Perhaps the best way to understand this theory is to visualize the geometric representation of yin and yang (see Fig. 1). Western culture, unlike Chinese culture, classifies phenomena into fixed opposites; for example, day and night could be configured as a square divided in half.
This relationship could also be depicted within a circular shape that shows how the opposites together form a whole. Neither of these conceptions show any interaction between the opposites, a typically Western perspective. In Chinese culture, however, yin and yang are configured within a circular shape that expresses the interaction and complementary nature of opposites.
The curving line that connects the two entities expresses change, the basic idea underlying the theory of yin and yang. Yin and yang, therefore, represent the continual process of change and flux in nature: day (yang) is always changing into night (yin) and night is always changing into day. This relationship is most fully illustrated by the taiji diagram.
Figure 1
Not only do yin and yang continuously interact, but the yin always contains some yang, and the yang always contains some yin. No pure yin or yang exists, only varying degrees of interaction between the two. The essence of this idea is found in the Chinese saying: “Creation never stops: yang reaches its limit and gives birth to yin; yin reaches its limit and gives birth to yang.”
Many of the old masters were illiterate and could not explain their art, but their kung-fu naturally conformed to the principles of yin and yang.
The Chinese use the theory of yin and yang to explain all facets of life, such as medicine, painting, architecture, weather, food, and kung-fu. Comprehending this theory is not essential to the practice of kung-fu or any other art. Many of the old masters were illiterate and could not explain their art, but their kung-fu naturally conformed to the principles of yin and yang. Mastering kung-fu is impossible without knowingly or unknowingly following the principles of this theory.
Although philosophy is not a substitute for physical training, understanding yin and yang can help practitioners improve their technique. Western culture, for example, evolved based on a philosophical foundation that typically views concepts as fixed, or black and white. Grasping the theory of yin and yang serves to bridge that cultural gap and demonstrate a fundamental aspect of kung-fu.
The theory of yin and yang as applied to the martial arts is quite practical. In a settled stance, for example, all the parts of the body in shadow are considered yin, and the remaining parts, yang. In the taijiquan movement danbian (single whip), the shaded areas and the backside of the body are yin (Fig. 2). Since kung-fu is not a static form, yin and yang can also be applied to the body in motion. In general, any outward movement is considered yang and any inward movement is yin. Danbian is basically a yang movement: both arms and the leg clearly extend outward. When considering this movement from beginning to end, rather than the climax of the movement, or taijiquan (or any kung-fu style) in general, the yin and yang constantly change.
At the beginning of the movement both the arms and legs are closer to the body (yin) (Fig. 3). Then the leg moves out and the whole body uncoils in a highly coordinated twisting action to complete the movement. Note how the arm changes from yin, facing the body to yang, facing and extended away from the body.
Other aspects that characterize a movement are also classified as yin or yang. Any movement that is hard, fast, strong, or clear is yang; movements that are softer, slower, or less obvious are yin. Then jing (power) that is stored or released is also described similarly in terms of yin and yang. In a major attacking movement (yang), for instance, there are smaller, supporting movements that are yin. In danbian the shoulder, hip, and knee are less obvious parts of the body that may be used in attacking. Kung-fu never violates the principles of yin and yang-the yang always contains some yin and the yin contains some yang. As the saying goes: “Yin by itself cannot create; yang by itself cannot grow.”
When the power and movements are balanced and calm, not committed to any fixed pattern, then the percentage of yin and yang jing used to issue the power can easily be changed as the situation demands.
In the taiji diagram yin and yang are mixed, with some yin in the yang and vice versa. In terms of jing, the soft (yin) and hard (yang) energies are mixed in the same way. Soft and hard does not mean weak and strong; it simply implies different kinds of power. Having the ability to manage the jing is important in kung-fu. For example, being able to balance the yin and yang jing has many advantages. Because you don’t know which part of your body you will have to use to attack or defend, or the expertise of your opponent, a calm, balanced awareness should be maintained. When the power and movements are balanced and calm, not committed to any fixed pattern, then the percentage of yin and yang jing used to issue the power can easily be changed as the situation demands.
Figure 2
Figure 3
The training of baguazhang emphasizes this idea. Another name for baguazhang— yin yang bapanzhang (yin and yang eight circling palm)—aptly describes this system. Yin and yang are continually changing in the circular twisting movements, but the jing is balanced. Of course, the percentage of yin and yang changes when a weakness is created or appears in the opponent’s defense, and the power is issued.
The art of xingyiquan has three levels of training for power. Ming jing (clear) develops the obvious, more observable energy. An jing (dark) develops the concealed, less obvious energy, and hua jing (melting) combines the clear (yang) and dark (yin) as in the taiji diagram. At the higher levels of any kung-fu system, the practitioner is able to control the jing; and direct the flow of energy as well as the movement of the body according to the principles of yin and yang.
Understanding the theory of yin and yang can give insight into the depth and sophistication of Chinese philosophy and kung-fu. Both kung-fu and the theory of yin and yang were developed to satisfy the practical needs of the ancient Chinese. Acquiring that understanding is best accomplished through practical, direct experience such as learning kung-fu. Then the theory becomes a reality.
Part 2
The Foundation
of Kung-fu
Mapping Kung-fu’s DNA
We definitely live in a modern age compared to the world in which kung-fu originated. Every day more science fiction becomes science fact as a rapidly increasing array of technological wonders enhance our daily lives. Nowadays when we have a problem or mystery to solve, we can choose from many sophisticated tools to help clear away the confusion and lead us to the truth. DNA testing, for instance, is used in such diverse areas as archaeology, criminology, and medicine. These high-tech tools not only provide society with sophisticated, reliable investigative techniques but also affect our individual attitudes. Today, we are more prone to gather convincing evidence before jumping to conclusions.
Stance training builds a very strong foundation, which