D04. Wudang Taiyi Xuanmen Sword
elementary: 6 months; intermediate: 2 months
Performing in both fast and slow paces, this swordsmanship contains both strength and softness. It trains the body to lead the sword and the sword to follow the body. Internal integration is emphasized, i.e. shape-mind coordination, mind-Qi coordination and Qi-spirit coordination. Besides, the movements of arms, eyes, body, method and stance have to be in line with internal integration. The swordsmanship features striking, hanging, stirring, stabbing, pointing, and poking. The learner should master the sword theory so that the sword’s temperament can be played thoroughly to co-operate the body and the sword as one unit. It seems that the swordsman is “shaking the sky to scare birds into flying, rolling the dust without touching it. The wind does not see the sword in a hit, and the sword is not seen but the swordsman when changing.” When moving, it looks like dragon emerging from the water. When steadying, it looks like a cat catching the mouse. During the movement, the arms divide the Yin-Yang, the body contains the Eight Trigrams, and the stances follow the Nine Palaces. The whole movement has to match the Qi internally and the form externally. The one who reaches this stage should be an excellent Wudang swordsman. The swordsmanship puts emphasis on the unification of man and the sword so that the force reaches the blade of the sword, the sword fills with the Qi and the sword can be used as the spear. When fighting, it outflanks the enemy by attacking slantingly to avoid upright confrontation. This swordsmanship moves in a moderate speed and fits people of different characters or weak physique. Long-term practice would enhance the health and responsiveness.
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Video Demonstration(click the picture)
