There are no hard and fast rules as to what constitutes an internal vs. An external martial art, but broadly, external approaches focus on the development of physical power and skills. The emphasis is on muscular strength and powerful movements. Internal martial arts on the other hand, have more focus on mental and spiritual development.
The emphasis here is on relaxation, soft, fluid movements and inner power. However, the lower-key nature of these styles should not distract from their utility as fighting/self-defense methods. They can be every bit as powerful and effective as the external forms.
Indeed, although the emphasis is on inner development, the internal schools certainly recognize the importance of strength and resilience. Attention is given to hard skills like combat techniques, weapons training, strength and endurance (although schools will vary in how much emphasis is given to these elements). The goal though, is to incorporate hard skills into an overall alignment of body, mind and spirit.
These hard skills combined with inner control can give internal practitioners a distinct advantage over their more aggressive external brethren. It's an inner poise that in large part comes from their development of qi. Qi, according to Chinese tradition, is the invisible life-force that animates all living things. It is the source of physical vitality and internal martial artists work to raise their qi and direct it around their bodies at will.
The overall aim of this is to develop strength from within. This bolsters overall health and enables practitioners to execute their art with greater ease and skill. Strong, vital martial artists can land kicks and blows with greater force, and also better withstand the attacks of their opponents. Health and vitality also supports longevity. Master martial artists often maintain their formidable powers well into old age.
One of the main ways that qi is developed is through breath work. It is generated and manipulated through specialized deep breathing techniques and involves re-training students to breathe from the abdomen. This can be challenging since most people habitually breathe shallowly and from the upper chest. However, once learned, students can begin to increase their qi and become attuned to its presence in their bodies.
This sensitivity enables them to detect where qi may be blocked or where more or less may be needed. If imbalances are detected, they can be by alleviated by directing the qi appropriately. Deep breathing also enables practitioners to increase their oxygen intake. This helps boost the immediate energy needed for physical challenges, but it also supports overall health.
Indeed, in the US, and particularly in health-conscious regions like California, these forms (such as Qigong) have become hugely popular as a route to greater health and vitality. Many also seek the greater mental poise and peace of mind that internal training can provide. After only weeks of regular practice, many people find their minds becoming quieter and that they have a renewed sense of health and vigor. With long-term practice, the mental and physical benefits become profoundly life-changing.
The emphasis here is on relaxation, soft, fluid movements and inner power. However, the lower-key nature of these styles should not distract from their utility as fighting/self-defense methods. They can be every bit as powerful and effective as the external forms.
Indeed, although the emphasis is on inner development, the internal schools certainly recognize the importance of strength and resilience. Attention is given to hard skills like combat techniques, weapons training, strength and endurance (although schools will vary in how much emphasis is given to these elements). The goal though, is to incorporate hard skills into an overall alignment of body, mind and spirit.
These hard skills combined with inner control can give internal practitioners a distinct advantage over their more aggressive external brethren. It's an inner poise that in large part comes from their development of qi. Qi, according to Chinese tradition, is the invisible life-force that animates all living things. It is the source of physical vitality and internal martial artists work to raise their qi and direct it around their bodies at will.
The overall aim of this is to develop strength from within. This bolsters overall health and enables practitioners to execute their art with greater ease and skill. Strong, vital martial artists can land kicks and blows with greater force, and also better withstand the attacks of their opponents. Health and vitality also supports longevity. Master martial artists often maintain their formidable powers well into old age.
One of the main ways that qi is developed is through breath work. It is generated and manipulated through specialized deep breathing techniques and involves re-training students to breathe from the abdomen. This can be challenging since most people habitually breathe shallowly and from the upper chest. However, once learned, students can begin to increase their qi and become attuned to its presence in their bodies.
This sensitivity enables them to detect where qi may be blocked or where more or less may be needed. If imbalances are detected, they can be by alleviated by directing the qi appropriately. Deep breathing also enables practitioners to increase their oxygen intake. This helps boost the immediate energy needed for physical challenges, but it also supports overall health.
Indeed, in the US, and particularly in health-conscious regions like California, these forms (such as Qigong) have become hugely popular as a route to greater health and vitality. Many also seek the greater mental poise and peace of mind that internal training can provide. After only weeks of regular practice, many people find their minds becoming quieter and that they have a renewed sense of health and vigor. With long-term practice, the mental and physical benefits become profoundly life-changing.
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