Shaolin Rou Quan is a traditional Qi Gong form or we call it an 'internal' (nei gong) form in Shaolin. As with all Shaolin internal qi gong forms, it is practiced to strengthen our Qi, our internal organs and to enhance our health and vitality.

Rou Quan originates in the teachings of Tai Chi Quan and many similarities can be seen between Rou Quan and Tai Chi Quan, but they are still considered individual systems and both have characteristic that can’t be found in the other

What is unique about the art of Soft Fist (Rou Quan), when practiced at a higher level, it can also be used for self defence, so the health and martial aspects are combined in this internal qi gong form.

In the olden days, the soft fist are generally taught to senior monks as its fluid, soothing and soft motions are considered excellent for older martial artist wishing to retain their skill.

Rou quan uses traditional techniques, combining the soft (Supple and Flexible) and fluid movements with elements of explosive power. It uses the Chinese kung fu principle of softness within hardness and hardness within softness.

This combination of internal and external techniques gives the form its dynamic character. The contrast of movements can help to balance the Yin and Yang energies in our body and mind.

Water & Fire

The dynamic movements of this form are used to impact and increase the internal Qi in our body.

The soft and fluid movements represent the Water Element (Yin), whilst the explosive aspects in the form represent the Fire Element (Yang). The water element is the dominating element in this form, training our body and mind to connect with the flowing qualities of water, through its soft movements.

It is only possible to train our softness when there is some kind of structure providing a frame. The fire element relates to the strength aspect, when training this form, providing the frame in which the water element can be practiced.

So, when there is a dominating force, there always has to be some level of the opposing force present, to keep the balance. Here the fire element in its explosive power provides the opposing force to balance the softness. The way the two forces, of internal and external techniques, are interlinked in this form gives Rou Quan its unique character.

External & Internal

Whilst the External Training aspect, is required and provides a frame – the main focus in this form is directed towards the Internal Processes and the flow of energy through-out the body during the practice of Rou Quan. Finding a sense of calmness, focus and presence. Letting the thinking mind relax, letting yourself flow with the movements and allowing yourself to arrive in the moment.

On Your Learning Journey

Putting this form into the context of your own learning journey:

Other Qi Gong forms such as Ba Duan Jin (Eight Brocades) , Yi Jin Jing (Muscle & Tendon Chnage Classic) or Wu Qin Xi (Five Animal Qi Gong) are fairly static, whilst this form is more dynamic and follows on from Louhan Shi Ba Shou (Arhat 18 Hands).

Louhan Shi Ba Shou (Arhat 18 Hands) vs Rou Quan (Soft Fist):

Whilst Louhan Shi Ba Shou uses a smaller range of motion and focuses to continuously move the internal Qi through the form – Rou Quan requires a bigger range of movements and is more dynamic in nature, making this a more advanced form. So, some knowledge and experience with Qi Gong (or other martial arts) is beneficial (though not essential) to learn this form.

Learning and practicing Rou Quan will support and help improve your Qi Gong as well as your Kung Fu practice, due to the way it compliments internal and external training. The continuous practice of this form will allow you to enter into a state of flow, free from constrains of mind and constrains of body, becoming one with yourself, your breath and your movement. Hence you can benefit from the practice of this form throughout a lifetime.