Hsing-I: Chinese Mind-Body Boxing

by Robert W. Smith

Harmoniously merging the mind and the body, Hsing-I Ch'uan is simultaneously one of the most simple and most complex of the Chinese martial arts. The five forms, based on the Chinese concept of the five elements, provide a toolbox of techniques that the skillful Hsing-I practitioner uses to box with himself, channeling ch'i into spirit and spirit into mindful stillness. From this synthesis of external and internal forces springs new energy and true ability.

Engagingly written and amply illustrated with black and white photographs, Robert W. Smith's primer includes the history and meaning of Hsing-I, detailed instruction in the five forms and twelve animal styles, and cogent advice from the masters. First published almost 30 years ago, Chinese Mind-Body Boxing was among the first books on Hsing-I and remains one of the best.

Genres: Martial Arts

112 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 1990

About the author

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Reviews

[G. Michael Reynolds · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although the form of Xingyiquan practiced in this book is more like a cousin to the style I practice, there is still a lot of useful information in it, chief among that being a wonderful chapter of explanations from some of the most famous masters of the last two hundred years, including Guo Yun Shen and Sun Lu Tang. I wouldn't recommend it as a manual because, quite frankly, learning XYQ that way is impossible, but rather as a useful guide to those who have a proper teacher and are looking to understand the deeper concepts.

[Peb · Rating 4 out of 5]

di bagian akhir buku ini ada rangkuman nasihat dari praktisi hsing-i dalam silsilah pewarisan (hepei dan honan school) termasuk dari sang legenda Sun Lu T'ang. prinsip setiap bentuk dasar juga cukup dijelaskan.

[Darin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a short book. It contains some history and forms in step-by-step photos.