The dragon is a powerful mythical beast that can fly to the skies or dive into the sea at will. You need to have this spirit when doing any dragon technique.
Dragon circle-walking
Circle-walking in the dragon model trains the spirit of the dragon – fearless and able to change in an instant. The dragon is the most martial shape for circle-walking. The arms become as two snakes coiling to become one. There is no need for preparation to strike or defend from this shape. Dragon walking helps develop the ability to change quickly with linking movements. It is always ready to defend or attack.
On the external level, it develops the upper back. If you have a tendency to lean forward, then be sure to dragon walk to straighten the body. It is relatively easy to stay upright while in dragon form, so people having trouble staying upright in bear walking could do more dragon walking.
On the mental level, it helps to liven up a sluggish nature. If your emotions are not great, start out with some dragon walking to unite the emotions and spirit. Be ready to fight when dragon walking – it is more like stalking than walking (though do not overdo that idea).
Beginners should always start with the bear form circle-walking until they feel solid, before doing any dragon circle-walking. At first, only walk 5 minutes in the dragon form. It tends to bring you up into your chest. You can do more as you get better and more comfortable. Do not push it to the point of discomfort. Go back to the bear form when you get tired in the dragon form.
Because the upper back and the nape of the neck are very open and smooth in the dragon model, the qi and blood can easily flow to the head. This is good for curing headache and keeping a clear mind. If you walk in dragon a bit every day the qi and blood flow to the head will help you to stay healthy, and will help older people to keep sharp.
Description:
Sit down facing on the circle line. Place the hands, palms up, in front of your shoulders and a bit higher. Place the inside foot in front. Turn the body to face the centre of the circle without moving the arms relative to the body.
Rotate the arms so that the leading hand cuts towards the centre or further, tuck the elbow in towards the heart, and bring the rear hand to the leading elbow. Push from the lower hand to help twist and settle down into the position. Connect the arms through the upper back. If they are separate they will both be weak. The circle-walking is exactly the same as in the bear form, although it often feels much more difficult. This is because you inadvertently put force into the shoulders and arms. Do not allow the raised arms to pull your attention forward into them – 'use your body to protect your hands, not your hands to protect your body'. Keep set in your body, deep down into the feet. Draw the power out of the arms and concentrate on the feet. Keep centered in the lower back, do not twist the body from the ribcage. Coil within the whole body. Tuck your jaw towards your shoulder to look through or behind your raised hand, depending on how far you are turned.
