

Every aspect of Tu Na Si Ba directly connects to the spirit, internal mechanics and martial techniques of Xing Yi Quan. This combination of inner-directed movement and breathing builds up Qi in the body, while simultaneously strengthening the tendons and bones. When practicing the gentle, slow movements of Tu Na Si Ba, one effectively "breathes out the old and takes in the new" (Tu Gu Na Xing). In both martial and Daoist practices, Tu Na refers to breathing exercises associated with self-cultivation. Tu Na literally means "spit out" (Tu) and "receive" or "accept" (Na). Tu Na Si Ba was traditionally only taught to senior disciples, and has never before been written about in English or Chinese.

In this unique book, Song Zhi Yong, a senior disciple of Li Gui Chang, reveals the formerly "secret" foundational training which is the key to Master Li's Xing Yi Quan: Tu Na Si Ba (Four Essential Breathing Forms) San Ti Shi (Three Body Posture Training). Hence, it is completely congruent with Daoist Yang Sheng (nourishing life) practices. Li Gui Chang's expression of Xing Yi Quan is sometimes referred to as the Xing Yi "Body Method," because of its emphasis on subtle internal body actions and internally sensing Qi and Jin. Li studied Xing Yi Quan and Ba Gua Zhang with the great Dong Xiu Sheng and Tai Ji Quan with Liu Dong Han. Few practitioners have approached Master Li's achievements in Tai Ji Quan and Xing Yi Quan. Teacher Tom Bisio’s newest book, Xing Yi Quan: Art of Inner Transformation, is a well-balanced read on the fundamental ideas and goals of Xing Yi (Shape of the Will Boxing). In Northern China and in Shanxi Province, the purported birthplace of Xing Yi Quan, Master Li Gui Chang is a legendary figure in the world of martial arts. Chinese-English Edition with link to online video of Tu Na Si Ba performed by Master Song Zhi Yong. Tu Na Si Ba - The "Secret" Breathing Methods of Xing Yi Quan.
