A few years ago I was training with our instructor and a small group of students in a garage.

We were practising some techniques and my training partner mentioned an idea that I found unusual.

I didn’t give  it too much thought at the time but later on I started to use it in my training and found it to be very beneficial.

Although it may sound a bit weird, here is the technique.

1. Imagine there is a little man inside your tan tien.

2. Each time you practice a technique, imagine the little man doing exactly the same thing at the same time as you are, perfectly.

It’s a  simple concept and here are the reasons why it works for me.

1. It keeps my focus in the tan tien area – stops my mind from wandering.

2. My movements are more precise.

3. Improves my speed when practising a technique.

When I have reflected on this technique I’ve wondered if points 2 & 3 were part of my imagination or just a placebo effect. But it doesn’t really matter. If the only benefit I get from this concept is that it keeps me focused on my tan tien then it is worthwhile.

Before trying this technique make sure you have mastered the skill you are practising. If you don’t you could be fine tuning a bad habit.

If you decide to have a go, let me know if it works for you or not.

Footnote: re title – no, I was not influenced by Bob Dylan or The Byrds singing ‘Hey Mr Tambourine Man … Oh, hang on, maybe I was?