August 2014

Interview with Grandmaster Niel Willcott, President and Technical Director of Hung Sing Martial Arts, discussing his experience and approach to martial arts, particularly Choy Li Fut Kung Fu and Yang Tai Chi. Key points from the article include his close relationship with his mentor, Grandmaster Doc-Fai Wong. Willcott emphasizes personalised teaching, the use of technology to spread Choy Li Fut globally, and the importance of finding the right master. He believes in the balance between tradition and modernity, preserving authenticity while adapting to modern methods. Overall, the interview showcases his perspective on martial arts, mentorship, tradition, and the role of technology in martial arts education.

Twin Phoenix

Rebirth, Transcendence, and Balance: The Dual Movements of Ascending and Descending Twin Phoenix on the Mountain

In the tapestry of Lohan Yoga—a practice steeped in spiritual symbolism—the pose "Ascending and Descending Twin Phoenix on the Mountain" offers a nuanced exploration of rebirth, transcendence, and balance. Rooted in ancient Asian and Buddhist mythology, particularly the symbolism of the Phoenix, this pose presents an intricate dance of movements that transports practitioners through physical and spiritual realms. Moreover, the pose embodies the concept of defending the mountain—a motif integral to understanding its deeper essence.

Lohan Yoga Flow Movements for Ascending Twin Phoenix on the Mountain:

Below are two movements in the Lohan Yoga flow designed for Ascending and Descending Twin Phoenix on the Mountain. The movements are broken down into steps for easy understanding and practice.

Ascending Twin Phoenix on the Mountain

1. Ascending

Start Position: Stand in a neutral position like Tadasana (Mountain Pose) with hands by your side.

Movement:

Form the shape of a phoenix's head with your hands by pulling all your fingers together; the fingers touch your legs.

With elbows straight, take the hands out to the side with the fingers facing the legs, imagining a silver or white thread being pulled from the legs held by your fingers.

Once your hands are at shoulder level, start to lift yourself up onto the balls of your feet.

As you ascend to the highest point, your hands should have reached above your head with the backs of the wrists touching and the fingertips pointing sideways.

Hold: Hold for as long as you are comfortable.

Return: Follow the movement in its reverse order to return to Tadasana. Repeat if you wish.

2. Descending

Start Position: Stand in a neutral position like Tadasana with hands by your side.

Movement:

Turn both feet out so the toes point out at 45-degree angles.

Form the shape of a phoenix's head with your hands by pulling all your fingers together; the fingers touch your legs.

With elbows straight, take the hands out to the side with the fingers facing the legs, imagining a silver or white thread being pulled from the legs held by your fingers.

Once your hands are at shoulder level, start to slowly lower yourself down into a yogi squat balancing on the balls of your feet. Your hands should have reached above your head with the backs of the wrists touching and the fingertips pointing sideways at the moment you reach your deepest squat position.

Hold: Hold for as long as you are comfortable.

Return: Follow the movement in its reverse order to return to Tadasana. Repeat if you wish.

The Phoenix in Asian Culture and Buddhism

The Phoenix, or 'Feng Huang' in Chinese mythology, stands as a universal symbol of rebirth and renewal. Often appearing as a pair in Asian cultures, the twin Phoenixes embody the balance of yin and yang. In Buddhist traditions, the Phoenix also signifies the endless cycle of life, death, and rebirth. The notion of 'defending the mountain' aligns with this symbolism, implying the vigilant maintenance of spiritual equilibrium while transcending worldly distractions.

Twin Movements, Dual Meanings

Ascending Twin Phoenix: A Soar Towards Enlightenment

The first movement, "Ascending Twin Phoenix," epitomises spiritual rebirth. Beginning in a Tadasana-like position, practitioners transform their hands into Phoenix heads, then ascend through a series of intentional hand and body movements. As the hands rise, practitioners elevate onto their toes, culminating in a full-body extension where the arms are above the head, symbolising the Phoenix's ascent.

In this movement, the upward stretch represents the quest for higher spiritual realms, evoking the Phoenix's rise from ashes to the sky. The act of rising onto the toes symbolises breaking free from earthly ties, embodying the Phoenix's transcendence.

