THIRTEEN
This is a partially moving form that utilizes half-moon stepping. Elegant and intensely magnetic, it beckons the void that is behind the universal chi.
Binding Roots brings the cosmos into the temple of the body, whereby engaging with it one learns about the self through observing and experiencing the micro-macro interaction of the Tao expressing its mystery in every moment. The crowning jewel of the dynamic energy cultivation practices of the system, this form is a unique manifestation of the internal art of Lo Ban Pai.
Opening the Channels
This practice generates warmth and opens up the four major channels that run in unison through the arms and legs. As the stances apply pressure to the bones they become elastic and vibrant, yet as strong as flexible steel, creating power within the ligaments and tendons like tensile wire.
Martial Applications
Binding Roots will transfer all other forms from the Lo Ban Pai system into a moveable small space, creating explosive power that will build confidence and nurture the internal willpower through absorption of universal chi. It becomes a catalyst to translate all other intermediate sets into dynamic action.
It is a close-quarter, short-range system, whereby the stripping and locking capacity binds and gathers energy, then releases it as lightning force in a combat situation.
While the form reveals its beauty through the coiling movements, when applied they are highly effective as a self-defense mechanism, if necessary.
When undertaking this program the student will also learn many of the principles and techniques of Shadow Fist Kung Fu.
Temple Bagua
Temple Bagua is incorporated in the Binding Roots program. This potent circular walking technique moves in intricate spirals that mimic the motions of celestial bodies within our universe. These movements integrate all knowledge learned in the introductory and intermediate programs. The training of the preceding forms cultivates hidden treasures. Once the initiate reaches this level, Lujan provides the keys to unlock these skills.
Temple Bagua is a unique expression of Lo Ban Pai and one of the crown jewels of the esoteric system that Lujan teaches. This Oriental shamanic movement set familiarizes the practitioner with the fundamentals of harnessing the power of focused chi before moving onto the refined expressions of this enigmatic universal force contained within its sister form, Plum Blossom.
Yin Energy Cultivation
The circular walking of Lo Ban Pai concentrates on the central force of the warrior, rather than an external central polestar focus, as is taught in many Bagua schools.
Similar techniques survive in various forms in Bon and some branches of Taoism and are best known in the West as the walking pattern for the martial art of Baguazhang. Lo Ban Pai’s Temple Bagua is however fundamentally different from other expressions of the art.
This particular method enables the chi generated to be absorbed within the center of the warrior as they rotate. Additionally, by coiling partially inwardly and to the rear of the hip, the practitioner is familiarized with the essential energy that rises from the ground from this perspective. At this location there is a very powerful electromagnetic vortex, which is traditionally called ‘witches broom’. The reason for this is that when the warrior contacts this area it has the shape of a dovetail, cascading from the back of the hips to the floor.
Pushing Hands
At the level of Binding Roots Lujan will teach a complex set of pushing hands that allows the vital chi to be released and re-circulated harmoniously, which in turn generates more power.
Telekinetic Skills
When Binding Roots is integrated with Temple Bagua it enhances connection with electric fibers that are subtly attached to the luminous cocoon, yielding the development of the phenomenon called Ling Kong Jing, which means ‘empty force’. In other martial systems this technique is practiced with the primary focus on the empty force becoming controllable so as to be willfully applied.
In contrast, in Lo Ban Pai the mind is not employed, so this skill manifests as an energetic byproduct that is not connected to the desire of the practitioner. The student learns to focus this potency without desire so that it becomes an appropriate energetic response to circumstances. This practice delivers the initiate to an elusive state of awareness: a pure connection to spirit.
Unique Expression of Circle Walking
Circle walking mirrors the essential transit of planetary systems as a metaphor, typically with reference to a central point, or sun. Binding Roots turns this in on itself to bring the cosmos inside one’s inner temple. By embodying these principles in motion, the initiate learns about the self through observing and experiencing the micro-macro interaction of the Tao expressing its mystery.
This interactive inner-alchemy represents an important paradigm shift in the way the body supports spiritual development. The net result of the spiraling practice of Lo Ban Pai creates dragon gates, which provides a direct, experiential link with eternity.
Level 1: 5 Days
Level 2: 5 Days
Complete Program: 10 Days