Shaolin Monks wow Johannesburg
Posted at Feb 02, 05 in Shaolin Temple News

The internationally acclaimed Shaolin Monks are in Johannesburg performing extraordinary feats in the art of Kung Fu. They have honed their Kung Fu skills over centuries. A deep spirituality has enabled them to do unusual stunts.

"It takes years to get to this level. And of course very strong, the power of the mind is the vital part in doing this," said Shi Li Hui, a monk.

Shi Li Feng, also a Shaolin monk, said: "Basically you need the inner air, which we call the Chi to get every part of your body well functioned." It started as a benefit show to raise money. Six years later 25 Shaolin monks, the youngest of whom is six, still have audiences in awe.

The Wheel of Life is based on an ancient legend of the monks' fight to protect themselves, using Kung Fu. It started with exercises to strengthen body and mind after meditation. However, soon these peaceful Buddhist monks were called to battle.

"They decided to use these methods of exercise to protect themselves against invaders. Imagine 1 500 years ago in China, it was a very dangerous place," said Steve Nolan, a producer.