Descending Twin Phoenix: Defending the Mountain

The second movement, "Descending Twin Phoenix," adds a new layer of complexity by incorporating the concept of defending the mountain. After reaching the peak of the ascent, the practitioner descends into a yogi squat, almost like they are guarding or embracing the mountain beneath them. This descent is not a fall; it is an intentional action that signifies the importance of grounding oneself after reaching spiritual heights.

Defending the mountain serves as a metaphor for protecting one’s spiritual gains and wisdom. The downward motion represents the need to bring our spiritual realisations into the practical world, to guard them as a treasure, much like how a Phoenix would defend its mountain territory.

The Balancing Act: Interplay of Ascension and Defence

The "Ascending Twin Phoenix on the Mountain" yoga sequence beautifully embodies the age-old wisdom of balance between the physical and spiritual realms. The two key movements—ascending and descending—not only engage the body but also offer a profound philosophical perspective, echoing the dual nature of the mythical Phoenix and the Buddhist principles of moderation and equilibrium.

In the Ascending movement, there's a natural inclination toward the sky or the "heavens," as if reaching for a higher level of consciousness or enlightenment. The act of lifting oneself onto the balls of the feet while hands ascend above the head adds an ethereal quality, symbolising the aspirational aspects of human existence. You're physically stretching upwards, but you're also metaphorically reaching for higher virtues, values, or states of enlightenment. The silver or white threads imagined in this movement can be thought of as ethereal links to a higher power or state of being, giving the pose a transcendental quality.

Conversely, the Descending movement is an exercise in groundedness. As you squat down, it's as though you're connecting with Earth, acknowledging the need for a sturdy foundation in life. This move embodies the pragmatic aspects of existence: the day-to-day responsibilities, the earthly commitments, and the physical dimensions that keep us rooted. The down-to-earth symbolism of this pose serves as a reminder that while spiritual pursuits are important, our corporeal existence and responsibilities should not be overlooked.

The interplay between these two movements provides a holistic approach to self-development. The ascending and descending motions serve as spiritual metaphors for the journey of life, encapsulating the highs and lows, the dreams and the realities. The Phoenix, in its cyclical rebirth, epitomises the impermanence of states, suggesting that neither spiritual elevation nor earthly responsibilities should outweigh the other. In the same vein, Buddhist teachings emphasise the Middle Path—a life of balance, free from extreme asceticism and indulgence.

In practicing these dual movements, one can achieve a state of balance that honours both the aspirational and the practical, transcending the limitations of viewing life through a single lens. The sequence thus offers a physical means of exploring and embodying these complex, interconnected aspects of human existence.

Embarking on a Spiritual Journey

By practicing these two movements, one not only mimics the Phoenix's mythical cycle of rebirth and ascent but also engages in an act of 'defending the mountain,' or safeguarding one's spiritual essence. Each practice becomes a transformative journey, helping practitioners rise from their metaphorical ashes, transcend limitations, and defend the spiritual wisdom they have accrued.

Conclusion: A Symphony of Movements

The pose "Ascending and Descending Twin Phoenix on the Mountain" serves as a microcosm of life’s complexities, beautifully woven into the fabric of Lohan Yoga. It captures the eternal cycle of rebirth, the aspiration for transcendence, and the need for balance and protection in our spiritual pursuits. Just as the Phoenix rises anew while guarding its sacred territory, practitioners too can rise from the ashes of their past selves while guarding their spiritual wisdom, all through the transformative power of this intricate Lohan Yoga pose.

Guan Yin’ Moon Gazing

Guan Yin's Divine Feminine Moon Gazing: A Deep Dive into Symbolism, Consciousness, and Enlightenment in Lohan Yoga

Introduction

Within the vast and intricate world of Lohan Yoga, the Guan Yin Divine Feminine Moon Gazing pose emerges as not just a physical posture but a monumental embodiment of spiritual depth and symbolic resonance. This enigmatic form serves as a gateway into the labyrinthine realms of human consciousness, providing a unique lens through which one can explore various tenets of ancient Zen and Buddhist traditions. Uniquely blending elements of duality, reflection, and inner realisation, the pose goes beyond the mere mechanics of physical alignment, beckoning practitioners to delve deeply into the complexities of their inner worlds.

