The process of figuring out my 5 applications was an enormous challenge for me. Every time I tried to start my brain would just freeze and I was unable to generate any sort of momentum. I was so far out of my comfort zone I was unable to see a path forward and felt like I was up against a brick wall.
Part of the problem stems from my spirit wanting to duck and hide when it comes to intense situations where there is potential for a lack of control or even just the unknown. Sihing Csillag recently talked about the internal harmonies in class. I found his explanation of spirit helpful. While I may not be a fighter I believe I would do what was needed in order to save myself or someone close to me.
It took conversations with blackbelts and watching self defense videos to help my internal mindset and slowly fuel an understanding of the role self defense plays in my training and life. After numerous starts and stops I slowly began to crawl my way forward and up until I finally had 5 applications.
Now that I've been able to find my way over the wall, I am actually enjoying myself. Each time I work on my 5 applications, concepts are reinforced and I learn more about what works, why it works and how to make them better. Being able to apply concepts we are taught and feel the difference is eye opening.
I'm learning the value of working with a good partner. Communication, feedback, intent and a degree of realism have provided opportunities for both of us to learn and grow.
I'm discovering where my power zone is. Too much space equals less power and control. With control my technique works much better and my opponent/partner has fewer options and less time to think and counter.
Working with a few different partners has also helped me to see how suddenly a technique no longer gets the same results. A difference in height, size and flexibility requires adjustments to be made. I didn't spend a lot of time with other partners, but there were opportunities to learn and figure out how to make some adjustments.
I also noticed that having my eyes up changes my body language, confidence and therefore my ability to be more effective.
The value of building and working on my 5 techniques has been immense and an important piece of the overall Kung Fu puzzle.
Totals
Push ups: 480/41865
Situps: 480/41960
Hand form: 2/797
Weapon form: 6/717
KM: 37/1705
AOK: 16/1537
Sparring: 0/705
Blogs: 1/61
Yoga: 30 min/39.5 hours
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