Internal Martial Arts

Our Internal Martial Arts Course is designed to develop internal strength and character through the movements of Xing Yi, Ba Gua and Tai Chi. As a member and black sash holder (Simone Olivier #124), this course is certified through the Ching Yi Kung Fu Association. Completion of this course results in your first black sash. All subsequent sashes are determined by your contribution to the Internal Martial Arts.

This self-paced 3-year course includes 36 modules. Each module includes practice videos, lecture videos, required and recommended reading and assignments. Weekly practice time is offered in person and online. At the end of each year, you will be tested on your forms. Once you have completed the course requirements and passed the written and physical tests, you will receive your certificate of completion and will be added as a Black Sash holder in the Ching Yi Kung Fu Association.

Xing Yi engages the heart and mind with intention through the movements of the body, neuro-muscularly reprograms the body to work more efficiently by firing the right muscles at the right moment, reduces inefficiency (loss of energy) and optimizes the strength and fluidity of the body in motion. Based on the 5 Elements, this yang practice helps to train the mind to focus with intention, leading to the ability to follow the heart.

Ba Gua, also known as Circle Walking, is a yin-based practice combining the benefits of walking with Qi Gong and Meditation. Based on the 8 phenomena, Ba Gua teaches us how to change directions. The turning and twisting movements create a spiraling action, activating the muscles and energetic pathways of the body. With deep abdominal breathing, the body can be sensed as a whole, allowing the mind to be quiet and observant.

Taiji (Tai Chi), the great polarity, is about transformation; transforming our original qi into spirit. The 5 Elements and 8 Phenomena make up the body of Taiji Quan and their relationship to the universe. The emphasis of the forms is to learn how to move with intention, alignment and balance. Through the practice of Tai Chi you learn to balance and harmonize yin and yang, movement and stillness.