Neijia

Neijia is a term in Chinese martial arts, contrasting with waijia (external skill) that is historically associated with the Shaolin Monastery. The Chinese characters for "neijia" can be translated as "internal family". Neijia forms are characterized by their focus on the cultivation of qi and the practice of qigong, leading to the development of internal power.

History

The term neijia and the distinction between internal and external martial arts first appears in Huang Zongxi's 1669 Epitaph for Wang Zhengnan. Sun Lutang later classified the "Three Harmonies" body of Xing Yi Quan, Bagua Zhang and Tai Chi Chuan as the major types of neijia arts.

Characteristics

Neijia training involves the cultivation of one's qi and the development of internal power. This is achieved through the practice of various forms and exercises, as well as through a focus on the Chinese concept of the "Three Treasures" of Jing, Qi and Shen.

Major Types

The major types of neijia arts, as classified by Sun Lutang, are:

• Xing Yi Quan: A martial art based on the movements and characteristics of various animals.
• Bagua Zhang: A martial art that involves circular movement and the use of the palm instead of the fist.
• Tai Chi Chuan: A martial art known for its slow, flowing movements.

See Also

• Chinese martial arts
• Qi
• Qigong
• Waijia

References

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