IDO MOVEMENT FOR CULTURE

Journal of Martial Arts Anthropology

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Abstract - Martial Arts and Contemporary Dance. Rhythmic Convergences of the Human Body

Problem Identification. According to the famous sinologist Marcel Granet, the concept of the world expressed by the Yin/Yang theory, is based on the universal efficiency of rhythm. The concept of rhythm is also fundamental to the new scientific paradigms which, in recent decades, have been discussing new theories of complexity, in order to go beyond Cartesian-Newtonian reductionism. Dance and martial arts are the two human experiences where individuals most experience the whole sense of rhythm. In recent decades increasingly frequent encounters between Western contemporary dance and Eastern martial arts have been developing.
Methodology. Analysis of classical and contemporary dance meeting combining with Eastern martial arts and meditation techniques. Different currents of contemporary dance produced four shows containing clear references to the techniques, philosophy, situations and scenarios of Asian martial arts. These performances are analysed by relevant literature and pictures.
Results. The experiences of the fusion of martial arts and dance that we analysed seem to re-discover the primal tie between play, drama and ritual, that was a characteristic of ancient societies. The aesthetic pleasure saves the reality of the object, which is, at the same time, under the influence of the subjective action; the result is an experience of artistic creativity which involves the human body as a whole.
Conclusion. Asian martial arts are based on the universal efficiency of rhythm expressed by the Yin/Yang theory. Dance re-discovers the artistic component of martial arts, thus starting again the search for harmony, beauty and peace which are the basis of the philosophy of martial arts.