Seishan - Part 3

By Master David Allerton (5th Dan)

Now for the third instalment of Seishan hyung.

There are 13 individual techniques in this form which includes 45 movements in all. More importantly KJN Hwang Kee states in TSD(SBD)MDK vol 2 that Seishan includes all 13 influences from Tae Geuk Kwon . Although the literal translation of the name means 13 it could also mean 10 plus 3; 10 as in the highest level but how can this be achieved ? I am sure you have noticed how many instances of 3 there are in this form as well as in Tang Soo Do generally ? It has long been suggested that to aim for perfection we should practise each hyung three times daily. The first to cultivate technique, balance and power generated from the waist; the second to visualise the Ho Sin Sul and develop the martial mindset and thirdly as KJN Hwang Kee puts it to “internalise movements without conscious thought”. Furthermore, I would progress solo training to include partner drills working each sequence in turn increasing the intensity as skill improves closely followed by impact drills to sharpen the weapons and strengthen the spirit. We can also consider 3 levels of Ho Sin Sul from the basic kick/punch (Level 1) to grappling/takedowns (Level 2) and finally Kup So (vital point strikes) the 5 elements and Um/Yang (Level 3). KJN Hwang Kee advises that only Senior Dans should practise this form.

Even though original movements have no doubt been simplified and externalised over time KJN Hwang Kee challenges us to re-interpret this hyung using the Sip Sam Seh.
I have demonstrated Ho Sin Sul applications using the following principles :

Sequence 1 : Yielding, re-directing, pull and unbalance before striking
Sequence 2 : Sinking, exposing vital points before repelling
Sequence 3 : Release and unbalance before striking/ hip throw
Sequence 4 : Parry, pull and strike with thumb gouge
Sequence 5 : 3 directional Inside out parry, pull/double strike
Sequence 6 : Evasion from rear attack, breaking free and striking
Sequence 7 : Seize and press then sweep/strike
Sequence 8 : Seize, wrist lock and takedown

There are, of course, variations to these applications and often the 8 energies are used in conjunction with each other. In all cases, however, we should employ the 5 Elements. Clearly the form contains the external elements as they are directional but Seishan teaches a great deal more than this. Overall the form shows how to get inside the opponents defences and attack the weakest points by destroying stability and balance. We can also use psychological warfare to disarm for instance by feigning illness, intoxication or even cowardice before unleashing devastating strikes. There are individual lessons too. For example, note in the first sequence we have power channelled from the dan jun moving diagonally (1), both for defence and offense. This is followed by a sinking (2) energy leading into a forward arc (3), again generated from the centre. The choke defence relies on reaction force from the ground to instantly lever the hold up then immediately down (4) to unbalance the attacker before using rotational power (5) to strike and throw. The “finger pointing” technique is an example of forward (6) energy and works equally well from the ground, particularly with a thumb gouge to both eyes simultaneously. The rapid fire inside out parrying movements and double punch demonstrate power created by quickly torquing the hips (7) on each successive technique. Next we need to withdraw (8) from a rear attack before returning (9) wavelike with a side stamping motion. We then continue to apply side energy (10) with a cross step and side kick followed by stamp and side hammerfist. The opposing techniques of palm and crescent kick/sweep create a splitting force (11) which is difficult to resist. We then take a step backwards (12) using external hip rotation to gather power for the punch. Finally, the arm is seized and a circular (13) palm movement locks the opponents wrist, complete the takedown by dropping into crossed leg stance. It is important to work on each of these principles individually so they are properly understood and can be applied to any situation.

The internal 5 Elements are well known to Tai Chi practitioners and can be explained in conjunction with Sequence 4 “finger pointing”. Awareness is indispensable for self defence and the initial punch to the face may have been anticipated by reading physical gestures or verbal abuse. The punch is parried in the direction it is travelling so it misses by the slightest margin. The attack has now been redirected and the opponent pulled off balance into a disadvantageous position. At this point his superior strength is diminished and we can counter with the appropriate technique.
This sequence of events may seem cumbersome but with practise can be performed in less than one second. The over-riding element is to have a strong, grounded energy which yields like a Willow tree in the eye of a storm yet springs back when the onslaught subsides. Balancing hard and soft radiates into our daily lives and provides a positive outlook on life. Metaphorically, Seishan teaches us to flow with the ways of nature; yielding and adapting to the things we can not change while at the same time spontaneously responding to opportunities as they arise. Daily discipline of Moo Pal Dan Khum balances dynamic tension with relaxation and deep breathing moving from ones centre with a strong grounded energy.

To continue with Ho Sin Sul the Sixth sequence begins with an attack from behind, possibly with a weapon. The back foot is lifted and pulled away followed by a returning stamp and backfist counter. If your hand is grabbed and the opponent is face on then the sharp pull away will hyperextend the knee which can be simultaneously kicked to the front. If the opponent grabs and turns slightly side on to protect his own groin then kick the side of the knee. If a weapon were used then you may need to cross step and kick to gain the necessary distance. Counter again with side hammerfist (pictured) to a Kup So point and middle reverse punch. The final movement in this sequence is a high section block though my feeling is that it does not fit with the spirit of the form. I therefore perform this technique as a rising elbow to strike or bounce away. This technique appears very similar but sits better with the 8 energies.

The 7th Sequence involves seizing and pressing the body in one direction whilst applying a crescent kick in the opposite direction (Splitting). It could equally be a press to the head and sweep to the lower leg. Either way once the opponent is unbalanced we take a backward step with external hip rotation to gain the necessary distance and power for a reverse punch.

The 8th and final sequence demonstrates how the arm may be seized with a circular double palm technique and a wrist lock applied which is made excruciatingly painful by dropping into crossed leg stance. Either use to restrain or if the opponent hits the ground the back knee and elbow are ready to follow through. An example of a very practical but often misunderstood stance. Furthermore, the double palm could equally be used to grab and crank the neck to takedown.

So there we shall conclude my look at Seishan hyung for the time being. I hope I have kept faith with KJN Hwang Kee’s direction. You will have your own ideas which I would be most interested to hear if you wish to share. I am sure if we return to this study at a future time we will have gained further insights – such is the depth of forms practice.

Yours in Tang Soo !