February 10, 2013
-
Chinese new year celebration
Chinese new year celebration
Photo blog
Yesterday was the start of the Chinese new year. We left the year of the dragon and entered into the year of the snake. Significant for me because I was born in the year of the snake.
I was honored to be going to the opening of my new Tai Chi school’s venue. These are a few pictures of the day:
1) Opening with the lion dancing
2) The Dragon had to run
3) A welcoming by Shirfu Lan
4) Sword demonstration by my new instructor
5) Push hand demonstration
6) Telling the myth of the monk and how Tai Ji started.
7) Shaolin demonstrations
8) Sitting for a 12 course meal – Dining together
9) One of the highlights was when the Grand Master faced the Dragon
Comments (6)
I’m glad you found a new Tai Chi school. May this be a very good year for you.
I found your photos of the Dragon dance very interesting.
On the Island of Bali, I once attended a Barong Dance. The Barong is the Balinese equivalent to the Chinese benevolent dragon and during the dance triumphs over the evil spirit, Ragna. During the dance various dancers work themselves into a frenzy, and as they perform with real swords, actually sometimes hurt themselves. The dance MUST end with a live sacrifice – generally a bird or small animal – with lots of blood splashed around. Quite a shock to unprepared Westerners.It is often difficult for Westerners to comprehend the relationship between the physical dances and various martial arts schools of the Orient with their philosophy – something you seem to have no difficulty with. Good luck in your Year of the Dragon.
@songoftheheart - Thank you so far it is going well at the new school. I had to start over with a new style but having been exposed to three styles now gives me some more insight and ability to evaluate the value of what I am learning.
@tychecat - Thank you for sharing your experience. I am glad that we did not end up with any live sacrifices. The dragon in the picture is 40 meters long and quiet a site
Looks like fun!
So colourful, and expressive.
With so many opportunities to gain new knowledge and learning and more so, to be a part of such old traditions passed down through the ages, can be quite and experience..
Very enjoyable time had by all, I would imagine. Thank you.
@Evangelist_Guy - Yes it was. Thank you for the comment
@spshelfriend - Yes, I enjoyed seeing how another culture enter into their new year