I Liq Chuan (ILC) is an internal Chinese martial art system based on principles of Zen and Tai Chi. Literally translated, the name means "mind-body fist" or alternatively "mental-physical boxing."

I Liq Chuan (literally translated as Mental-Physical Martial Art) is an art of cultivating consciousness based on Tai Chi and Chan (Zen) principles of non-assertion, non-resistance, harmony of yin and yang, oneness and the present moment.

In the universe all things are created by conditions and function through the energy of yin and yang. The whole universe has yin and yang energy. When yin and yang energy is balanced, they are harmonized. Students are taught the art through philosophy and a series of exercises in order to learn to recognize and discipline the inner energy flow (Chi). Developing this art benefits the whole nervous and intrinsic systems and brings total control, harmony and awareness to the mind and body.

By understanding the harmony (yin and yang) of the body, recognizing the limits of the structure, the movement in each of the three dimensional planes of cycles, the student transforms this internal energy into internal power, accumulating Chi which propels the appropriate natural body movements. I Liq Chuan makes you aware of your strength, its limits, and the best use of your strength for self-defense.

As a system of Kung Fu, I Liq Chuan emphasizes the development of internal power through mental attitude and awareness. The training develops sticking and merging abilities, circular spiral energy, Chin Na, F’a Jing, Chi Kung, and most importantly, integration of the mind’s complete awareness in the present moment –be it in daily life or any situation. The “inner feel” is cultivated first, and then the appropriate external movement is merely an expression of the developed “inner feel”.

Practitioners of I Liq Chuan integrate this art into their daily lives to maintain their awareness by not hurting themselves or others. The awareness developed reveals the nature of everything. Thus, the student understands cause and effect in life and has the ability to maintain the “right understanding” in all situations. Right mindfulness is the mental state of being neutral, formless, and in the present. It is a state (Wu Chi) of being emotionless and unattached to but being aware of the physical world.
 

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Martial Arts Instructors

rich kelly

Rich Kelly has spent his life teaching martial arts and music to all ages. He began teaching Taekwondo as an assistant at age 14, he has taught & coached ever since. He first began studying with Master Sam F.S. Chin in 1997, becoming a disciple in 2004. His teaching method emphasizes hands on instruction & partner training to allow immediate, practical and honest feedback. 

A 30 year veteran of martial arts, he brings a depth of experience that ranges from training with the US Olympic Team, to personal instruction from Master Chin Lik Keong (founder of I Liq Chuan). Undefeated in amatuer full contact, he has won gold medals in Sparring, Sanshou and Push hands at Regional, National & Pan American tournaments.

Also a career musician, Rich teaches music classes, private lessons and workshops to all ages. He always looks to find what inspires each individual student and his unique experience teaching in many diverse contexts, allows him to bring a seasoned attentiveness to each student. 

Rich's love of martial arts, health, and Buddhism inspire him to continue to train and spread I Liq Chuan, the martial art of awareness. He currently teaches weeknight classes in New Paltz, NY, and conducts workshops internationally. Through Sam Chin's Zhong Xin Dao approach, he strives to honor the tradition, and integrity of the Chin family through the incredible gift of I Liq Chuan.

• Certified I Liq Chuan Instructor 3

• Taekwondo 3rd Dan (Kukkiwon -Seoul)

• Disciple of Master Sam F.S. Chin

• Gold Medalist, Sparring, Sanshou & Push Hands
   

• Wushu/Kung Fu (USWKF) 

• Regional

• Nationals

• Pan American
   

• Taekwondo (WTF)

• NYS Governors Cup

• US Cup

• Hwang's NE Invitational

CARISA BORRELLO

Carisa is a level 6 Student and level 1 Instructor of I Liq Chuan. She is the director of The Living Seed, which opened its doors in the summer of 2000. Carisa is also trained in Yoga and Hanna Somatic Education. Read more about Carisa here.