It's an exciting time to be Burtman. After some careful study of the first form of Shǎolín wǔshù (let's just call it 'kung fu'), I've started the second form, which is known as the interlinked boxing form. My legs have adjusted to the demands of the various poses (and that was quite a challenge), and I'm happily able to maintain them for extended periods, without discomfort. I never thought I'd be able to do that. Turns out, you really can teach an old dog new tricks.

The second form, as you may have guessed, contains a good deal of punching and blocking moves, as well as a few nice chops, (just to make it feel really Chinese). This form is longer, but after some repetition, it goes in and stays there.

Enjoy this badass demonstration of the form.

Kung fu is about more than fighting; it's methods teach discipline, self knowledge and compassion, among other valuable things. These lessons apply to all aspects of life and can transform the way you handle all kinds of situations, bringing peace, respect, and trust, and eliminating fear, greed and vanity. The Shǎolín branch of kung fu, like all others, has its own specific set of principles, and I am learning about them with fascination.

The rigorous training that takes place in the temples prepares mind, body and spirit for all eventualities. The unbelievable strain the human body can take is mind-blowing, and the strength a character can attain from hardship, just as much. In my journey, which has only just begun, I am already seeing this incredible martial art more in its cultural and human context than I ever did before, and this is a great gift.

I am excited and humbled to have finally found this path and to be able to share its impact on my life, as it comes.