The tiger teaches us to be simple, direct and in control of our actions, and that we are not to fear our opposition. One of the most powerful animals, it must learn to utilize good self-control to contain itself.
The Tiger represents Shaolin self-control. For younger students, that means controlling your body by being calm and relaxed without bothering others—not teasing, hitting, or yelling. For teens and adults, the Tiger represents our ability to control our thoughts and our actions as we navigate everyday life. For everyone, self-control means only using your martial arts skills and techniques to protect yourself and others you care about.
From the snake, we learn the importance of wisdom, experience and tradition, with minimalist actions used in a perfect, intense manner. The snake maximizes its fighting power through deceptive, agile, and fast movements utilizing extreme chi energy.
The Snake represents Shaolin respect. For younger students, that means using your manners, and being kind and polite when you talk to parents, teachers, and others around you. Treat property that is not your own in the same manner you would treat something special to you. As we grow older, the Snake represents both respect for others and respect for one’s self. We should both offer respect to others and expect it in return.
The crane shows us that balance, beauty, elegance, and grace are often the first step in resolving conflict. Evasive and good at judging distance, it uses long reach and patience to its advantage.
The Crane represents Shaolin patience. For younger students, the Crane teaches us to take the time to listen to others and not interrupt when others are talking. Calmly wait for your turn, and don’t complain when you need to wait for others. For teens and adults, the Crane teaches us that instant gratification may not lead to happiness. To practice patience, take a deep breath in and a deep breath out.
The leopard teaches us to use strategy, planning and foresight and to be thoughtful about confronting a problem or attacker. Pound for pound the leopard is the strongest animal, and its quickness and accuracy is key to its success.
The Leopard represents Shaolin honesty. Always tell the truth and always take responsibility for your actions. Be truthful to others, and also to yourself.
The mythical dragon represents all that is best, the mastery of the other four animals. When you are able to win without someone else losing, you have achieved the dragon solution. It is one of the strongest animals, using all parts of its body to defend, often in winding, circular movements.
The Dragon represents Shaolin discipline. And more specifically SELF-DISCIPLINE. For younger students, discipline means listening and following directions, especially from parents and teachers; doing chores without complaining; keeping your room clean; and practicing kung fu. As we grow older, self-discipline is key to success in school and in our careers.
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