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Chowa Ryu is a
practice that has balance at its very core. In every aspect of the
art we are trying to harmonise yin and yang elements. Thus, the
practice is both serious and fun, easy to learn and difficult to
master, a physical workout and relaxing all at the same
time!
Chowa Ryu shares much with other arts, particularly
Taiji Quan (Tai Chi). The forms and the push-hands are all practised
in soft and flowing manner, with emphasis on relaxation and good
posture. The practice includes some gentle stretching and Shibashi
qi gong (energy/breath work) making it a complete system. It offers
the same health benefits as Taiji with the advantage that the forms
and the Shibashi are relatively short; making them easy to learn and
to start practising for health and well being.
However, Chowa
Ryu is more than just a physical exercise; it is a meditative
practice that encourages flexibility of body and mind. Its emphasis
on push-hands encourages us to find the stillness in ourselves even
when surrounded by hustle and bustle. It is all well and good to
practice centeredness on a mountain top, but what happens when you
go to the market place? The dynamic and ever changing patterns of
Chowa-ryu push-hands help to take our meditation to the market place
in a controlled and peaceful way.
Why practise Chowa Ryu?
It's fun, it's a challenge, it offers gentle exercise with real
benefits for health and well being, but above all it offers a chance
for self-discovery and personal growth.
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