Beginning Level for Teens and Adults
(Classes for younger ages available on request)

Held outside rain or shine (under cover when raining) .

Call Barkley for details: 541-324-9151

As this class is held outside, Barkley recommends dressing warmly in layers. Include a hat and gloves.

Description:

The Sword based martial arts and qigong program is a complete system of mind body development that integrates Western and Asian sword play, breathing exercises and ki based philosophy. Since human beings learn most effectively through play, we take a non-competitive approach based on the natural instinctive movement of our hunter gatherer ancestors. Our sympathetic and para-sympathetic nervous systems retain these memories in a dormant form throughout our lives. In modern times they are often expressed in fencing, archery, javelin and
sports martial arts. Nature based training is often a much healthier approach when an outdoor environment is available. When taught correctly defensive skills should build confidence and reduce bullying.

Our program is based on the principles of the Six Harmonies which is considered to be the highest level of ancient internal martial arts in East Asia. Natural movement and footwork, based on a wide variety of animals that fly, leap, climb, and pounce enable the child or adult to experience mind body unification, and strength and balance improvement rapidly and effectively.

Simplicity, natural movement of the whole body, and consciousness integration represent some of the key principles which go beyond the complicated over stylized techniques and rigid approach of many traditional styles of martial arts. The formless essence of this unique character building approach could be described as atavistic ki based training. The level of the individuals development is ultimately determined by the level of ki development and meditation which is always associated with virtuoso abilities with the sword in East Asian bladed traditions.

The ancient philosophical goal of these exercises and practices is to eventually activate dormant powers of intuition, and link the electrical energy system of the body with the energy field of nature. This is poetically described as rendering sky, earth and body as one being in many ancient philosophical writings. Moving meditation is the basis of these unique arts which emphasize self individuation, respect and benevolence in their original form.

Classes are specifically designed around the unique abilities and characteristics of the individual. Certain animals may fit the body type and character of one person better then another. A highly developed balance of yin and yang principles is historically considered necessary in all creative fields of endeavor. Sword movement, empty handed defense, and qigong methods are fully integrated in a unique way that combines Asian and Western blade work with modern contemplative neuroscience. In other words ancient systems of ki development are used for creative development, self esteem, confidence and personal growth.

Children and young adults often love sword and sorcery narratives because they are the stuff that myths and legends are made of. Kids will be able to make their own training swords and spears and learn how to practice safely with adult supervision. Our goal is to use the martial arts philosophy and skills of many countries to expand the imagination of the child while building character and creativity. They will be encouraged to use their skills in theatrical productions that they have developed themselves. Strength, balance and coordination will be improved in a healthy outdoor environment. Ultimately each child will be able to create their own unique style based on their favorite animals and training weapons. Since almost all animals learn naturally by play fighting we will encourage the same in a safe and gentle way that is fun and easy for all. The best results always come from consistent and enjoyable practice. It is hoped that learning and creative development will be greatly enhanced for all participants.

Barclay Powers has more then four decades of experience studying martial arts from many countries around the world. As an award winning filmmaker and martial arts scholar he seeks to create a modern translation of the principles and training methods of many ancient martial arts and their philosophies of personal growth and development. His emphasis is on self actualizing the principles of the Six Harmonies for greater health and well being both individually and collectively.