The Old Way Is Getting Lost in Modern Qi Gong & Martial Arts

The Importance of Humility and Respect in Spiritual and Martial Training

In today’s modern world, the landscape of spiritual and martial arts practices, including disciplines like Qi Gong, is undergoing a significant transformation. While the accessibility of teachings has undoubtedly opened doors for many, there are challenges emerging that dilute the essence of these ancient practices.

The Rise of Superficial Spiritual Paths

One of the most significant problems today is the commercialization and simplification of spiritual paths. The age of easy access, digital marketing, and the widespread availability of online courses and tutorials has made it possible for anyone to claim the title of teacher or coach. This trend, while making spiritual practices more accessible, often leads to the superficiality of these paths. What was once a profound, multi-faceted journey of personal growth and spiritual development is now being reduced to a collection of external techniques or trends.

Unfortunately, this shift is contributing to the loss of the true essence of spiritual practices like Qi Gong. In many cases, practitioners and teachers alike focus too much on results, such as acquiring certain skills or improving physical appearance, without understanding the deeper purpose of these practices. The true goal is not about becoming a "better version" of ourselves in terms of achievement or external recognition but about transforming our inner state, shedding ego, and realizing our true nature.

The Dangers of Arrogance and Individualism

As the focus of many modern teachings shifts toward personal gain and material success, there is also an alarming rise in arrogance and a lack of respect among practitioners. This is a dangerous trend because it distorts the relationship between students and teachers—once built on mutual respect, trust, and humility—into something transactional and individualistic.

Historically, the relationship between teacher and student was deeply revered, especially in disciplines like martial arts and traditional Qi Gong. The teacher was a mentor and guide, not just in techniques but in moral and spiritual development. In the old Chinese martial arts schools, there was a strict selection process that ensured only those truly committed to the path could begin their journey. This kind of dedicated mentorship is missing in modern-day training systems, where many people expect instant results or try to shortcut their learning through online resources.

The absence of moral values and ideals can lead to a situation where the student approaches the practice with a self-centered mindset, seeking only personal benefits rather than seeking to improve themselves as human beings. It is all too easy to mistake physical progress or mastery of certain techniques for spiritual advancement, but this only inflates the ego and undermines the purpose of the practice.

The Role of Nei Qi Gong in Personal Development

The Nei Qi Gong path, while powerful, is not a guarantee of personal or spiritual growth in the right direction. Rather, it is an amplifier of who we are. Without the proper perspective and intention, the practice can strengthen our egos rather than help us transcend them. This is why I emphasize the importance of having a pure and humble goal when starting the path of Nei Qi Gong. We must ensure that we are approaching the practice with the right attitude and intention—seeking growth, not power, and humility, not pride.

Qi Gong, like any other practice, is not about achieving external recognition. The real purpose is about evolving into a better human being—one who is more aware, more humble, and more connected with the essence of life. This includes recognizing and confronting our limitations, our shadows, and our egos, and allowing the practice to guide us beyond them.

The Dangers of an Overfilled Cup

As a teacher, one of the most challenging things is working with students whose minds and hearts are already full. Often, this is due to pride or an overconfidence that arises from reading books, watching videos, or superficially learning about a subject. Some students come with the attitude that they already know everything, dismissing the wisdom of others simply because they might be younger or lack external experience.

This is where the true essence of humility becomes essential. A student must approach the teacher with an open heart and mind, ready to learn without preconceived notions. Only then can the real work of transformation begin.

The True Goal of Martial Arts, Qi Gong, and Spiritual Training

The core objective of martial arts, Qi Gong, and spiritual training should always be simple: to evolve and become better human beings. This means recognizing our limitations, understanding our shadows, and living in humility, realizing that life is far greater than us as individuals. We are just a tiny piece in a vast and interconnected universe.

Ultimately, spiritual practices like Nei Qi Gong and martial arts are about becoming simple human beings, grounded in the essence of who we truly are. Only through this simplicity can we experience true growth and development.

If you're looking to explore Nei Qi Gong, I invite you to join my online classes, where we delve deeper into the true purpose of practice:

Discover Nei Qi Gong Online: Explore Nei Qi Gong

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Let us approach this path together with humility, respect, and dedication, ensuring that our growth leads us toward greater understanding, peace, and connection with the world.