hearing her say this, he couldn't help but smile, thinking of the amounts owed. "Aren't you afraid I won't be able to repay?"

Qichi's eyelashes fluttered as she recalled his resolute words: "I refuse to believe I can't overcome this hurdle."

Such a man would surely repay.

She smiled, resting her arms on the railing, shaking her head gently, "Fear not, as long as you're Fu Ting, you’ll definitely be able to pay it back."

Fu Ting paused, looking at her. She was wrapped in a large cloak with a snow-white fur collar around her neck. Her arm rested on the railing while her face nestled against it, smiling softly at him.

For a moment, he felt as if the harsh northern winter had passed.

Notes: [1] The raw is 坐吃山空 (zuò chī shān kōng): An idiom meaning to deplete all resources without replenishment.

[apatheticfluorescence]

Coffee, especially French press is nice to have routinely in solitude. I love tea but I brew gong fu no matter what now so it feels more like a social practice, or something to do when I'm not doing anything else. I really want a tea table I can sit at and brew repeatedly without getting up. Whereas with coffee I can have a medium sized cup and enjoy it for a while sitting on the balcony, or after finishing lunch watching an episode. A full dose of caffeine and flavor in one shot. I miss brewing tea and just focusing on the tea. Soon I will be free

[sagetoday]

Master the Art of the Dragon Sword Routine

The Dragon Sword Tutorial - Long Hua Jian The Dragon Sword routine, known as Long Hua Jian, is celebrated for its simple yet efficient movements that resonate with both essence and power. This practice stands out as an invaluable resource for Gong fu practitioners, serving to enhance their skill and refine their technique. Through dedicated practice of the Dragon Sword routine, individuals cultivate fluidity, precision, and strength in their movements. The elegance of this form not only sharpens martial abilities but also supports overall physical and mental well-being. To dive deeper into the techniques and benefits of the Dragon Sword routine, please visit the link below: https://www.sage.blue/the-dragon-sword-tutorial-long-hua-jian/ Unlock the potential of the Dragon Sword and elevate your martial arts practice today!

[flowingmobility]

Easy Qigong Tutorial and Practice from Susan Thompson Tai Chi on Vimeo.

Easy Qigong Tutorial and Practice; Follow Along 10 minute Qi Healing Meditation

Welcome to a 10-minute Easy Qigong Practice and tutorial, a perfect blend of Kung Fu inspired Tai Chi and ancient Qi practices led by Sifu Susan Thompson Tai Chi. In this session, we delve into the essence of martial arts, exploring the profound connection between mind, body, and Qi, the life energy.

Easy Qigong Tutorial for Beginners | Kung Fu Inspired Tai Chi Follow Along with Sifu | Qi Healing Meditation

� What this video includes: - *Kung Fu*: Discover the grace and power of Kung Fu movements seamlessly integrated into this Tai Chi session. - *Tai Chi* / *Tai Chi Chuan*: Immerse yourself in the flowing and meditative Tai Chi Chuan movements that promote balance and harmony. - *Qi* / *Qi Gong* / *Chi Kung*: Learn to cultivate and channel Qi through the gentle exercises of Qi Gong and Chi Kung. - *Martial Arts*: Experience the martial arts philosophy embedded in the graceful transitions and precise postures of this routine. - *Sifu*: Follow the guidance of Sifu [Your Name], a seasoned practitioner and instructor, as you embark on this transformative journey.

� **Healing and Energy:** - *Healing*: Explore the healing aspects of Qigong as we focus on nurturing the body, mind, and spirit. - *Healing Energy*: Tap into the natural flow of healing energy, fostering a sense of well-being and rejuvenation. - *Energy*: Understand the connection between movement and energy flow, promoting vitality and balance. - *Life Energy*: Harness the life energy within you to enhance overall health and vitality.

� **Meditation and Intention:** - *Healing Meditation*: Immerse yourself in a guided healing meditation to promote relaxation and inner peace. - *Intention*: Explore the power of intention (Yi) as we focus on the mind-body connection during the session.

