Tang Soo Do - Part II
© Dr. Donald Houston
The ideals of all martial arts are many, varied & all-encompassing of the life of the martial artist, or at least they should. They include:
Mental Benefits- Spirit Discipline- Leadership- Goal Setting- Determination- Focus Character- Persistence- Self Respect- Managing Stress- Listening- Motivation- Self Control- Better Grades- Respect for Others- Alertness- Obedience- Self Esteem- Concentration- Achievement of Goals- Physical & Skill Benefits- Agility- Strength Endurance- Flexibility- Physical Fitness- Mobility- Exercise- Relaxation- Conditioning- Reaction Time- Power- Balance- Muscle Tone- Weight Control- Breathing Control- Speed- Flexibility- Rapid Reflexes & Practical Self Defense
Tang Soo Do is founded upon a basis of Sip Sam Se. Sip Sam Se is not only the basic foundation of Tang Soo Do but truly of all martial arts. It consists of 2 meanings, "Pal-Gwe" which is the 8 directions of the universe (North, South, East, West, Northeast, Southeast, Northwest, Southwest) and "Oe-Heng" which is the 5 essential elements of the universe (Fire, Water, Wood, Metal and Earth).
As in zodiac symbols, these symbolic directions along with the elements have profound implications and definitions in Tang Soo Do philosophy. Basically one can describe "Pal-Gwe" as the 8 tactical movements that are in harmony with the directions of the universe. The "Oe-Heng" is described as the 5 strategic movements that are in harmony with the elements of the universe. Nothing in Tang Soo Do is not based, derived or drawn from these 13 movements.
NEH GONG Defined: Neh Gong refers to internal body conditioning exercises. It involves changing the internal body energies by special concentration practices.
NEH GONG Purpose: To promote a healthier body by controlling metabolism through the concentration of energies to various parts of the internal body organs.
WEH GONG Defined: Weh Gong refers to body conditioning exercises involving mainly the external parts of the body (i.e. muscles & skin) performed in order to promote a healthy human metabolism.
WEH GONG Purpose: Its purpose is to promote health of the external body by increasing the circulation of energy and promoting a healthier metabolism.
SHIM GONG Defined: Shim Gong refers to spiritual conditioning exercises. It involves control of your emotional being through a trust of confidence and positive thinking.
SHIM GONG Purpose: To promote mind, body and spirit harmony through positive thinking and trust.
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