This is the latest video to be released on The Monkey Temple.
In this video we look at Beng Chuan, one of the Five Elements of Xing Yi Chuan. It is associated with the element of Wood and the liver.
Beng Chuan, also known as Crushing or Smashing fist when practiced, is said to be like an arrow shot from a bow. With Pi Chuan (Splitting Fist), we bring the power up the back and down the front. With Dwan Chuan (Drilling Fist), the power goes down the back and rises up the front. However, when practicing Beng Chuan, the power shoots from the centre in a straight line an arrow shot from a bow.
Take your time with this video. There is a lot in it. It shows three ways to execute Beng Chuan and Pi Chuan when practiced with the character of the Dragon. This is a beautiful movement and is great for leg strength, balance and full body power. Remember, you don’t need twenty forms with 108 moves each, you just need to practice the basics repeatedly, short forms like this are a perfect example. It’s the basics that lead to a high level of skill.
To build a strong foundation in Xing Yi Chuan, it is traditionally said that we need to first practice Santishr (Trinity Stance) and prioritize Pi Chuan and Beng Chuan for three years. Then we move through the other elements.
This art, like Tai Chi has a deep understanding of health practices. How to nourish the organs of the body, how to fortify the blood and Chi and how to strengthen the bones and connective tissues.