� **Natural Remedy:** - *Natural Remedy*: Discover the natural remedy of Qigong, promoting holistic well-being and self-healing.

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced practitioner, join us in this journey to unlock the transformative potential of Qigong, Tai Chi, and the healing arts. Subscribe for more empowering sessions and embark on your path to holistic well-being.

#Qigong #TaiChi #MartialArts #HealingEnergy #MindBodyConnection #SifuGuidance

[hong-kong-art-man]

His Success Is The Result Of Perfection Is Hard Work For Almost A Century—The 96-Year-Old Master Wong Kai (黃佳) Who Made Dance Lions In Hong Kong, The Only Remaining Of The Great

The like-minded great artists and artisans are always alone.

‘Artists’ focus on creating works pleasing his spiritual desire while the work of ‘artisans’ focuses on accessorizing and functionality in order to satisfy the needs of a customer. The work of artists and artisans can both show aesthetics but the style of an artist is more individualistic and thus artificially cherished. The artists exhibit their work in museums or galleries. Artisans often sell their crafts at fairs and shops, and they welcome commercial order in large quantities.

What does it mean to commission art? ‘Commissioning art’ is when a client hires an artist to create an artwork based on his request. Hotels like to commission an artist to do decorative art prints for rooms. When an artist is too eager to do commissioning art, he is no different from an artisan.

Some artisans refuse to produce works without passion and just to fulfill a need. They have artistry in their souls and their visions are artistic. For that, a great artisan may be better than an unremarkable artist, and for that, let us salute our city’s 96-year-old extraordinary artisan Master Wong Kai (黃佳) who has been making ‘lions’ for lion dances since 1940s. The lion dance is usually performed during traditional, cultural and religious festivals. It may also be performed on important occasions such as business opening events, special celebrations and wedding ceremonies.

The Chinese lion dance is usually operated by 2 kung fu dancers, one of whom manipulates the head while the other moves the rear end of the lion. Chinese lion dance fundamental movements are a kind of Chinese marital arts and the movements take place to a vigorous beat with drum, gong and cymbal.

The crux of success of a lion dance is whether the ‘lion’ looks like a real lion? There are northern and southern ‘lions’. The appearance of the lion artifact does matter. Does the lion head look pretty? Is its hair soft and tactile? Are its eyes sharp and brave? Are the ornaments and patterns unique and eye-catching? Is the body graceful and regal, with flowing manes and a delicate tail?

Master Wong Kai is small, slim, healthy but a bit feeble. He thinks sharply and a walking cane is always next to him. He did not look like 96 years old. Money is irrelevant to him. A kind factory owner gave to him some corridor space so that he can continue his artisan career. Master Wong smiled, “When I don’t eat or sleep, I work. I only work for customers who appreciate my art.”

He recollected, “I was born in Canton (the present name is Guangzhou). When I was a kid in the 1940s, I was a helper in my father’s flower farm. Soon, World War II took place and we fled to Shek Tong Tsui (石塘咀) of Hong Kong. Dad took me to temple fairs and I participated in lion dances. I was greatly fascinated by the lion artifact and decided to be an artisan. I made dance lions and dance dragons. In the 1950s, I made even small dance snakes, fishes and prawns around the dragon when festival celebrations were grand in those years. Now, all such dances are small-scale. Young people look down on traditional cultures.”

Master Wong sighed, “I have been looking for an apprentice or successor for more than 60 years but people just came and left. It requires at least 15 to 20 years, through practice and experience, to acquire the artisan skills of making a dance lion. As income is bad but the time and effort to be spent are out of proportion, young people would prefer being a factory or office worker.”

