Martial Arts, Chicago - Internal Training for Martial Arts

PROGRAMS: INTERNAL TRAINING FOR MARTIAL ARTS

3717 N Ravenswood, #113 » Chicago, IL 60613 » 773.472.3290 » info@shinjinkai.org

Internal training refers to various methods used in traditional martial arts to develop highly evolved energetic, physical and mental qualities. Generally speaking, such methods emphasize the cultivation of ki (life-force or universal energy) and a relaxed, highly unified body rather than untrained muscular tension.

The energetic models of the body detailed in Buddhist and Taoist practice are also accepted in many martial traditions: it is believed that energy can be gathered in various centers of the body through breathing and other exercises, circulated within specific channels or meridians, and even extended outward to others. Results of such training include greater health, dynamic vitality, and tremendous personal power.

Internal training at Shinjinkai draws upon methods handed down by various teachers in our lineages, including masters of martial arts and Zen. Training centers on Kokyuho, Hara Tanren, and the Naikan/Nanso no Ho exercises:

Kokyuho are various breathing methods which cultivate ki and cause it to circulate throughout the body. Some of these are similar to what would be called pranayama in Indian yogic traditions, or qigong in Chinese traditions. The primary purpose of these exercises is to unblock obstructions to the flow of energy and to energize body and mind. Powerful but gentle, they are excellent for health and reduction of stress.

Hara Tanren refers to a series of vigorous training methods focusing on the hara, the body's "center" in the lower abdomen. Hara training involves several stages, beginning with the development of deep and energetic breathing that creates pressure in this center. When this pressure is maintained, tension drops from the upper body and ki is developed powerfully at the navel center (tanden). Physical conditioning and movement exercises develop and reinforce this center, training unified whole-body movement and the efficient absorption or transference of power. In later stages, with increasing relaxation and softness, one may experience the transcendence of any fixed center, in oneness with the bodies of others.

Naikan and Nanso no Ho are two specific energetic exercises passed down within the Rinzai school of Zen from the famous 18th century master Hakuin Ekaku Zenji. Using introspective concentration and visualization, they cultivate ki and use it to remove physical and mental obstructions. Hakuin famously used these practices to heal himself from a life-threatening illness and nervous exhaustion caused by his severe Zen training. They are just as effective today for healing, releasing stress, and realizing health and well-being.

Various other physical training methods are also used in Internal Training, including simple shiatsu (massage) techniques for releasing tension in the body and opening the meridians. Additional internal practices involving visualization, mantra (sounds with particular vibratory effect), and mudra (gestures having symbolic and energetic significance) may also be taught to students deemed suited to such instruction.

The Internal Training class at Shinjinkai is open to all martial artists, and also to any adult who wishes to benefit from these practices serving to actualize mind-body unification.

Internal Training class meets once per week at Shinjinkai H.Q. in Chicago:

Thursdays, 5:45 - 6:45 p.m.

Members of Shinjinkai's various martial art programs who are already paying a monthly dues may attend this weekly class free of additional charge. Others, please click to download our full schedule and fee information (or click the red Information button to your left).

You are welcome to come in for a free trial lesson; please email us to make an appointment: info@shinjinkai.org