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What is Chowa Ryu

Chowa Ryu is a non-competitive style of push-hands that promotes well being and self-discovery.  It is based on the principle that contact reflex training through the medium of push-hands (tui sho) can be used very effectively as a moving meditation. The practice follows the work of Nathan Johnson (author of 'Barefoot Zen') and Ian Smith (founder of Shizenryu), amongst others, in developing push-hands as a means of meditation and self-discovery.   A typical Chowa Ryu class will include: Moving Qi Gong to develop a strong root, good posture and the relaxed breath control needed in push-hands .  We mainly use the Shibashi Qi Gong and Sanchin form to this end.  Solo forms practice.  Chowa Ryu uses 4 forms to learn and develop the principles used in the push-hands practice.  The 4 forms are Sanchin (core framework for our push-hands), Mara (centre shifting to generate more dynamic forces), Rokushu (grip releases) and Naifuanchin (double-handed grappling).  Blending the principles from these forms produces  Chowa-ryu's harmonious yet varied and spontaneous push-hands. Push-hands.  The largest portion of the class will be spent practising push-hands.      The name 'Chowa Ryu' means 'Harmony School', and learning how to find harmony or balance with a practice partner is the key to Chowa Ryu push-hands.  However, harmony does not mean inactivity or passivity, rather it means learning to do just what is needed, no more and no less either physically or emotionally.  This may seem very serious and high-minded, and the practice can have very profound moments, but above all the practice must be approached with a light heart and a sense of fun.  The classes are relaxed and informal, and each student is encouraged to approach the practice at their own pace.  Chowa Ryu is in the end about learning to enjoy just being yourself in whatever you do.    [ Home page]