I asked, “Master, I was told that a dance lion consists of 13 parts. Could you briefly tell me what they are?” Master Wong took a sip of puerh tea and explained, “A remarkable dance lion can be revealed on the craftsmanship, such as (1) forehead painted with unique patterns, (2) particular face colour patterns representing a certain historical hero, (3) rustproof and reflective mirror placed on forehead, (4) silky smooth pompoms, (5) firm and unturned nose,(6) graceful ‘buddha’ or ‘crane’ mouth, (7) bold and perky horn, (8) movable and cute ears, (9) hair that is made from good rabbit hair, (10) a pair of blinking eyes, (11) shining molded teeth, (12) beard made of horse tail hair and (13) top grade fabrics for the lion body.”

Master is proud of himself and said, “Apart from the aesthetic sense, my success depends of course, on my craftsmanship and also one important thing—the availability of great materials. Unfortunately, we now live in a world of relying on fast, cheap, ready and factory-made supplies. Let me give you a few examples. It is not easy any more to find fine horse tail hair. How can I afford 100% silk for the pompom? Where can I find animal teeth to fabricate those of a dance lion? Good old days are gone. Modern people just want more and more, and in a speedy way. They have no interest in or patience with nice old things.”

I was silent. Master Wong’s friend Sam Tam (譚定邦) who arranged this great interview added, “I am a kung fu master. I am also sad to see the gradual loss of Chinese traditions and cultures in Hong Kong. The city is moving too fast and relentlessly. Mass production replaces highly skilled artisans with a large number of sub-divided unskilled jobs with lower wages for workers in a factory environment.”

Master replied, “In Mainland China, they now use big factories to manufacture dance lions and dragons. They use low-quality and inexpensive materials such as yuanbao paper (元寶紙), plastics and nylon strings. Hand painting is no longer necessary and replaced by those printing machines.”

I was silent for a while again. I said, “Industrialization imposes its harsh rhythm onto humans. Operating it, we also move mechanically and un-spiritually, and become part of the machine.”

Master Wong drew a deep breath and said, “Be it as it may. I am Wong Kai. I insist on my own ways. I can die at any moment but I insist on working as an artisan with artistic determination and ambition. I still want to create more dance lions in Hong Kong and tell the future generations what are the best forms, molds, materials and processes for such art pieces. Factories cannot and will not defeat artisans. I work alone on a factory corridor as an artisan every day with no regrets.”

“Perfection is achieved, not when there is nothing more to add, but when there is nothing left to take away.” I look at the great dance lions created by Master Wong Kai and feel strongly one thing: success is the result of a perfectionist’s attitude—hard work, hard work and hard work!

Maurice Lee

Chinese Version 中文版: https://www.patreon.com/posts/xiang-gang-ru-he-90823886?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link

Dance Lion Head Structure Introduction  https://www.rthk.hk/chiculture/bamboocraft/c2_structure.htm  Acknowledgement-RTHK

Dragon and Lion Dance Culture in Hong Kong  https://youtu.be/zZHXM8Z7yOM?si=-B- pYuyMZZmbBNLE  Acknowledgement-RTHK

Creation of a Dance Lion  https://youtu.be/4J26bJwNIrA?si=z0VbuEHDHntudwOi  Acknowledgement-eh

Lion Dance  https://youtu.be/JVBxZbEudfM?si=KmGldmDCbusGMoYn  Acknowledgement-NewTV

[teriel]

I recently started learning Kung Fu at a local studio. I had been interested in studying Martial Arts for a long time and had gotten into Qi Gong because of that interest. While I continue to practice Qi Gong and appreciative the meditative and energetic aspects of the practice, I also wanted to branch out to a more martial form in order to better understand the differences, but also see how one practice might comment on the other.

While I definitely have gotten that benefit from starting to study Kung Fu, what I also came to appreciate about Kung Fu were the somatic benefits of the practice. As I learn a given move and enmesh it within my body memory, what stands out to me is how the practice engages me on multiple levels of knowing and consciousness. My body consciousness is engaged when I learn how to step or move a part of my body, but my memory is also engaged, both in learning the move, but also considering how I might have applied it in different situations in my life. My emotional consciousness is also engaged and I am able to work through and release emotions with the practice.

