learning from the shaolin monks
The Shaolin Monks, otherwise called the “fighting” monks, are some of the most impressive martial artists, living in China. Their daily practice include many hours of training in Kung fu, Tai chi, and Qi gong. Many students will travel from all over the world for the chance to train and learn from these powerful and disciplined masters.
There are many stories regarding the selection for those accepted in the Shaolin Temple. According to tradition, those who wished to enter must first pass a test that would prove their willingness to take risks and overcome obstacles. One test involved being kept outside the walls of the temple, in horrible weather; those who survived were further tested. Only a handful would remain to recieve their training.
What the Shaolin Monks know is that each obstacle that does not crush you, only furthers your resolve. And any student who is unable to accept any pain in training, cannot progress.
This reminded me of something Baron Baptiste once said during a very long, and very hard yoga practice. We were about 90 minutes into our practice – sweat dripping into my eyes – my muscles literally shaking – I was counting the minutes. Baron looks at us and says, “Now is when your practice of yoga BEGINS.”
You see, true practice of anything only begins when we are weary and weakened. It is in those moments when we find ourselves trembling with doubt, tender and bruised from falling, that we develop within ourselves new strength, courage, and skill.
There is no need for courage – unless there is fear.
There is no call for strength – until we are weakened.
Do not call yourself faithful – unless you have doubted.
You do not grow when you are comfortable – learning requires risk.
After losing a senate race, Abraham Lincoln said, “The path was worn and slippery. My foot slipped out from under me, knocking the other out of the way, but I recovered and said to myself, ‘It’s a slip and not a fall.’”
Remember, falling isn’t failure.
Its only failure is if you stop getting back up.
Filed under: health and fitness, inspiration, life, monthly musings, power yoga, reflection, yoga, yoga alexandria, yoga arlington | 2 Comments
That’s really awesome advice. I appreciate it and live by it, despite having my fair share of failures.
My knowledge of Shaolin monks is so rudimentary that saying this will probably make you laugh, but I first heard of them through the Wu-Tang Clan. I began learning more and more about meditation and zen philosophy.
I’m not terribly disciplined in health and fitness, but for anyone interested in zen, I think it’s worth looking into. And meditation is always great.
purpoweryoga – Have you ever read anything by Brad Warner (HARDCORE ZEN, for example)? I recommend it wholeheartedly.
Thank you D.Peace.
Hardcore Zen is exactly that – hard core! Funny – thanks.