Named after Guan Yin, the East Asian Goddess of Compassion, the pose serves as a tribute to the divine feminine—an energy that is nurturing, intuitive, and immeasurably powerful. The act of 'Moon Gazing' incorporated into the pose invites reflection, not just in the literal sense of visualising the moon, but also in the metaphysical sense. It opens a doorway to explore the cycles of change, the passage of time, and the undulating rhythms of the cosmos and human emotion.

Whether you are a seasoned yogi or a beginner stepping onto the mat for the first time, this particular pose offers an experience that is as physically engaging as it is spiritually enriching. By dissecting its underlying symbolism and philosophical roots, practitioners are beckoned to unravel layers of consciousness, self-awareness, and the very essence of the feminine divine, thereby enriching their spiritual journey manifold.

Goddess of Mercy Moon Gazing Pose - Description by Difficulty Levels

Level 1: Bound Angle Variation

How to do it:

Sit on the floor with both legs in front of you.

• Bend one leg and bring the sole of that foot to the inside of the opposite thigh, keeping that leg flat on the ground.

• Your weight should be supported by this leg and the corresponding side of your pelvis.

• Bring the other leg up so that the foot is flat on the ground and the knee is pointing towards the ceiling.

• Place the elbow of the same arm as the vertical leg on that knee.

• Gaze either towards the ceiling or sky as if moon-gazing, or towards your palm as if seeing the reflection of the moon in it.

Level 2: Half-Pigeon Variation

How to do it:

• Begin in a half-pigeon pose with one leg bent forward and the other leg stretched back.

• The back leg should be bent at the knee.

• Place the elbow of the same arm as the bent back leg on that knee.

• Adopt the same moon-gazing posture: gazing either upwards towards the sky or ceiling, or towards your palm.

Level 3: Mermaid Pose Variation

How to do it:

• Start in the Mermaid Pose, which is a side-facing Pada Rajakapotasana.

• Keep the arm positioning the same as the previous levels: elbow of the same arm as the vertical back leg resting on that knee.

• Again, you can either gaze towards the ceiling or sky, as if moon-gazing, or focus on your palm as if seeing the moon’s reflection.

Level 4: Side-Lying Mermaid Pose Variation

How to do it:

• Lay on your side in the Mermaid Pose orientation.

• Maintain the same arm positioning as before, with the elbow of the same arm as the vertical leg resting on that knee.

• Gaze upwards towards the ceiling or sky as if moon-gazing, or towards your palm, envisioning the moon’s reflection.

The Spiritual Foundation: Guan Yin's Reverence in Zen and Buddhism:

1. Guan Yin: The Epitome of Compassion and Understanding: Historically celebrated as Kuan Yin or Avalokiteshvara in different Buddhist scriptures, Guan Yin stands as a towering figure in the realm of spiritual consciousness. This deity personifies the principles of unconditional love, compassion, and mercy, serving as a beacon that guides seekers toward higher levels of emotional and spiritual awareness. Often depicted as a radiant female deity holding a vessel of life-giving water, she mirrors the universe's nurturing, compassionate energy. In the context of the Guan Yin Divine Feminine Moon Gazing pose, practitioners engage not merely in physical alignment but in a form of moving meditation aimed at absorbing and emanating Guan Yin's benevolent essence. This creates a holistic experience, resonating not only with our physical being but also touching the deeper layers of our spiritual selves.

2. The Zen Philosophy and Moon’s Reflection: At the heart of Zen teachings lies the principle of 'seeing into one’s nature,' essentially perceiving things in their purest, untouched form, free from the veils of subjective interpretations and ego-driven perspectives. One common motif that frequently appears in Zen poetry and art is that of the moon's reflection on the surface of a water body. This seemingly simple yet profoundly symbolic imagery serves multiple functions. Firstly, it conveys life's fleeting and illusory nature, symbolised by the moon's ever-shifting reflection. As practitioners assume the Moon Gazing pose and metaphorically 'witness' the water's ever-shifting dance, they are gently reminded of the transient nature of all worldly phenomena. This realisation induces a sense of humility and imparts the importance of discerning the eternal truths from the transient illusions. Secondly, the moon's reflection serves as an invitation to deep introspection, beckoning practitioners to look beyond external appearances to understand the underlying essence of both themselves and the universe.