Somatic work has become a kind of buzz phrase of late in the holistic sphere of activities, but somatic studies have been around for a long time, and whenever I learn a new form of body work I look at how I can integrate it into the existing body practices I already practice. For example with Kung Fu, one of the experiences I’ve been paying more attention to is the angle of a movement. I first learned about the angle of a movement by studying the dance disciplines of Laban, who broke movements of the body into the platonic geometric shapes and showed how a given movement could be performed with these geometries in mind.

Read more at https://www.magicalexperiments.com/blog/2023/4/16/the-somatic-benefits-of-martial-arts

[toby-schuetgens-music]

Starting my day with some Qi Gong and kung fu practice, getting my mind and body in sync for a productive day in the studio! 🎧💪 #QiGong #KungFu #MartialArts #MindBodyConnection #EnergyFlow #Meditation #Fitness #HealthyLiving #Balance #Strength #Discipline #SelfImprovement #AudioEngineering #MusicProduction #StudioLife #SoundEngineering #SoundDesign #AudioPostProduction #CreativeProcess #Inspiration https://www.instagram.com/p/Cp_MPtcM6zG/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[plugoarts]

Wudang Wednesday today on THE COMICS FU SHOW with guest David Wei (魏 资 容, Wei Zi Rong, “Wayfarer of Vast Capacity”), is a 16th generation lineage holder of Wudang Zhang San Feng Pai, and a global instructor of Wudang Daoist wellness arts and traditional Chinese acupressure massage. Under the direct guidance of Daoist priest, Master Yuan Xiu Gang, David completed over 11,000 hours of formal training at the Wudang Mountain Traditional Taoist Martial Arts Academy, China, in 2007, at which time he was accepted as a senior disciple. During those five years, David practiced internal martial arts, medical Qi Gong and meditation. While in Wudang, he also trained under Master Du Yi Jun, a highly-esteemed blind master of Tui Na medical massage. David then became a certified Wat Po therapist from Wat Po Temple in Bangkok, Thailand, building on his previous training in Tui Na, Zen Shiatsu, Acu-oil, and Lomi Lomi at the Acupressure Institute. Prior to Wudang, he trained in traditional Shaolin Gong Fu and classical Chinese brush painting with renowned Master Y.C. Chiang at Wen Wu School. David has since travelled globally, conducting workshop intensives in China, Thailand, Bali, Czech Republic, Sweden, England, Germany, Canada, Mexico, Hawaii, and across the U.S. In 2012, David founded the Wudang West Cultural Heritage Center, a 501(c)3 non-profit wellness ministry, based in Oakland, California, committed to the practice and preservation of classical Chinese healing arts. @daguru69 #wudang #wutang #thecomicsfushow #interview #kungfutea #tea #taoism https://www.instagram.com/p/Cos--r6PslZ/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[lithrowsyou]

SKF Class #10

Pretty standard stuff for this class. Qi gong was fine and helpful for dealing with some of the stiffness from judo the day before and I’m really beginning to get the form down now too.

Moving onto the preparation class, it was over 30°C again so we trained outside. I actually really dislike this because the humidity kicks my asthma off and as part of the warmup we have to run up and down the long driveway (basically a short hill) which makes it even worse. We supposed to sprint up the hill, all I could do was a steady jog...

The flexibility kicks were also quite hard simply because my shoulders were so tired from judo that I just couldn't hold them up any longer. I carried on with kicks though its actually a lot harder without your arms up and out to the side. By this point the sun was just starting to set so the temperature and that blasted humidity mercifully dropped as well. This made doing the traditional combinations SOOOOO much easier. We even began introducing low kicks into the fighting combos which was fun. They were basically low roundhouse kicks but the movement is a little different then what I learned in karate; less snap and more rotation and power, almost like when a football or rugby player goes for those distance kicks and a lot like what I’ve often seen in Muay Thai:

I started to get the movement down by the end so hopefully it will come a little easier by my next class.

