top of page

Taegeuk O-Jang

Fifth: Non-Action and Gentle Energy

The Seon principle of Palgwe is embodied in the fifth Taegeuk form. This principle is symbolized by wind and it's multiple instantiations. Wind is often thought of as violent and destructive--hurricanes, typhoons, and tornadoes all possess immense disruptive power. But, the most common way wind interacts with the world is through the gentle breeze, a force that penetrates without dismantling the order of things. The Seon principle encourages us to meditate on the rhetorical principle of wuwei, or, non-action. How can we travel the path of least resistance and make use of a gentle energy when persuading, collaborating, or interacting with others?  

Taegeuk 5 poomsae pattern diagram

Seon Principle

Trigram seon I-ching Tae Kwon Do

"Fifth: Meaning Wind"

For the longest time, I couldn't figure out how to write about the Seon principle. I was fixated on the branches, the blades of grass, the leaves and how they bend in the breeze. I thought the lesson I was supposed to learn was how to flexible...but the real trick is learning how to circumnavigate resistance and find a smoother path. So I began reflecting on moments in my life where important changes happened because of gentle kindnesses. I began envisioning role models who I saw as good representations of the breeze and its soft touch in the process of growth and change. 

More videos coming soon!

bottom of page