Unraveling the Reflection of a Reflection: Consciousness Explored:

The concept of a reflection observing another reflection is akin to a form of existential nesting dolls—each layer reveals yet another layer, each more complex and elusive than the last. It’s a notion that echoes the sunlight reflecting on the moon, which then casts its own reflection upon water, enveloping one in a labyrinth of introspective complexity. This multi-layered paradigm of reflection has roots in the groundbreaking ideas of psychological pioneers like Carl Jung, Sigmund Freud, and modern cognitive science. As such, it can be unpacked through various lenses:

1. Psyche's Multi-layered Depth: The sun, often considered the source of all light and life, symbolises our foundational consciousness or the 'Self' in Jungian terms. This is our innermost essence, untouched by societal constructs or personal experiences. The moon, as the sun's reflection, serves as a metaphor for our personal consciousness, which encapsulates our ego, thoughts, emotions, and the sum total of our individual experiences. The moon's reflection on water then signifies another dimension—the unconscious mind, where archetypes, innate instincts, and concealed segments of our psyche reside. This layer is both a part of us and yet separate, a reflection of a reflection that hints at an even deeper pool of subconscious wisdom and universal truths.

2. Inward Quest: The act of witnessing a reflection's reflection in the Guan Yin Divine Feminine Moon Gazing pose serves as a gateway to profound levels of introspection. It is more than a mere passive observation; it is an active, engaged form of questioning and exploring one's multi-dimensional identity. This process nudges practitioners into a journey that starts at the very forefront of the conscious mind. From there, one dives deeper, penetrating the layers of the subconscious, filled with hidden desires, fears, and repressed memories. Ultimately, the aim is to touch that foundational consciousness—the original 'sun' of our being—creating a holistic circle of realisation.

3. Mirror to Enlightenment: In Buddhist and Zen philosophies, the idea of reflection upon reflection aligns with the concept of 'Indra’s Net,' a cosmic web where each jewel reflects all other jewels. In this pose, each 'reflection' you delve into serves as a single point in that infinite net, revealing the interconnectedness of all aspects of consciousness and existence. This makes the quest for self-understanding also a path to understanding the universe, dissolving the barriers between the individual and the cosmic, the microcosm and the macrocosm.

The Path to Inner Enlightenment and Realization:

Inward Quest: Witnessing a reflection's reflection is a subtle, yet potent, prompt for deep introspection. It coaxes practitioners to confront and navigate the manifold facets of their very being. As one practices the Guan Yin Divine Feminine Moon Gazing pose, they embark on a multi-layered voyage that starts with the conscious mind—the tip of the mental iceberg, so to speak. Delving deeper, one enters the cavernous depths of the subconscious, where dreams reside, memories are stored, and emotions are processed. The journey does not end there; rather, it culminates in a daring plunge into the primal consciousness, often referred to as the 'collective unconscious' by Carl Jung. Here, universal symbols, archetypes, and foundational elements of human psychology are encountered. By navigating through these intricate layers, the pose facilitates a holistic inward quest that is both intimate and universal.

The Path to Inner Enlightenment and Realization:

The Guan Yin Divine Feminine Moon Gazing pose, richly imbued with symbology, transcends mere physicality to usher practitioners into realms of heightened awareness and realisation. The dual reflections—the moon reflecting sunlight, and then itself being reflected on water—guide participants on a complex, enlightening odyssey.

Mirrors of the Self: The act of focusing on the moon’s reflection serves as more than just a meditative anchor; it becomes a form of existential inquiry. This concentrated gaze invites practitioners to actively engage in rigorous self-reflection. It encourages them to confront and scrutinise their various identities, desires, fears, and attachments. By peering into this 'mirror,' they stand to gain unprecedented insights into their deepest selves.

Harmonising Duality: The sun and moon, representing two ends of a cosmic duality, manifest this duality in their successive reflections. This symbolism is critical to the pose, accentuating the concept of yin-yang balance—complementary yet opposing energies that exist in all aspects of life. It facilitates a dialogue between contrasting aspects of human existence: the masculine and feminine, the rational and the emotional, the conscious and the unconscious, and the corporeal and the spiritual. By actively engaging with these dualities through the pose, one can achieve a harmonious internal balance that mirrors the equilibrium of the universe.

