A guiding framework for practice

The Four linking necessities

In traditional Chinese martial arts there are categories for each aspect in Kung-Fu training. One of the methods used for this training can be called the ‘four linking necessities’. They are as follows: Lien Li- Practice principles, Lien Zi- Practice structure, Lien Ji- Practice opportunity and Lien Chi- Practice chi.

The ‘four linking necessities’ can assist the practitioner in conceptualizing important aspects of their training. What is interesting about them is that even though they are used in martial practice their application can be applied to any real discipline.

(1) Lien Li -As practitioners we need a clear understanding and practical knowledge of the principles of our practice. Ask yourselves why we are doing a particular action and what purpose the action leads to. We must continually practice in accordance with the principles we are given taking into consideration that our understanding of them evolves as we refine ourselves and our abilities

(2) Lien Zi- These principles must be rooted and linked to a solid foundation. This foundation constitutes the practitioners structure. Our ability to understand the principles of our practice has a direct relationship with our ability to follow them. Our ability to follow them is directly related to a clear structure. If we fail to establish the proper foundation, no principle can ever take root.

(3) Lien Ji- When the principles are linked to a good foundation the practitioners have the skill. What is needed through experience is the ability to link the skills with the opportunities created when opposing forces are encountered. The fluidity of mind and body come together so that we interact spontaneously to our environment.

(4) Lien Chi- The practitioners develop fluidity in the ability to seize opportunities by having a calm and steady ‘chi’ (our cultivated life energy). The way we control ‘chi’ directly relates to how we generate forces in our lives. This also assists in clarity of our ability to respond to the environment.

In truth, the ‘four linking necessities’ assist in establishing clarity in our approach to work in any field of endeavor. What we may find interesting is that as traditional practitioners of Chinese martial arts the more we can apply these methods to our daily life the deeper our understanding of the art becomes. This is what the old masters meant when they said “ Practice all the time. Make your art your life and your life your art.” Consistency of practice over long period of time creates clarity of purpose imbued within a deep abiding respect for the humane struggle.

For those persons who are not martial artists, apply the ‘four necessities’ to what you choose as your work-art. This can be cooking, dancing, business, writing. The list can be endless. The important thing is to practice. A tool is only useful when it is used. So here is a tool. Use it!

Scott Ripke is chief instructor of the Green Forest Temple

5901 Freedom Blvd. Aptos, Ca (831) 688-6934

www.Greenforesttemple.org