Sun Lutang Reveals the Truth of Taiji

The Boundless Path of Skill

Even if my skills are already excellent, there will always be someone superior in the world. When facing those more advanced than myself, I should treat them as teachers, learning their strengths to compensate for my weaknesses. Only in this way can my skills continuously improve. This is not self-deprecation but a means to pass on knowledge and elevate the martial arts. Even if one day my skills reach the pinnacle and stand unparalleled, I must never become complacent. For skill knows no limits, and knowledge is as vast as the ocean—how can one afford to stagnate?

Gentleness and Stillness Come First

When first learning a skill, one must calm the mind to truly grasp it. If brute force is recklessly applied, the essence will remain elusive. The mind should be as gentle as a willow, the intent as natural as flowing water, and the limbs light and coordinated. Only then can one seize the moment to strike with lightning speed. Even an ounce of force can deflect a thousand pounds.

The Fullness of Spirit and Energy

Some say masters are like "having three heads and six arms," but the true key lies in mental focus. If the mind is scattered, moving one hand renders the others useless, and no amount of technique will suffice. Only when spirit and energy fill the entire body, merging seamlessly, can one remain unbreakable in defense and unstoppable in attack. This is the power of concentrated spirit and energy.

Unbroken Flow

Energy divides into yin and yang: movement is yang, stillness is yin. Internal martial arts emphasize the use of energy, yet energy is formless and traceless, residing within the body. If energy cultivation is improper, the balance is lost. In stillness, the heart and energy must be as calm as still water; in motion, if the mind is restless, the foundation crumbles. Thus, predecessors teach that nurturing the heart and stabilizing energy come first—remaining unshaken in adversity. Only then can vitality flourish, allowing composure in both action and stillness, embodying true mastery.

Unity of Body and Spirit

To reach for an object before you, the mind moves first, and the hand follows. This is the process of intent guiding energy, and energy generating force. Force and energy are inherently one; only by directing energy with intent can one act freely. If force precedes energy, it is a reversal of order, bringing endless harm. Therefore, in daily practice, discard brute force and cultivate energy until it flows smoothly. Then, in confrontation, the body’s strength can be summoned naturally.

The Mind of No-Self

No matter how the enemy attacks or intimidates, my mind remains like still water, as if devoid of competitive desire. With a righteous and luminous heart, calm energy, and a tranquil spirit, victory is assured. The so-called "immovable mind" means standing unshaken even if Mount Tai collapses before you, or a deer leaps by your side without a glance. A steady mind fills the body with true energy, rendering blades invisible and gunfire fearless. Only with this mindset can one apply skills with ease.

Courage Begets Strength

Martial arts prioritize courage. Without it, there is no will to overcome the enemy; fear takes hold, movements falter, and the opponent gains the upper hand. With ample courage, the odds of victory rise. Thus, one must diligently train bravery—such as facing blades to cultivate fearlessness or sleeping alone in the mountains to temper the will. The state achieved through such practice is beyond ordinary comprehension.

Calmness and Emptiness

Impatience guarantees defeat. If the mind remains unmoved, one can calmly await the enemy’s attack; if restless, not only is victory unlikely, but self-collapse becomes a risk. The body must be agile, the mind serene. Cultivating this balance allows one to defend against weapons with bare hands, subduing the enemy through composure—this is the power of calmness.

Nurturing Spiritual Awareness

The sharpness of eyes and ears stems from the mind’s agility. In daily life, observe all directions to guard against surprise attacks; in combat, anticipate the enemy’s intent through their gaze and movements. Only with keen spiritual awareness can one foresee opportunities and subdue the enemy before they act.

The Application of Intimidation

Vocalization can consolidate energy and strength, but it must originate from the dantian and synchronize with movement to boost one’s courage and weaken the enemy’s resolve. Random shouts harm dignity, leaving only an impression of empty bravado. Thus, it is better to maintain a calm and focused mind, using substance to overcome emptiness.

The Ruthless Mind

Show no mercy in combat, for hesitation leads to failure. After defeating an enemy, never allow them a chance to recover—monitor their movements closely to prevent counterattacks. If trapped in danger, remain composed, finding an opening to turn the tide in an instant.

The Value of Practical Experience

Combat practice is the cornerstone of martial arts. Do not shy away due to lack of skill; hone techniques and grasp principles through sparring. Fear guarantees defeat before the fight begins. Even the highly skilled may falter if fear arises in battle. Therefore, in practice, neither underestimate nor fear the opponent. Engage boldly, adapt flexibly, and confidence will follow.

The Vice of Martial Artists

Arrogance, born of physical strength or skill, stifles progress. Martial arts are not about brute force; untempered courage is merely crude material. Only through humble learning can one grasp the true essence.

Emphasize Sparring

Engage with diverse opponents to accumulate experience. Refusing to train with newcomers halts progress. Do not dismiss the weak; teach juniors with patience. Observe others’ matches, adopting strengths and avoiding weaknesses—like a chess player who learns without moving a piece. In bouts, maintain courtesy; after defeat, forsake vengeance and focus on cultivation. Only then can one return victorious.

The Art of Assessing the Enemy

Enemies divide into yin and yang: outwardly weak may be formidable, outwardly strong may be manageable. Internal martial arts use stillness to counter motion, unpredictable in their changes. In combat, observe the enemy’s complexion: a flushed face reveals agitation, a lost advantage; a pale face betrays fear and stiffness. Thus, a steady mind and bold spirit ensure victory.

Strength of Heart and Soul

Heart and soul are the foundation of spirit. The strong exude overwhelming presence; the weak falter before battle. Yet, courage requires a robust physique—without it, the soul’s power is in vain. Therefore, train both body and energy, regulate breathing, and fortify the mind. Only then can one become a true martial artist.

Wisdom Over Brawn

Strength has limits; skill may fail, but wisdom conquers armies. To defeat the enemy, rely not on fists alone but on adaptability.

Breaking and Gathering Momentum

Internal martial arts do not strike first but wait for the enemy to expose an opening, then exploit it. If no weakness appears, feint to lure one out. Mastery lies in seamless transitions, sustained force—this requires diligent practice in gathering momentum.

The Subtlety of Subduing the Enemy

The method lies in the enemy, not oneself. Against the weak, strike directly; against the strong, target vital points; against the united, redirect their force. Adapt like a skilled doctor diagnosing an illness—clean, precise techniques reveal true skill.

Returning to the Root of Energy Cultivation

True strength lies not in form but in energy. Internal masters appear soft outwardly but harbor immense power within. The ordinary see form; the wise perceive energy. Cultivating energy is the foundation—this is the true path of martial arts.