In practicing the pose, one essentially embarks on a quest that converges the pathways of introspective self-exploration and broader cosmic understanding. This dual pursuit makes the Guan Yin Divine Feminine Moon Gazing pose not just an exercise for the body, but an enriching journey for the soul, intellect, and the intrinsic essence of human existence.

Conclusion:

The Guan Yin Divine Feminine Moon Gazing pose, steeped in its layered complexity, emerges as more than just a series of physical postures. It unfurls into an intricate tapestry of spiritual wisdom, psychological depth, and profound self-awareness. Rooted in the venerable philosophies of Zen and Buddhism, and enriched by modern psychological frameworks, this pose metamorphoses into a dynamic gateway for plunging into the unfathomable depths of consciousness and spirituality. Practicing this pose is akin to navigating a labyrinthine tunnel where the tangible reality gradually dissolves, offering glimpses into the infinite cosmos of the unknown.

In the modern world, where materialism often overshadows metaphysical exploration, the Moon Gazing pose serves as a much-needed sanctuary. It invites practitioners to reconcile the oft-contradictory realms of the known and the unknown, the physical and the metaphysical, and the rational and the emotional. By doing so, it gifts them the rare opportunity to bridge earthly existence with higher realms of being.

Lohan Yoga, through this powerful asana, sheds illuminating light on a pathway not just towards physical wellness, but towards an intensely profound union of the soul, mind, and body. When you commit to this pose, you are essentially committing to a transformative journey that goes beyond mere physicality. You're agreeing to undertake an odyssey replete with revelations and realisations, which spiral outwards from the core of individual being to the intricate web of universal existence.

So when you adopt the serene and seemingly simple posture of the Moon Gazing pose, understand that you are doing far more than merely aligning your body; you are aligning your entire being with the complex geometries of existence. This asana, in its elegant silence, speaks volumes—it narrates the epic saga of human endeavour for enlightenment, the ceaseless quest for self-knowledge, and the eternal dance of cosmic energies.

Therefore, embracing the Guan Yin Divine Feminine Moon Gazing pose is akin to embracing a comprehensive journey—a journey that offers enlightenment, cultivates self-reflection, and nurtures a deeply harmonious relationship with the ever-expansive dance of the universe. It is a journey well worth taking for those who seek not just flexibility of body, but fluidity of spirit and depth of understanding.

The Sleeping Buddha

MASTERING THE SLEEPING BUDDHA POSE: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO PHYSICAL WELL-BEING, EMOTIONAL RESILIENCE, AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH IN LOHAN YOGA

Introduction:

Embark on an insightful journey into the transformative world of Lohan Yoga with the serene and symbolically rich Sleeping Buddha pose. As a gateway to physical well-being, emotional resilience, and spiritual enlightenment, this pose offers an exceptional blend of holistic benefits. Delving into its complexities across beginner, intermediate, and advanced stages, this guide provides a comprehensive look into the Sleeping Buddha pose, ensuring your practice reaches new heights of self-discovery and introspection.

Physical Mastery of the Sleeping Buddha Pose:

The Sleeping Buddha pose, known for its tranquility, offers practitioners different levels of complexity, enabling the pose to be personalised to individual comfort and experience.

1. Beginner: Start by lying on your right side, using your right arm as a cushion for your head and allowing your left arm to rest along your body. This straightforward posture forms the foundation of this pose.

2. Intermediate: Transition to a balanced state by lying on either side, using the same side's arm as a headrest. Balance your body's weight on two contact points with the ground - the supporting arm's elbow and the opposite foot. The free hand rests on the hip, elbow pointing upwards, while the top knee forms a right angle and the lower leg lifts, suspended parallel to the ground behind the supporting leg.

3. Advanced: Add an extra layer of complexity and strength by moving the lower leg in front of the supporting leg, pointing the knee downward and placing the foot in your lap.

Benefits of the Sleeping Buddha Pose:

Physical Well-being: From gentle stretching to deep relaxation, the Sleeping Buddha pose offers an array of physical benefits. These can range from improved balance and strength in the intermediate and advanced variations to deep relaxation in the beginner pose.

Emotional Resilience: As a space for reflection, the pose encourages emotional well-being by promoting self-forgiveness and non-attachment, fostering self-awareness and emotional intelligence.

Spiritual Growth: The pose is a gateway to spiritual enlightenment. By embodying the teachings of the Buddha, practitioners learn to relinquish attachments and be present, promoting a deep understanding of existence and our interconnectedness with the universe.

