Zhan Zhuang— Ritsuzen in Japanese—through the insights of renowned Chinese master Cui Ruibin. Yiquan & Taikiken: Zhan Zhuang / Ritsuzen Explained by Master Cui Ruibin In this deep dive into the powerful internal martial arts of Yiquan and Taikiken, we explore the foundational standing meditation practice known as Zhan Zhuang—referred to as Ritsuzen in Japanese—through the insights of renowned Chinese master Cui Ruibin. Yiquan (意拳), or "Mind Fist," developed in the early 20th century by Wang Xiangzhai, emphasizes mental intention over physical form. It strips away traditional external movements to reveal a pure, principle-driven practice rooted in awareness, sensation, and natural body mechanics. Taikiken, introduced to Japan by Kenichi Sawai after training with Wang Xiangzhai and his disciples, brings these same principles into the context of Japanese martial culture. At the heart of both systems lies Zhan Zhuang—or Ritsuzen—the deceptively simple standing posture practice. But as Master Cui Ruibin explains, Zhan Zhuang is not merely standing still; it is a profound method of training internal power, developing structure, balance, and stillness that allows movement to arise from deep relaxation and whole-body integration. Cui Ruibin breaks down the true essence of this method: the alignment of the body, the awareness of tension and release, and the cultivation of inner stillness amidst outer stillness. He emphasizes the mind-body connection, encouraging practitioners to explore sensations, energy flow (qi), and mental intent (yi) as the real engine of martial power. This video is not only a technical explanation but a transmission of deep experiential knowledge. Whether you are a beginner interested in internal arts, or a long-time martial artist seeking to deepen your root, this content offers an authentic doorway into Yiquan and Taikiken's transformative potential. Watch as Master Cui guides you into stillness, into structure, into true strength. 🌀 Stillness is not the absence of motion—it is the source of all movement.
