Ziranmen is an art form that has been taught and passed down via the Ziranmen Martial Art lineage (Zi Ran Men roughly translates to “Nature Boxing” or, more literally, “Nature Gate”). Based on ancient Taoist philosophy and Traditional Chinese Medical Theory, it combines physical training, Qigong (also Chi Kung), meditation and combat techniques.

Ziranmen is a martial art in which principles are more important than specific techniques. This recognises that although Ziranmen has techniques, underlying principles are at the root of all techniques. All techniques can be adjusted depending on the context and in accordance with these principles. Such an approach based on the primacy of principles underpinning techniques allows the practitioner to be more adaptable and resourceful. This requires that the underlying principles must be first understood to be able to be applied by the practitioner in any situation.

Zi Ran Men training can be divided into three components: Physical Training, Combat Techniques and Conditioning. Zi Ran Men training enhances the spirit of the mind, regulates the circulation of Qi (also Chi) and develops physical sensitivity. You will have freedom of movement when you can successfully apply these theories. Your attacks and defence will be fluid and agile. Ziranmen training includes iron rings, footwork, inner Circle Hand (Nei Quan Shou), Eight Forms of Shaolin (Shaolin Ba Shi), 1008 movement (Tao Jia Qian Ba Zuan) and breathing exercises.

Zi Ran Men has been responsible for some of the most highly regarded martial arts masters in its history. Three of these masters are Dwarf Xu 徐矮子, Du Xin Wu 杜心武, and Wan Lai Sheng 万籁声.