Enhancing the Sleeping Buddha Pose with Imagination:

The power of imagination can greatly enhance the benefits and depth of the Sleeping Buddha pose, regardless of its complexity. Visualisations, such as serene scenarios or the flow of Qi, can foster deeper relaxation, a clearer mind, and a heightened sense of peace. This mindful approach also promotes a profound connection with one's inner self and the inherent wisdom, compassion, and tranquility within.

Symbolic Interpretation of the Sleeping Buddha Pose:

The pose symbolises two powerful concepts - Yoga Nidra, or conscious deep sleep, and the death of the Buddha, symbolising the ultimate release from earthly suffering. This understanding invites practitioners to delve deeper into a state of relaxation, acceptance, and detachment from worldly distractions, enhancing the spiritual dimension of their practice.

In Conclusion:

The Sleeping Buddha pose serves as a profound tool in Lohan Yoga, providing physical rejuvenation, emotional resilience, and spiritual growth. From its simplest form to its advanced variation, the pose offers a rich exploration of personal well-being and spiritual enlightenment. Embrace the profound symbolism of this serene posture and let it guide you on your journey towards inner peace and wholeness. As you return to your mat, approach the Sleeping Buddha pose with newfound appreciation and understanding, and let it awaken your spirit, lighten your heart, and guide you on your path of self-discovery.

Reawakening Lohan Yoga

Reawakening the Ancient Lohan Yoga: A Journey Through Antiquity, Imagination, and Transformation

The ancient practice of Lohan Yoga, originating from the Shaolin Temple, has been long obscured in history, its authentic essence distorted and diluted over time. In recent years, dedicated practitioners and researchers have taken up the challenge of reviving, restoring, and remastering this lost art. In this article, we embark on a journey through the mythical origins of Lohan Yoga, the challenges faced in preserving its legacy, and the unique characteristics that define this practice. Finally, we explore how imagination and creativity can be harnessed to enhance and evolve Lohan Yoga for future generations.

Antiquity and Myth: The Origins of Lohan Yoga
The origins of Lohan Yoga can be traced back to the time of the Buddha and Bodhidharma, the founder of the Chan (Zen) Buddhist tradition. The practice was an integral part of the spiritual and physical training of monks at the Shaolin Temple.
The 18 Lohan, or Arhats, were the original followers of the Buddha. The Shaolin Temple was established to honour and continue their teachings. Lohan was a core practice at the temple, serving as both a physical and spiritual discipline.
"Lohan" is derived from the Sanskrit word "Arhat," meaning a person who has achieved spiritual enlightenment and liberation from the cycle of birth and death. In the context of Lohan Yoga, it refers to the practitioners who aspire to attain a similar state of spiritual realisation.
Over time, the Shaolin Temple faced numerous challenges, including political upheavals and destruction. As a result, the knowledge and practice of Lohan were fragmented and hidden, with many aspects being lost or distorted.

Living Memory: The Last Keepers of Lohan
As the practice of Lohan was threatened by external forces, it was passed down through families who sought the prestige, wealth, and social status associated with being Kung Fu masters. However, the focus on martial arts often overshadowed the yoga aspect.
In 19th-century China, social conventions dictated that high-status individuals avoid laborious activities, wear delicate clothing, and maintain certain appearances. These conventions hindered the preservation and practice of Lohan Yoga.
Some masters taught select students behind closed doors, away from the social restrictions. However, these students rarely learned the full extent of the yoga system, as their primary focus was on martial arts advancement.

The Keeper's Legacy: Niel’s Obligation
The journey to revive Lohan Yoga involves adapting it to the modern and postmodern social context while respecting its ancient etiquette, traditions, and rituals. This includes promoting virtues like compassion and maintaining the integrity of the practice.
To preserve Lohan Yoga, it must be made accessible to future students and communities while learning from past mistakes. The practice must evolve to meet the needs and interests of practitioners across generations.

Characteristics of Lohan Yoga and Its Practice
Lohan Yoga emphasises a continuous flow through various poses, with a focus on stances, squats, and sequences symbolising an allegorical journey toward enlightenment. Unique meditation practices, such as wall gazing, complement the physical aspects of the practice.

