Vol 9, Issue 3/2002

Standing Like a Tree – Zhanzhuang

Interview with Professor Yu Yong Nian (Beijing)

Professor Yu Yong Nian is one of the last living pupil of the renowned founder of the internal martial art of Yi Quan, Wang Xiangzhai. Martin Pendzialek visited him in Beijing and asked him about the essence of this art, which mostly does without external movements. A core element is formed by the practice of Zhanzhuang, the »Stand Like a Tree« exercise, in various positions. For many years Professor Yu Yong Nian has also been using this method for therapeutic purposes and has found that this exercise is particularly beneficial to the seriously ill. Daily practice is an important condition for treatment, with the duration adjusted to the abilities of the patient.

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