In the internal martial arts, we speak of the Four Extremities. These are linked to ancient Chinese medical terms which refer to the qualities of energy in different body systems. There is deep meaning in these terms, even beyond one's state of health. By learning to work with the extremities we can gain health and longevity as well as martial capability. Below is an excerpt of the classic texts. These are concepts that must be taken in layers and pondered deeply over time to develop to maturity.
The Four Extremities
What are the four extremities? They are the tongue, teeth, nails, and hair. The tongue is the extremity of the flesh. The teeth are the extremity of the bones. The nails are the extremity of the sinews. The hair is the extremity of the blood. The four extremities must be equal. The method to arrive at this equality is for the tongue to be as if it is breaking the teeth. The teeth are as if they are breaking the tendons. The nails are as if they are penetrating the bones. The hair is as if it were thrusting through a cap. The mind one battle and the inner behavior. Qi is naturally created in the dantian. Like a tiger's hatred. Like a dragon's power. Qi issues following a sound. As the sound issues so then the hand issues. After the hand has issued then the sound ends. The movement of one branch is equal to the movement of one hundred branches. If the four extremities are not equal, the inner energy will invariably leave.
The Song of the Four Extremities (The Four Tips)
1. The Blood Tip (hair):
When anger (Angry Qi) fills up the chest it makes the hair stand on end strongly enough to raise a cap, and the blood circulation quickens. This makes the gall bladder of the opponent go cold, and he loses his courage. Although hair itself seems insignificant, you will defeat your enemy with no difficulty.
2. The Flesh Tip (tongue):
When the tongue is rolled the Qi settles even if mountains shake.The flesh becomes hard as iron, and the spirit brave. Your impressive power is evident and your opponent loses his courage.
3. The Bone Tip (teeth):
When courage is in the bones you have the intention of eating the flesh of your opponent. The gaze is penetrating and the eyes protrude. This skill can confuse your enemy.
4. The Tendon Tip (claws):
When anger (Angry Qi) fills up the chest it makes the hair stand on end strongly enough to raise a cap, and the blood circulation quickens. This makes the gall bladder of the opponent go cold, and he loses his courage.
Excerpt taken from the Xingyi Classics
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