As we discussed in Part I, the Mulan Quan forms were created by Madam Ying Mei Feng and consist of a Basic Short Form, Long Form, both a Single and a Double Fan Form, and a Single and Double Sword Form. The Mulan Quan forms are often known as the “Royal Secret Boxing of Tang Dynasty” and/or “Sky-flying technique of Dunhuang”. As the Mulan Quan forms gain popularity, there have been competitions and exhibitions in both Asia and the United States. Presently, work is being done to bring Mulan Quan to the Olympics.
Mulan Quan is recommended for many things including obesity, sleep issues, cardiac problems, stroke rehabilitation, as an adjunct to cancer therapy, and for back problems (particularly lower back). According to Bill Douglas, co-author of The Complete Idiots Guide to Tai Chi and Qigong, Tai Chi Masters state that “You are as young as your spine is flexible.” Mulan Quan is also used as a physical therapy in some hospitals in China and as an adjunct therapy for emotional problems and issues.
Descriptive posture names,such as “Purple Swan Tilts Its Wings”, help the practitioner visualize and execute a particular movement. While the movements are derived from Tai Chi “boxing”, aspects of Chinese Folk Dance and some gymnastics have been incorporated. It is easy for observers to recognize the Tai Chi movements. Other movements are very ballet like. Certain other movements are quite athletic and require strong limbs. Together, Mulan Quan movements express both the delicate nature, as well as the strength of the practitioner.
Most Tai Chi forms (including Mulan Quan) start with some type of preparation stance to help calm and focus the mind and body. All Mulan Quan forms strengthen and enhance the flow of Qi throughout the body. Many of the movements require strong knees, and legs, particularly the thighs, although they can be modified for those with hip, knee or ankle problems.
Mulan Quan Basic Short Form consists of 24 movements that are both beautiful and powerful. Each movement, like all Tai Chi forms, flows into the next. The rotations of the upper and lower body joints improve balance, flexibility, and provide a sense of tranquility. Shoulder joints and hip sockets are also rotated in order to release some of the stress carried there. Other movements tone, loosen, and exercise the entire body.
Mulan Quan Fan Style: There are two fans styles, single or double. As with the Mulan Quan Basic Short Form, in the Fan form, arm muscles and joints are being exercised. As the body shifts from the Dantian, the entire body is being toned and loosened, while the movements enhance and improve good posture. This form is visually lovely and an excellent outlet for self-expression, as well as a way to improve self-esteem.
Mulan Quan Sword Style: The Sword Form best demonstrates the subtle power of Mulan Quan. The Sword Form loosens and lengthens the body from top to bottom. Muscles, including the abdominals, are toned, while flexibility and balanced are improved. There is also a Double Sword Form, which even further demonstrates the power and grace of the practitioner.
Unfortunately, even though there are numerous videos available on YouTube and DVDs for sale, information and documentation on the Mulan Quan forms is very limited. My extensive research turned up no scientific studies and little information other than the history of the form.
Check out a few of the videos. Some are quite lovely and others are mediocre. Mulan Quan is a unique Tai Chi form and truly needs to be seen in order to appreciate the intricate movements and the beauty of the form. And, who knows, it may soon achieve Olympic sport status!
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