[uwmspeccoll]

                                        Figure 1. Liu Kunyi’s Portrait

Figure 2. Liu Kunyi’s scroll (UWM Special Collections, cs000103)

Graduate Research: Chinese Scroll and Fan Work, Part 7

This week we concentrate on a calligraphic hanging scroll (Figure 2) by the late 19th-century Chinese government official Liu Kunyi (1830-1902, Figure 1) from Special Collections’ Zhou Cezong Collection of Chinese scroll and fan work.

In previous blogs, I mentioned the interchangeability between artistic style and the artist’s temperament. However, for Chinese masters, the content of the artwork should also be considered. In this scroll, the content reads:

Prune flower will invite butterfly; pile rockery will invite cloud; plant pine will invite zephyr; sow willow will invite cicada; reserve water will invite duckweed; build terrace will invite moon; grow plantain will invite rain; collect book will invite friend; and accumulate morality will invite heaven.

This scroll is executed with the gentle rhythm and measured control---the plumpness of the brush style is partly derived from the semi-cursive writing (Figure 3) of Zhao Lingzhi (1051-1134), with the artistic idiom of Su Dongpo (1037-1101) as the common progenitor. The brushstroke not only reflects the author’s leisure, buoyancy, and composure, but also matches the idyllic scenery and natural vibrancy from the text. According to Qi Gong, the great connoisseur of Chinese painting and calligraphy, it would be improper for calligraphers to use the round and majestic strokes of Yan Zhenqing (709-785) to transcribe a subtle and romantic lyric; likewise, it is objectionable to apply the graceful lines Chu Suiliang (596-658) to depict the coarse utterance of a scoundrel in a drama. Hence, the tripartite fusion within art, temperament, and content is regarded as one of the most complicated topics in Chinese art history.

Figure 3.  Zhao Lingzhi ‘s calligraphy (from the Digital Archive of the National Palace Museum)

                                          Figure 4. Detail from Figure 2

Figure 5. Mi Fu’s calligraphy (from ColBase: Integrated Collections Database of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, Japan)

It is important to note that apart from this leisurely gentleness, the artwork pulsates with confidence. The Flying White in Figure 4, a white discontinuous streak in the stroke created by the swift movement of the brush, indicates the author’s following of Mi Fu (1051-1107)’s style, which resembles “a swift horse cutting through an encampment (Figure 5).” This confidence is also indicative of Liu’s great success in the late Qing politics.

As the governor-general of Liang Jiang (Jiangshu, Jiangxi, and Anhui Province) and the superintendent of trade for southern ports (Duan Fang, who I mentioned in my last post, was his later successor), Liu was an most important forerunner in initiating the government-lead modernization movement at the beginning of 20th century. On July 1902, Liu and Zhang Zhidong (1837-1909), another powerful viceroy of the country, submitted three joint memorials to the throne advocating new policies in order to achieve political modernization. Though he did not problematize the issue by stipulating specific regulations to practice  constitutionalism and promote human rights, his farsightedness compelled the court to make a dramatic reversal in a centuries-long system, and move toward the steady construction of a more powerful modern state.

His confidence might also be connected with his two incredible disobediences to the court: first, in the early spring 1900, he was instrumental in blocking the Empress Dowager’s scheme to depose the Guanxu Emperor---the involvement of governors in the alternations of the throne was unprecedented in Chinese modern history; secondly, on June of the same year, he openly disobeyed the Empress Dowager’s edit to exterminate all foreigners in China. Negotiating with the foreign consulates without the imprimatur from the government, he had the audacity to sabotage the court’s order and assumed responsibility to protect foreign lives and properties within his jurisprudence (Duan Fang did the same thing). His extraordinary courage protected southern China and left it unscathed from the political melee, paving the way for the later reform initiative.

View more posts from the Zhou Cezong Collection of Chinese scroll and fan work.

– Jingwei Zeng, Special Collections graduate researcher. 

