The 'Oh' Moment

I have touched hands with a lot of wing chun people over the last 12 years, newbees to those with decades of experience.  If they are new to the Chu Shong Tin method there is usually a slight look of bewilderment and panic as they realise they are not sure what to do when I lay my hands on them.  Some people try lifting, others shifting , which ultimately leads to a collapse of structure.

The enjoyment comes for me when someone is locked up in their bong sau and  I touch the front of their shoulder, calm down the urge to meet force and encourage a release of the arm.  It does not usually take a lot before lifting turns to rotation and ease of movement.   This is when the 'oh' moment comes.  Months or years of struggle and then suddenly  the realisation that there is a easier way, that wing chun is not just a chain of techniques to be thrown out.  I recognise the look in the face as I have had it many times myself.  It seems so simple you think how did I miss it.

If you have had this feeling (I think all of our students have)  it is elating, inspiring and also leads to frustration.  'Why could I no do this before', or 'how come I cannot repeat it when you are not there' are the questions that follow. Ultimately we have to follow a process within our bodies so the release happens itself.  The teacher can help signpost the way, but as individuals we have to learn the terrain of our bodies and inhibit our learned reactions which cause tension.

I know the reactions of students well as I have gone through it many times.  I have a video of myself in Hong Kong with my wing chun uncle  being shown this, despite 5 years of training at the time.   In fact every time I go to Hong Kong I feel like a beginner again.  And to be honest, that is then way it should be.