Practicing Kung Fu Sword Forms and Photography in a Beautiful Autumn Ambience

Hey, everyone! I thought I'll switch things a bit and show you a glimpse into my morning Tai Chi and Kung Fu practice. We are in the middle of autumn and so the atmosphere for training outside is absolutely beautiful. The fallen leaves have created a blanket on the ground as if it the earth is blooming with orange flowers. It was a cloudy morning with a strong wind which you'll hear in the movie.

I got to the Kalemegdan park around 8:30, it's a vast space with not many people there. Joggers do gather here as it's a nice area for long distance running. And people with dogs of course. I found the spot where I'm not bothering anyone and vice versa and started with the warmup.

I brought my sword with me as I'm currently practicing two forms that use this weapon. In Chinese Martial arts sword is considered as the extension of warrior's body. Only when one reaches that level where the sword is not separate from him, does he becomes a master of his craft. There's a beautiful quote from the famous swordsman that says:

"The key in sword practice is that your body moves like a swimming dragon, never coming to a halt. After practicing over a long period, your body will unite with your sword, then your sword will merge with your spirit. There will be no sword anywhere, and everywhere there will be a sword. When you are able to understand this principle, you are almost there."
-- Li Jinglin

Movements with the sword are continuous unlike in some other forms where there is balance of action and waiting. Sometimes the movements are slower as if to seduce the opponent and wait for him to put his guard down. These are then followed with fast, explosive series of moves.

The section in this video is from a form called Dan Jian or Elixir Sword. It's an advanced form with some very nuanced techniques. Second Part of the video is the beginning of a form Tai Yi Wu Xing - also known as Five Animals Tai Yi form. It's another advanced form that incorporates movements similar to some animals like Tiger, Dragon, Crane...

I hope you enjoy this short cinematic video. I have been practicing Qigong, Tai Chi and Kung Fu for over a year now and I might start a series of lessons here if people show interest. We would start from simpler forms and I'll make sure to break it down to cover most important things. These ancient practices have tremendous benefits for mind, body and soul.

After the session I walked around the park to photograph nature and passers-by in beautiful, moody, autumn atmosphere. Some of the trees are hundreds of years old, huge in stature, spreading their branches wide. Glad I didn't stay at home this morning! :) Photos and video shot with Fuji X-Pro2 + 35mm F/2 lens.