Michael Minick

The first truly comprehensive book on kung fu looks at every aspect of this ancient art-from its earliest history as a simple form of boxing to its subsequent evolution into the complicated art that it has become over th e last 5000 years. Collected here, too, are the specific truths of the masters themselves-approximately 500 sayings, many of which have never been published in the Western world-that embody the wisdom by which the kung fu men and women guide their lives.

Contrary to popular opinion, kung fu is not merely a form of self-defense. While personal combat is a significant aspect of the art, kung fu encompasses such areas as Chinese medicine, alchemy, weaonry, scholarship and practical philosophy. Traditionally, kung fu men and women were expected to study the wisdom and skills of a wide variety of professions in these areas and only those students who were able to succeed in these fields earned the title of master.

But the true meaning of kung fu is the state of mind so necessary to excel in these fields as well as in all human endeavors: it is the ability to transcend worldly problems and achieve life in a state of peaceful harmony. As the author surmises; 'kung fu is a spirit, an idea, a folk culture, a way of living.'

The Wisdom of Kung Fu serves as a history, an entertainment and, most importantly, an inspiration.

Michael Minick's interest in oriental culture dates back more than a dozen years. After studying philosophy and history in college, he became Editorial Director of Man's World and Action for Men and Managing Editor of True Action. His articles and stories have appeared in Penthouse, True and a number of men's adventure magazines. the author of The Kung Fu Exercise Book, Michael Minick now lives in New York City.

From the book-
Falling hurts least those who fly low.-Anonymous

If you wish to eat the food of an official, you must be born with the teeth of an official.-Anonymous

If you love your son, be liberal in your punishments; if you hate your son, accustom him to luxuries.-Anonymous

There is no greater lie than the lie that becomes necessary to defend another lie.-Anonymous

Humility is a good thing, but overhumility is near to crookedness; silence is a virtue,but undue silence bespeaks a deceitful mind.-Tut-Tut

Break the regulations, rather thankill an innocent man.-Tsochuan

He who has never tasted the bitterness of life has never known the sweetness of it all.-Anonymous

A phony kung fu man shoots out his hand ferociously, but his punch contains no true strength. A master is not so flamboyant, but his touch is as heavy as a mountain.-Chueh Yuan

Kindness is greather than law.-Anonymous

Contents

Part I
1 What is kung fu?
2 The history of kung fu
3 Kung fu coustoms and training
4 Popular kung fu techniques
5 Kung fu health practices and Chinese medicine
Part II
the wisdom of the masters
Mysticism
Superior man
Moral teachings
Government
Combat
Human nature
Practical advice… (more)

An amazing effective, easy-to-follow approach to positive good health and well-being.

Contents

1 The secrets of health and exercise in China
2 Chinese medicine's route to good health and well-being
3 The benefits of Chinese medicine
4 The history and development of Chinese exercise
5 Why America needs Kung fu
6 A daily program
7 The exercises
Relaxation
Deep breathing
Concentration
Grace
8 Demonstrating the exercises
Warm-up exercises
Ancient art silk-weaving exercises
Advanced series… (more)