Understanding and Reflecting on Kimu Practice in Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu-4

[진영]

《Table of Contents》

1. Kimu Training and Straight-Line Cutting
2. Why Move Slowly?
3. Even Breathing and Equanimity
4. Observing the Flow of Ki from a Third-Person Perspective
5. Common Mistakes Beginners Make
6. Kimu (氣舞): When the Body Begins to Dance — Understanding and Experiencing Spontaneous Movement
7. Kimu (氣無): The Principle of Non-Doing (Mu-wi Jeongbeop)
8. The Training Philosophy of Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu

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2. Why Move Slowly?

● The Reason for Moving Slowly

In essence, it's because there's no other way.

When you allow Ki (氣) to flow naturally, your body moves not by force but by aligning with the rhythm of nature—what we refer to as "natural movement" in Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu.

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● "Slowly" Doesn't Necessarily Mean "Slow"

In Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu, moving slowly isn't about merely repeating techniques at a reduced pace. It's about sensing the internal Ki, achieving unity between mind and body, and experiencing that integration.

By slowing down, you can more clearly perceive:

The subtle flow of Ki

The tension and relaxation within the body

The depth and connection of your breath


These sensations are essential during the first two stages of training—Su (修) and Pa (破)—as they bring you closer to the essence of KiMu (氣武).


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● Slow = Precise = Profound

Speed can be a tool for practicing techniques, but moving slowly allows you to observe yourself from a third-person perspective, facilitating insight and leading to harmony and balance.


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● A Single Cut in Harmony with the Universe

In Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu Haedong Kumdo, a single movement—be it a punch, a decisive sword cut, or a brushstroke—should embody the synergy of physical energy (Ki), mental intention, and the natural flow of the universe.

This integration transforms the action into a living expression‎ of martial art (武), dance (舞), and the philosophy of non-action (無).

Such an approach connects technique, philosophy, and healing, applying to all aspects of human endeavor, including martial arts, philosophy, humanities, and religion.

Without this integration, practices may deviate from their foundational principles, leading to fragmented martial arts, historical distortions, or even pseudo-religious movements.

Understanding this concept, even at a basic level, signifies meaningful progress in your studies.

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● The Process of Moving Slowly

Through the practice of moving slowly, you become accustomed to:

Refined postures

Synchronization of breath and Ki

Inner tranquility


This leads to the accumulation of energy and the cultivation of "natural movement."

While many training systems view this as an advanced practice, in Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu, it's a fundamental aspect introduced from the very beginning.

This approach exemplifies why Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu is considered a pioneering martial art of the 21st century.
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● Opening the Sensation of Ki (氣)

Ki is subtle, quiet, and responds delicately. If you move too quickly, you might miss these sensations.

In this practice, your mind's energy leads, the body follows, and your consciousness aligns with the natural flow of Ki, positioning you as an observer.


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● Ultimately, Reaching the State of "Naturalness"

Moving slowly doesn't merely mean being slow; it's about being gentle without being weak.

Through repetition, the body and mind become one with Ki, flowing naturally. This progression leads from KiMu (氣武) to KiMu (氣舞), and ultimately to KiMu (氣無).

At this stage:

The sword follows the body

The body follows Ki

Ki follows nature


This embodies the practice of Muwi (無爲), where artificial effort fades, and natural guidance prevails.

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● Perspective Matters

Understanding the difference between a straightforward answer and a general explanation highlights the importance of perspective.

From a human viewpoint, training is driven by personal will, making the process complex and sequential.

From nature's perspective, no elaborate explanations are needed. Simply following the natural flow aligns with the essence of Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu training.


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● The Love of Nature: Technique, Philosophy, and Healing

In human life, "seeing the world as it is" leads to a life of realization.

A life of realization becomes a life of accumulating love.

This is the essence and ultimate goal of practice—a simple and clear answer emphasized by countless sages throughout history.

However, human greed and ignorance often obscure this truth, leading to an overabundance of ornate expressions and metaphors.

By understanding both the beginning and the end, one can avoid straying from the path and reduce errors in judgment.

If the ultimate destination of martial arts training is "love," this perspective becomes more comprehensible.

Throughout history, martial arts founders have seldom spoken of love, but under a unified principle, it can be naturally explained through technique, philosophy, and healing.

In healing practices, one realizes the true value of love, which becomes the foundation for further growth.

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Note on Terminology:

Ki (氣): In Korean martial arts, "Ki" refers to the vital energy or life force that flows through all living things.

Muwi (無爲): A concept meaning "non-action" or "effortless action," emphasizing naturalness and alignment with the flow of the universe.

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April 16, 2025 (Wednesday)

Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu
Haedong Kumdo
Founder & Presedent
Kim Jeong Seong

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