Once practitioners master the basic and intermediate patterns of movement, they are encouraged to adapt and personalise their practice, creating a unique version that evolves over their lifetime. As they age, they may shift from complex balances to a slower, more meditative sequence.
Lohan Yoga includes many poses that are well-known in mainstream yoga but often have different names. For example, the crow pose is called "Golden Phoenix Looks at the Sun," while "Guan Yin Sits on the Lotus Flower" resembles the toe stand padangusthasana with hands in prayer.

Some poses in Lohan Yoga are not found in traditional Indian yoga. One such pose is "The Sleeping Buddha," an advanced balance using one elbow and one foot that symbolises the Buddha's last moments and his mindful compassion toward the person responsible.

Levels of Imagination in Lohan Yoga Practice
The advanced practice in Lohan Yoga focuses on creativity and imagination rather than complex poses. Here, we outline various aspects of imagination that yoga practitioners can incorporate into their practice, regardless of style:

1. Sensory imagination can be used to create vivid mental images of yoga postures, breath flow, and alignment, enhancing the mind-body connection during practice. It can also create serene, calming mental environments during meditation or relaxation.

2. Reproductive imagination involves recalling past experiences and lessons learned during yoga practice. It can include mentally replaying previous classes, sensations, emotions, and insights, as well as drawing upon yoga philosophy and applying it to one's practice.

3. Creative imagination explores new variations, modifications, and sequences of yoga poses, incorporating unconventional approaches to practice. This can involve adapting and personalising the practice to individual needs, interests, and intentions, as well as generating innovative ideas for integrating yoga into daily life.

4. Transformative imagination envisions the potential transformation and growth that can arise from yoga practice. This can involve exploring how yoga contributes to personal development, self-awareness, and positive change in various aspects of life, as well as how it can benefit the broader community and the world.

5. Transcendent imagination delves into the deeper spiritual aspects of yoga, going beyond the physical and mental aspects. This can involve contemplating abstract and metaphysical concepts associated with yoga, such as the nature of consciousness, interconnectedness of all beings, and realisation of the self beyond the ego. It can also cultivate awe and reverence for the universe, deepening the spiritual dimension of the practice.

Conclusion
The revival of Lohan Yoga offers an opportunity to rediscover and preserve an ancient practice with deep spiritual roots. By understanding its history, adapting it to modern contexts, and harnessing the power of imagination, practitioners can not only be a part of reviving Lohan Yoga but also enrich and evolve their personal yoga practice. As the legacy of Lohan Yoga is passed on to future generations, it continues to inspire and transform the lives of those who embrace its teachings.

Niel Willcott Interview

During the weekend of April 5th and 6th, Tai Sifu Niel Willcott, President and Technical Director of Hung Sing Martial Arts and one of the most prominent figures in Europe within Choy Li Fut Kung Fu and Yang Tai Chi, was once again in Spain, conducting various seminars on both disciplines in Zaragoza. These seminars were organised by Sifu Jaime Nieto, his representative and head of Hung Sing Martial Arts in Spain.

Over the course of two intense days, Tai Sifu Niel Willcott demonstrated his mastery of Choy Li Fut and Yang Tai Chi, showcasing his excellent teaching skills. He conducted engaging seminars on basic saber training, pushing hands, and combat techniques of Choy Li Fut. During a brief break from the seminars, we sat down to chat with him, resulting in this interview that provides insight into one of the most important figures in Europe in the realms of Choy Li Fut and Yang-style Tai Chi.

Q: You have the privilege of being a closed-door student of Grandmaster Doc-Fai Wong, one of the highest-ranking Masters in the world for both Choy Li Fut and Yang Tai Chi, with a standing invitation to learn directly from him at his home. What does this mean to you, both personally and martially?

A: As a martial artist, finding the right Master is one of the most challenging aspects. The connection between Master and student is crucial. To reach advanced levels, you need to convince someone to share their knowledge and information with you. This shouldn't necessarily be a commercial transaction, but often it is. My relationship with Grandmaster Wong is different. He is dedicated to teaching me, and I am sincere in my desire to learn from him. There will always be differences of opinion between Master and student, but we both aspire to pass down the art to future generations. This is what unites us. The bond I share with my Master is a privilege, and I'm deeply grateful for it. Few people have had this opportunity.