[sagetoday]

Master the Essentials of Daoist Gong Fu

Daoist Gong Fu Basic Fist Tutorial The Gong Fu Basic Fist, known as Jīběnquán (基本拳), serves as the foundation of internal Daoist martial arts. This essential form encompasses crucial techniques that introduce practitioners to various positions and transitions, promoting internal movement and relaxation. By mastering the Basic Fist, students develop awareness of their body and energy flow, which are vital for advancing in martial arts practice. This tutorial provides a pathway to not only improve physical skills but also foster a deeper connection to one’s inner self. To learn the techniques and benefits of the Daoist Gong Fu Basic Fist, please visit the link below: https://www.sage.blue/jibenquan/ Start your journey into the heart of Daoist martial arts and cultivate your inner strength today!

[goldrockyroad]

now that the season is over here are chuang2021 moments i cannot believe are real, a list that only gets longer and in no particular order: 

- that entire bit of them choosing their dorm rooms, including but not limited to:

lin mo copping his double room only to lose it + his mental breakdown after that

almost 20 of them fighting to have hiroto stay in their room

nine and patrick's 'we break up' (only for patrick to move in after 1st round of eliminations) 

ak: ‘does rikimaru snore?’ santa: ‘yeah, very loudly’ ak: ‘oh NOOOO i’m scREWED’ 

- hanfu shop owner liu yu

- han meijuan training base: 

yu gengyin’s ‘i am a proud fishie swimming into your heart’ 

also yu gengyin: ‘i’m a little scared that the debut lineup will end up being 11 han meijuans’ 

zhang xinyao dropping it low. that’s it. 

han peiquan: ‘look at that santa, he can dance so well but can he do this? he can play the drums but ask him to come here, can he do it? no way’ 

the entire “just go where you want” performance including their intro + mentors comments + xie xingyang’s slogans

but even more so “just go where you want” 2.0 LIVE AT THE FINALS 

- the mentors dancing along to ‘vote for me xoxo’ during “just go where you want” 2.0 before carrying and promptly drOPPING zhou shen onto the floor before the rest of them pretend like nothing happened in time for the ending pose 

- “when i’m with you”, “unbreakable love”, “just go where you want” > the actual theme song all day every day 

- don't be shy @/tencent , give me all the clips of gan wangxing singing jing long's “lost you” (diu le ni) + more of the both of them dancing to crab dance backstage

- zhou shen, to shao mingming on the verge of having a meltdown over mean comments about him as practice for “i don’t care” stage: ‘do you want to hear the next comment?’ shao mingming, as the others start laughing: ‘plEASE NO’ zhou shen, reading the comment anyway: ‘he only knows how to cry’ cue maniac laughter from all of them 

- just hanjiang, really 

zhang xinyao, on “feng ding” stage: ‘it was so good. also i wanna add hanjiang you look like huluwa’

to wu yuheng after “i don’t care” team’s performance: ‘there’s only one word to describe you - handsome. first time i saw you i went, woah, handsome. saw you on stage performing - woah, handsome. seriously, handsome’ 

xue bayi, backstage: ‘i think he’s said that to me too’ 

when called up at 2nd eliminations: ‘what’s manga-like man?’ another trainee: ‘ means you look like you came out of a manga’ zhou zhennan: ‘yeah it’s like fei yang yang came out of the page into real life’ 

domineering ceo with all of them either screaming or looking mildly uncomfortable 

literally scREAMING to get people to join “zui kuen” team 

more importantly hanjiang’s dad imitating him scream to get people to join “zui kuen” team to a dAMN T 

- patrick: ‘hello everyone i am your ocean prince patrick!’ wu hai: ‘and i am the ocean’ [for non-chinese speaking fans of chuang, the hai 海 in wu hai means ocean] + the continuation of this on wu hai’s dorm diary

- “unbreakable love” 2.0 !!!! put it on spotify right now !!!!!

