Lu Ping An Chuan Fa

I had a student ask me in her one on one last week about the foundation of Lu Ping An Chuan Fa. She wanted to know the specifics of the style that define it as a style.  This is quite possibly the best question a student could ever ask. The answer to this question should provide the foundation to your training.

The foundation to any style is not a single answer. There are several ways to answer the question. In fact, you ask that question more than once, you probably will get more than one answer. In our case the most important answer lies in the name of the style. Lu Ping An literally translates as ‘Walking in peace and harmony.’

Walking in peace and harmony. Originally, the way the name of our style resonated with me had to do with the physical self defence components of the style. Being a Kempo style, Lu Ping An Chuan Fa requires a student to not only be able to perform but also put up. It is not a flamboyant style but it is an effective style. A person who can handle themselves in a sticky situation can spend their days confident in their ability to protect themselves. They can walk with little worry in peace and harmony.

As I evolve as a martial artist, the way the name of our style resonates with me also evolves. It is more than just the physical aspects. It is also about the internal aspects. Specifically, it is about the harmonization of my spirit with my intent - the root of the six harmonies.  Pursuing a direction or intent that is not harmonized with your spirit (who you are) is the equivalent of expecting to graduate from university (intent) but not having the discipline to attend classes or complete assignments (spirit). Until you change your approach to university (start attending classes), your intent to graduate is unreasonable.

As I learn more about myself (my spirit), my intent will harmonize with it and become realistic and attainable.

Jeff Brinker