Gong fu, the indigenous martial art of China, was exported into American popular culture through numerous "kung fu" movies in the 20th century. Perhaps the most renowned of the martial arts in the U.S., gong fu remains often misunderstood, perhaps because of its esoteric practices that include aspects of Daoism, Confucianism, Buddhism and other syncretic elements. Using the science of embodiment--the study of the interaction between body, mind, cognition, behavior and environment--this book explores the relationships among practitioner, praxis, spirituality, philosophy and the body in gong fu. Drawing on familiar routines, films, artifacts and art, the author connects the reader to ancient Chinese culture, philosophy, myth, shamanism and ritual.

An illustrated introduction to the ancient culture of tea in China and its popularisation around the world.

According to traditional Chinese martial arts custom, instruction in the lethal arts were transmitted under strict secrecy. At the turn of the twentieth century, the martial arts had started to be taught publically with a focus on health. However, many fighting techniques were not shown or taught. As a result, today some systems are more well-known than others. This anthology brings together some of the lesser-known arts in one volume and some aspects of their theory, application, and place historical place in society. The first two chapters by Shannon Phelps give a wonderful presentation of the Fu family Wudang arts—including the unique sixiangquan, a blending of liangyiquan, baguazhang, xingyiquan, and taijiquan under the genius of Fu Zhensong (1872–1953) and family. Dr. Daniel Amos authored the next two chapters reflecting his studies of Southern Praying Mantis. His first-hand experience and scholarly background offered him a special view as an insider into the social aspects involving the practitioners. These include association with criminal associations, spirit possession for fighting application and protection, and the changing relationships within the “gongfu family.” Chapters 5, 6 and 7 cover important concepts and practices of baijiquan an piguzhang as transmitted by Li Suwen (1864–1934) and brought to Taiwan by Liu Yunqiao (1909–1990). The authors stress the importance of fundamental training methods, starting from the static horse stance, to dynamic changing stances while incorporating various techniques performed with explosive issuing energy (fajing). Of particular interest for many will be the sections dealing with big spear (daqiang) training. The final chapter provides a comprehensive overview of tongbei boxing history, styles, and principles, including special highlights of the White Ape system. The authors emphasize the traditional mindset, inner feelings, and overall fighting spirit needed to train the real high-level skills. Training methods and sample applications bring life to tongbei theory. By providing great detail on the styles presented—along with associations with other noted styles and masters—this special anthology is an important reference for any interested in Chinese martial arts. I personally thank the authors for sharing their exceptional work.

Buddha Nature and Animality is about peaceful living. In discussions about the relation between humans and their animal relatives, a central theme is that Buddhism represents the most viable philosophical/religious alternative to the malaise surrounding us when we confront ecological problems. This recognition points to the notion of compassion. The author seeks beyond the limits imposed by discourses of ethics and assumes a more radical approach to seek the roots of the perspectives that allow the conceptual space for the problematic dialogues in the first place. Rather than viewing animals as distinct beings sharing our environs, the author attempts to give the animals soul back to spirituality.

DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: China will lead you straight to the best attractions the country has to offer. This guidebook reveals the magnificence of China's greatest sights, including in-depth coverage of the Forbidden City and terra-cotta soldiers. It provides expert tips for visiting the Great Wall, cruising through the stunning Yangtze Three Gorges, and exploring the ultramodern cities of Shanghai and Hong Kong. Explore China's cultural heritage through richly illustrated features on everything from the Beijing Opera to Confucianism, calligraphy, and the cult of Mao. Discover DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: China. + Detailed itineraries and "don't-miss" destination highlights at a glance. + Illustrated cutaway 3-D drawings of important sights. + Floor plans and guided visitor information for major museums. + Guided walking tours, local drink and dining specialties to try, things to do, and places to eat, drink, and shop by area. + Area maps marked with sights. + Detailed city maps include street finder indexes for easy navigation. + Insights into history and culture to help you understand the stories behind the sights. + Hotel and restaurant listings highlight DK Choice special recommendations. With hundreds of full-color photographs, hand-drawn illustrations, and custom maps that illuminate every page, DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: China truly shows you this country as no one else can.

DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: China reveals the magnificence of China's greatest sights, including in-depth coverage of the Forbidden City and Terracotta Soldiers. The guide provides expert tips for visiting the Great Wall, cruising through the stunning Yangzi Three Gorges, and exploring the ultra-modern cities of Shanghai and Hong Kong. Explore China's cultural heritage through richly illustrated features on everything from the Beijing Opera to Confucianism, calligraphy, and the cult of Mao. DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: China includes 3-D cutaway illustrations, floor plans, and reconstructions of the major architectural sights, plus maps of the key cities and towns. The best places to stay and eat have been provided by resident experts and recommendations on regional specialties will ensure you don't miss China's best dishes. Markets and festivals are listed town by town. With hundreds of full-color photographs, hand-drawn illustrations, and custom maps that brighten every page, DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: China shows you this diverse country as no one else can.

Amongst the Chinese exists great cultural variety and diversity. The Cantonese care more for profit than face and are good businessmen, whereas Fujian R(r)n are frank, blunt and outspoken but daring and generous. Beijing R(r)n are more aristocratic and well-mannered, having stayed in a city ruled by emperors of different dynasties. Shanghai R(r)n are more enterprising, adventurous and materialistic but less aristocratic, having been at the center of pre-war gangsterism. Hainan R(r)n are straightforward, blunt and stubborn. Hunan R(r)n are more warlike and have produced more marshals and generals than any other province. Pioneers of Modern China is a fascinating book that paints a vivid picture of the unique cultural characteristics and behavior of the Chinese in the various provinces. Using leaders in the modern history of China, such as Sun Yat Sen, Chiang Kai Shek, Mao Zedong, Zhou Enlai, Deng Xiaoping, Jiang Zemin, Hu Jintao and Wen Jiabao as representatives, it offers an in-depth look into the psyche of the Chinese people. It also pays tribute to writers, painters and kungfu experts, who have helped to develop the country socially and artistically."

No detailed description available for "Chinatown No More".

Lineage holder Master Zhongxian Wu uses story-telling and a wealth of practical examples to introduce this powerful 24-movement Qigong form, which combines the traditions of ancient shamanism, Confucianism, Daoism, classical Chinese medicine, and the martial arts.