Monday

Fighting spirit

Baguazhang is not about fighting. 
Fighting is a conflictive process, involving mutual hostility and violence. Fighting is a reciprocal endeavour and both parties are liable to suffer injuries.

Instead of fighting/struggling with an opponent, the baguazhang exponent seeks to evade conflict.
If they have to defend themselves, they do so with restraint.
The aim is to  incapacitate the attacker and walk away.

In order to incapacitate the attacker, a student needs to cultivate their 'fighting spirit' - their  willingness to engage in combat.
This is not so easy.
Fear stands in the way. Insincerity and image stand in the way. Misconceptions and opinions stand in the way.
Calm mind and  composure must be trained alongside body usage and combat strategy.

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