by Steve James on Sun Jan 27, 2019 12:01 pm
Holding stances is as old as CMA. Of course, there is that old legend that Shaolin training originated as health exercises for sedentary monks. But, anyway, my point is that "holding stances," "holding a ball" (in tcc), and "tree-hugging" are only similar in that the practitioner is standing and holding his arms in a particular position.
Afa holding postures in tcc, that is essentially how one is taught. At least, in my experience, every movement is taught in small steps. "1, 2." Then, the teacher says "Do it again." Sometimes, the entire moving sequence was only done at the end of the class. Iow, most of the beginner training consisted of standing. However, holding the horse stance with arms out was not emphasized. Otoh, there are neigong exercises where one takes that specific position. I know people who hold those positions for hours.
Deriving or sharing energy with a tree is a different thing, whether one thinks it makes sense, is beneficial or not. It doesn't matter whether one considers it jibengong, qigong, or neigong, doing so will have an effect on the entire system. Improvement in any of those areas will be martially useful.
Well, people should do what makes them feel good. However, I would never recommend that a 3 year old stand post unless he or she wanted to do it. In a country with a billion people, a tradition of martial arts that also offers a chance for success, I think there'll be quite a few children who want to practice or who are encouraged by their parents. I would prefer if my kids just had fun. They can stand when they're older, or elderly when standing is a "real" exercise. In fact, I would recommend standing to everyone in a rest home, and hope it makes them strong enough to walk. I think it will benefit a 70 year-old more than a 7 year-old. Jmo.
"A man is rich when he has time and freewill. How he chooses to invest both will determine the return on his investment."