Q: Grandmaster Doc-Fai Wong conferred upon you the title of Tai Sifu. Only four people in the world hold this honor. An instructor can only achieve it by mentoring two of their students to attain senior levels within the Plum Blossom International Federation. Can you briefly describe the training system in your School?

A: It's essential for me to be there to teach. I try to teach as many classes to my students as I can, regardless of their level. We have many instructors, and having assistance is essential for the school's growth. But I've seen school owners stop teaching because others could do the work. In my school, I strive to be a strong reference point for my students, as they all need to build a solid martial foundation through self-training. I look for moments to be available for each student, correcting and guiding them in the best way for their progress. I encourage this attitude in all instructors and assistants in the Hung Sing schools. This is for the preservation and promotion of the Arts.

Q: You've embarked on an ambitious project to spread Choy Li Fut worldwide, expanding your School to multiple countries across all continents using modern information technologies. This has allowed Choy Li Fut to reach unexpected places. What do you think is the future of martial arts practice and instruction?

A: I'm very open to new technologies and excited about the future of martial arts. People need to change how they view martial arts. Often, styles try to preserve their Kungfu as if they were ancient museum pieces. Kungfu isn't a frozen moment in time; it's alive and needs to grow. That approach seems strange to me. I have no intention or desire to dress like a Chinese gentleman from the 19th century or shave my head and wear a monk's robe. I'm not Chinese, nor am I a monk. However, something is lost if we don't embrace the culture and traditions inherent in Kungfu. The other route is to modernize the style: change the language, wear modern training attire, stop working with weapons, and cease practicing forms. This results in a simple and effective style that's no longer authentic, becoming mixed martial arts under a different name. I believe that social media is the best way to preserve and develop Kungfu. We must use modern tools to our advantage without compromising the authenticity of our styles. Imagine looking back 1,000 years to the Shaolin Temple, observing the monks practice and fight. This would enlighten many Kungfu practitioners. While not entirely possible, ancient manuscripts and texts provide an insight. Embracing modern technology is necessary to preserve Kungfu for future generations.

Q: In addition to Choy Li Fut, you've extensively studied other martial arts such as Judo, Karate, Tae Kwon Do, and Jiu Jitsu. How has this experience with other martial arts influenced your understanding of Choy Li Fut?

A: I believe the first thing a new martial arts student should do is explore. It's challenging to have a perspective on martial arts without exposure. Caution is necessary. Each style has its own selling strategy. Many schools will try to turn you into a customer. If you see yourself as a customer, how can you become a martial artist? I've tried many styles and learned different ways of doing the same thing. But the journey is about finding the right Master more than anything else. My Master's knowledge and philosophy, his dedication, and attention to detail are what attracted me. Due to this, I've learned a lot from him. I can see the beauty and power of the style I now teach and convey that level of detail to my students. Finding the right Master is paramount. I have a Master who sees students as the future of the style, not just customers.

Q: Your virtual martial arts school features over 400 instructional videos, providing an excellent reference for anyone to learn Choy Li Fut and Taichi Chuan at any time. But some say it's impossible to learn martial arts from a video. What is your response to this?

A: Is it possible to learn to play the piano from a video? Yes, but you need a piano to practice. All you need is a training partner. If you're learning a traditional form, you can do it well with a video; sometimes even better. I had a student who was away from me for six months. Six months later, using only the videos from the virtual school, he surpassed his classmates. He worked with the videos for four hours daily and trained hard on the basics. His classmates, on the other hand, only attended classes once a week. Videos also provide an opportunity to learn the art for those who can't attend classes. This is a positive thing. Learning from a video is better than not learning at all.

Q: You've collaborated with Grandmaster Doc-Fai Wong to recover lost Choy Li Fut forms using manuscripts, while also giving your organisation a modern and dynamic image. What does tradition mean to you in the martial arts world today?

A: A system is deemed traditional when its combat techniques, training system, and tactics are passed down from Master to student over generations. Like Choy Li Fut. Tradition is the legacy, what's passed down. And tradition needs to be a living thing. A system must evolve and adapt. Of course, that doesn't mean abandoning the past. Respect for our history and both past and current Masters must always be present; without them, Choy Li Fut wouldn't exist. It's also essential to uphold a certain ethic and code of conduct within and outside of the Kwoon