In Zhan Zhuang training, a correct position is when the weight is equally balanced on two feet to form a comfortable and relaxing position, an opportunity for the intent to appear and work. Zhan Zhuang works by applying the concept of intent over physical force to improve all the physiological organs and their functions. Today, there are many publications confirming that one's mental condition is directly affected by the physical body. In Zhan Zhuang training, we use the mind to train the body.
Although one is standing in a physically still position, the intent is working very hard inside the body to harmonize all physiological organs with this particular positon so that all parts of the body are contributing to maintain this static position. There are three steps of Zhan Zhuang training associated with martial art's high demand: recognization, harmony, and application.
1.Recognization
In this step, the intent is focused on positioning the body correctly to
maximize the training of physical and mental conditions. Most people, standing
still for only one minute will begin to experience difficulty, such as physical
discomfort, mental doubts and shortness of breathe. When confronted with these
situations, a practitioner should begin to develop different forms of intent to
reduce physical pain, gain confidence and enjoyment. One common method of
focusing and eliminating difficulties is to imagine standing infront of a
tranquil environment. When one can stand in a position for 15 minutes without
any problem, one can go onto the next step.
2. Harmony
In this step, the intent is focused on the body's togetherness by
utilizing the 'method of opposition'. In any martial strike, a powerful strike
is always associated with the whole body. The better the unification, the more
power there is the strike and less possibility of physical injury to the
practitioner. In this step of Zhan Zhuang a practitioner imagines every part
of his body's muscles relaxing and stretching so that they end up with forces
pulling from top and bottom, left and right, front and back, in all directions.
When one can stand in a position for 10 minutes without tiring, one can go onto
the next step.
3. Application
In this step, the intent is focused on the goal of martial application.
One of the characteristics of martial arts is that they are dynamic. Therefore,
martial arts techniques are alway associated with physical movement in order to
be effective. A practitioner should imagine an opponent is attacking from a
certain direction and that one must mobilize the whole body from inside and
outside, top and bottom, left and right, front and back to neutralize the
threat. Since it is difficult to coordinate physical movement and intent's
creativity, it is better control if one begins with a slower movement and
simpler concept of intent.
Later on, when one is practicing Zhan Zhuang with a stronger intent and quicker physical motions, one will witness more power developed by discharging through physical movement. There are not many martial art styles that apply this bare handed Fa Jing method to developed power. One reason is that if the movement is not executed property, one will end up with physical injury. Therefore, this method is not recommended for beginners, it is recommended for more experienced practitioners. A better method the beginner is to use a staff or spear.
The result of this Zhan Zhuang training is great. However, one should not fool himself. There is no short cut, begin with one step as a time. One must master the first step before engaging in the second and third steps. A tall building begins with a strong foundation.
Article By Vincent Chu