Issue 17 - InJoy Magazine

art & culture • • • •Inspire19by Gerard Jordan SheaDEVELOP STRENGTH OF CHARACTERThousands of years in development,Millions of practitioners worldwide,And hundreds of popular styles to choose from –Martial Arts continue to provide benefits that are as relevant tocontemporary societies today as the ancient cultures from which the arts firstoriginated.Having studied various martial arts since my teens I am aware that thesepractices are not always well understood by those solely informed throughthe film industry and other popular media. This article seeks to expandcommunity perceptions of martial arts and offer a brief introduction to theart of Wu-Chi kung fu.It should be obvious that Martial Arts were first developed to increasethe chance for success in a combat situation. What is also true andfascinating is that many of the elite practitioners throughout history werealso recognised as inspiring community leaders, healers and spirituallydeveloped masters. Whatever the initial reasons for seeking a Martial Artto train, character development is the natural outcome of many years ofsustained practice.Many styles available today offer training regimes that promote fitness,strength and confidence as well as providing techniques useful in a selfdefensesituation yet few schools are founded on traditional principlesneeded to adequately develop strength of character in its members. This isa major reason why some schools breed fighters while others breed skilledpractitioners who serve as purposeful and benevolent members of theircommunities. When choosing a form to practice it is worthwhile to lookbeyond physical moves alone (however impressive they seem to be) andexplore the values underpinning that school and its members.The Wu-Chi School of Arts is a traditional Chinese kung fu, with classessuitable for all ages and abilities. Wu-Chi kung fu offers an extensivecurriculum to support physical, mental and character development in itspractitioners.injoyKnowing others is cleverKnowing self is enlightenmentMastering others requires forceMastering self requires strengthTo the novice student training begins with the physical moves, as wouldbe expected in a kung fu class. The journey then continues far beyondthis initial focus to encourage leadership, authenticity, and communityservice.Other diverse elements of the curriculum include learning to care forthe injured and sick (nutrition, acupuncture and massage), business skills,traditional weapons training, and an extensive teacher training program.Learning something of great value undoubtedly requires effort andcommitment but the insight and growth that results from this work iscumulative, and truly transformational.The Wu-Chi School of Art no.4 has been training in the NorthernRivers region for 10 years and is always welcoming new members.For more information on the school and classes visit: www.wuchi4.com or contact Gavin 0423 539 518 and Gerard 0449 105 678dynamicdrawingexploreexperienceexpressWednesdays @Mullum Drill HallFridays @Byron Scout Hallboth classes9.30 - 12 noon$18www.dynamicdrawing.com.aufor more info call Ron Curran0421101220models wanted