Zi Ran Men

Zi Ran Men (zh-ts|t=自然門|s=自然门; literally “the natural style”), also known as Natural Boxing, is a Northern internal style of Kung Fu that is taught in conjunction with Qigong breathing techniques. The style traces its lineage to Dwarf Xu, who based it on ancient Taoist philosophy. Du Xin Wu, the next bearer of the lineage, served as a bodyguard to Sun Yat-sen, then the provisional president of the Republic of China. Wu imparted his knowledge of "Natural Boxing" to Wan Lai Shen, a prominent twentieth century martial artist.

Philosophy

Zi Ran Men/nature boxing is based on ancient Taoist philosophy, Traditional Chinese Medical Theory and, most importantly, the philosophy of "One and Zero". It combines physical training,Chi kung, meditation and combat techniques. Through training, Zi Ran Men is said to enhancethe spirit of the mind, regulate the circulation of Chi and develops physical sensitivity.According to practitioners when the body is in harmony, you will live a long and healthy life.

Zi Ran Men Theory

动静无终， 变化无端， 虚虚实实， 自然而然。This is the entire theory behind the Zi Ran Men Art， which roughly translates to：There is no beginning or end to the movement (implying both physical action and progress).Change is a constant and varying.Use softness as hard power,and if applied successfully, [true power] comes naturally.

Zi Ran Men Chi Kung

Chi Kung is the primary concern in Zi Ran Men. It is divided into two components: Physical training, and combat techniques. These two components combine for one purpose, which is said to enhance the health of body and mind.

Combat Techniques

Initially, students learn particular forms and follow certain rules. Through practice, these movements progress from awkward to natural. When this level is reached, you can fight successfully.

The methods of Zi Ran Men combat follow the rules of nature - apply the techniques without thought, movements come from nothing.

Stance

When still, the stance resembles an ancient Chinese General holding a decree tablet. This is known as "Bao Bei Shou". When moving, the feet remain in the shape of the letter 'T' and the hands hold the form of "Ghost Hands".

Fighting the enemy

Avoid the attack. Retaliate when his force is spent, before he has time to regather. Move when the enemy moves, attack when he attacks. Exploit the situation, be light and nimble. Attack is within defence. Defence is within attack, both real and apparent.

ee also

*List of Chinese martial arts

External links

* [http://www.ziranmen.com Zi Ran Men Kung Fu Academy]
* [http://www.sifuchenying.com/ziranmen.shtml Ziranmen at The Contemporary Wushu]
* [http://www.ziranmenkungfu.com Ziranmen School in USA & CHINA]
* [http://www.wanlaisheng.com Ziranmen School in France]