Concentration

Singleness of purpose is an ultimate quest – Lao Zi

The quote above, by Lao Zi, refers to the importance of mental concentration in all activities, but paramount in martial arts.

To project and focus the mind on one subject to the exclusion of everything else is called concentration. In today’s lifestyle, where a diversity of ideas and stimuli assail both mind and body, concentration is not easily achieved. For the martial artist, however, the ability to concentrate is absolutely necessary.

Teaching the mind to concentrate intensely over long periods of time is difficult for beginners to accomplish. But despite the problems encountered in learning to concentrate properly, success is possible if the proper methods are used. Through regular practice, the wandering mind can be brought to focus.

At first, it is best to start by concentrating for brief moments on one specific subject. A word, a picture, or counting your breaths will suffice. The idea is to keep your mind focused on the chosen subject without letting outside thoughts, sounds, or other influences disturb your concentration.

Beginners typically find that all kinds of thoughts will enter their mind, and that even a few seconds of unbroken concentration is hard to achieve. When outside thoughts intrude, don’t try too hard to repress them. Giving them too much attention or trying to force them to go away will only make them stronger. Let the thoughts pass and start over. In time, and with practice, you will be able to concentrate for longer periods of time without interference.

For martial arts training, the best way to bring a wandering mind into focus is to practice deep abdominal breathing. The process is to count the breath cycles; one inhalation and one exhalation form a complete cycle. By keeping track of the number of cycles, you can keep your mind from wandering. Also, while focusing on counting your breath cycles, it is important to pay special attention to making the breath long and as quiet as possible. In this way, even a barking dog will not disturb your concentration.

A healthy diet also affects your ability to concentrate. Moderation should be exercised with all types of food. Try to eat natural foods, stay away from too many sweets, carbonated drinks, and caffeine. Too much meat also burdens the mind. Eat smarter and you will start to notice a remarkable change in the perception and focusing power of your mind.

Originally published in the Wugong Journal, November-December 1997.