[Martial Arts] Me and Master Shih Xingzhe

Author: Jeffi Chao Hui Wu

Time: June 28, 2025, Saturday, 6:03 AM

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[Martial Arts] My Connection with Master Shixing

In 2008, I first met Master Shixing, and from that moment, our fates were intertwined. This master, a direct disciple of the 32nd generation from the Shaolin Temple in Songshan, is not only a master of Shaolin Zen, martial arts, and medicine but also a true practitioner who embodies compassion and insight, cultivating both inner and outer strength. Since that year, we have maintained contact, exchanging ideas and meeting from time to time, with each gathering providing me with invaluable insights.

Our initial meeting took place at a martial arts cultural exchange event in Hong Kong. The master, dressed in simple attire, had a gentle demeanor yet a clear presence; he immediately sensed that my practice was unusual. We quickly delved into deep discussions, covering topics from traditional stance training and internal energy cultivation to my independently realized concept of "structural hip sitting," and even my then-undeveloped idea of "the universe as the dantian." What was astonishing was that the master did not cling to traditional Shaolin views; instead, he listened with great openness and respect as I shared paths I was still exploring myself.

Since 2008, we have met in various cities, including a profound meeting in Shenzhen. Each time we meet, the master responds to my evolving system with admirable humility and steadiness, offering high praise for my martial arts journey.

Master Shixing practices in all aspects of life—standing, sitting, lying down—integrating martial arts, medicine, and Zen. Although I have taken a different path, I have never strayed from empirical evidence and logic. Throughout the years of our exchanges, we have not experienced any barriers due to differing schools; rather, we have repeatedly found deep consensus through dialogue. He has responded positively to my core practice of "leading energy in martial arts" and my experimental training in high-intensity practice in extremely low temperatures, once earnestly stating, "You walk far and steady. One day, you too can reach the realm of a master!" I often share my training insights with him and seek his guidance.

I have never focused on the dantian in my practice; for nearly thirty years, I have almost always slept on my back. This position may have naturally kept my meridians open, without any artificial folding or pressure on the pathways of energy flow. Many people emphasize intention in their practice, while I take the opposite approach, pursuing a free exchange of breath between my body and the universe, allowing energy to flow spontaneously. I adhere to the principle of "slow and gentle energy accumulation," avoiding explosive or stagnant energy, instead resonating in harmony with the natural rhythms. Now, at the seaside in just 6-degree weather, I can stand in a stance for 3 to 5 minutes and break into a uniform sweat without warming up or relying on mental intention. This is empirical evidence of my body's automated functioning, a true manifestation of being connected with the universe and flowing freely without obstruction.

I always remember a phrase he once told me: "Our generation's mission is not to cling to the old but to bridge the gaps between heaven and earth." This statement, like him, is understated yet profound, constantly reminding me not to settle for past achievements but to continue breaking through and validating my practice.

To have the opportunity to connect with Master Shixing and maintain over a decade of continuous exchange and mutual learning is an irreplaceable strength in my martial arts journey.

In 2008, from left: Mr. Jeffi Chao Hui Wu, Honorary Consultant of the Hong Kong Qigong Tai Chi Association; Master Shixing, 32nd generation disciple of Shaolin Temple; Mr. Lin Wenhui, President of the Hong Kong Qigong Tai Chi Association, and his wife.
Master Shixing (right) with Mr. Jeffi Chao Hui Wu (left) in Shenzhen, April 2024.
Mr. Lin Wenhui, President of the International Tai Chi Academy (left), Master Shixing (center), Master Huang Guolong (right).
From left: Master Shixing photographed at Yongfu Temple.

Source: http://www.australianwinner.com/AuWinner/viewtopic.php?t=696547