I just don't get it - Five Elements

[Bamboo]

I've been puzzling over the 5 elements recently, trying to fit different techniques (punches) into differrent categories...didn't get too far

The most confusing for me is the Earth element. Apart from the photos on pages 118 & 130 of the Wing Lam book, can anyone give examples?

How about for 2nd most confusing - the Wood element

Thanks.

[PM]

hello Bamboo, have you learned sap ying kyun? the so called elements are pretty good organised there. imho Wing Lam sifu'ss book did a good job describing the elements as well.

that reminds me that i have an article about sap ying kyun in my drawer, i want to offer it to Kung Fu Tai Chi Magazine... we will see.

please specify your question, and i will try to do my best

[Bamboo]

[Daifong]

In the first place, Wing Lam's book is offering the reader a basic overview, not to be construed as actual instruction. Second, the reason you are puzzling over what "Hung Ga Five Elements" are about, is that, at beginning/ indeterminate level, students shouldn't be concerned about such things.

With qualified instruction and practice, everything becomes clear in it's own good time. If you are curious, it's a good and healthy sign, because it means that you'll have something to look forward to.

However, in order to answer your question, you will have to look at what point, or points the Ng Hang (Five Element) concepts were introduced to the main syllabus of Hung Ga Kyun, what their original derivation, and what their intended significance. As for the Ng Ying Ng Hang Sap Ying Kyun (Five Animal, Five Element, Ten Forms Set), it is a (relatively) recent compilation.

For a much simpler explanation, I can sum it up for you in just one word: "syncretism".

Ok?

[JPC]

[Bamboo]