Meditation, in its simplest form, is the art of exercising control of the functions of your own mind. Initially this entails clearing and emptying the mind, ceasing the mechanical and habitual flow of thought which arise of their own accord, and follow on from one another mechanically by the laws of logic and association. This sounds like the simplest thing in the world, but is actually the hardest.

In seeking to silence to logical part of our mind and cease the mechanical flow of thoughts physical exercise can be very useful. This is because it can provide a distraction which does not dull the mind and put it into an entirely passive mode (such as tv and so on), but which still gives one something to concentrate on in order to 'block out' our thoughts.

As is so well understood by Yogis, flexibility is also very important. In meditation flexibility of mind is paramount, and we must not forget that mind and body are linked. An inflexible body encourages inflexibility of mind, and vice versa. When you stretch try to feel as if you are stretching your whole being, not just your body, openning yourself up to new ways of thinking and being.

And perhaps most importantly of all is the issue of control. Many people forget that meditation is not just about peace and love - it is primarily about control - learning to control the mind and not to be controlled by it. And control is also at the heart of martial arts practice - complete control of the body and all its functions, another thing which sounds very easy but is actually very hard.

And when you really push yourself you find that the distinction between physical limitations and psychological limitations becomes very blurred indeed. Reaching the pinnacle of physical performance is about 'diggin deep' and finding the psychological strength to will yourself onwards, driving past your own barriers and beleiving you can do more - it requires not only mastery of the body, but also of the mind. True kung fu is not about controlling or overcoming an opponent, but about overcoming oneself, gaining complete mastery over ones own body and mind, and through tem, ones own fate.

In addition to this one must remember that at the pinnacle of kung fu the mind and body become one and everything becomes the eternal moment - and this too is a state of being held in the highest regard in most schools of meditation; for more on this aspect of kung fu take a look at our  The Art of Fighting Without Fighting page.

Treat your kung fu like a spiritual discipline, practicing religiously and opening your mind to its spiritual benfits, and you will not be dissapointed.