- da-geTM bo yuan 

fu sichao, on bo yuan getting 9th for 2nd eliminations: ‘that feeling when your own old man (laughs for a bit) when your old man gets a really good grade, it’s indescribable happiness’

amu: ‘bo yuan’s like my grandpa, and he might as well be’  

eisho’s ‘bo yuan gege’ 

hiroto getting other trainees to call him da-ge on dorm diary but having bo yuan as his da-ge 

or alternatively, yuan-shu [uncle yuan], as seen after using the term fanersai（凡尔赛）[literally means versailles, a slang that means the same thing as flexing / humblebragging in english] 

- gan wangxing unintentional comedian

han peiquan, on his first impressions of gan wangxing: ‘he’s such so good-looking, and then he opens his mouth (disbelievingly rolls his eyes) i almost died right there’ 

on being 11th for 2nd eliminations: ‘in the past, my life plan was that after graduating from university, i’d find a stable job and live a nine-to-five life. and i used to fantasize that in my future i’d be able to find a wife early, drive a car to bring her travelling, we can listen to some music and lift our heads to see the stars’ 

other trainees: laughing and going ‘oOHHHH’, notably including xie xingyang: ‘he’s still fantasizing!’ 

also other trainees, after seeing the video his family sent to cheer him on: ‘where’s the wife? where’s the wife!’ 

also ‘hello, look at me’ coming up everytime he shows up

case in point - the mentors erupting into laughter when gan wangxing steps forward to do his evaluation, notably zhou zhennan: ‘kill me with it!’ [i’m not sure how to translate what he actually said in a better way than that], nene following up by simply going ‘hello’, zhou zhennan immediately picking it up while still laughing: ‘look at me’

holding the umbrella for nene at the end of “it’s raining and i’m thinking of you” stage just for all the trainees backstage to go ‘why’s it you!’ 

Very Passionately telling gong jun what jing long taught him on singing

- ‘andy lau has come to visit our zoo!’ 

- wu yuheng’s quest for chilli sauce in his dorm diary:

wu yuheng and fu sichao terrorising a staff member for chilli sauce until the staff goes to wu yuheng ‘if you wake him (fu sichao) up every morning i’ll make sure you get your chilli sauce’ to which fu sichao says to wu yuheng ‘you know what chilli sauce isn’t that great let’s go’ 

wu yuheng straight up drinking zhou keyu’s chilli sauce because i could never 

- liu yu confessing to lin mo as a dare from shao mingming but lin mo’s in the toilet so liu yu has to awkwardly do it standing outside the cubicle door while shao mingming and xue bayi eat the drama up 

- oscar’s reaction to people finding out his real name + the entire ‘xiong xiong’ saga 

- lelush with a pearl earring 

- rikimaru moments that deserve a segment of their own 

having the first comment on his first solo performance be ‘drop your skincare routine’ [essentially] because the mentors didn’t have anything to critique on his performance 

at the start of his speech at 3rd eliminations, when it was clearly evening: ‘good morning’ 

getting very sad over the fact that yumeri didn't send him a video to cheer him on + being jealous every time someone's sister showing up in the videos

- speaking of sisters, the guys simping over amu's sisters + amu, asking the mentors when trainees had the chance to dedicate a few words to each other during the final livestream: 'can my sisters come next year?'

- santa, on preparation for nana party stage: ‘she (mao xiaotong) learnt the choreography really fast, and even if she made mistakes she’ll be like *makes cute expressions* so even when she did i’d be like “it’s ok! no problem!” she’s so cute’ the staff interviewing him: ‘is this the santa we know?’ 

- “the adventure” team making fun of their female guest before finding out said female guest was meng meiqi aka goddess incarnate AND had been watching them make fun of her through the cameras 

- lin mo’s bat song

- xie xingyang discreetly stealing food from the staff on their movie night that was originally supposed to only be for those who used their beans before a whole group of them [led by jing long, consisting of xie xingyang, wei ziyue, hu yetao and others] just go and outright take it with nine hugging the staff member to let them take the food that entire bts video is a mess and you know what? that’s what i’m here for

- zhou zhennan’s constant ‘wtf’ face 

- that chuang x GQ beach video 

- gong jun’s entire time on chuang, but especially the moments with zhou shen. felt like a fever dream tbh