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Kalarippayattu is the oldest Indian martial art that originates from the Southern Indian state of Kerala. It was born more than 4 000 years ago and is connected with the sacres text Dhanurweda. Its name literaly means a place for military exercises. The technique which was developed by kalarippayattu is a result of geographical conditions of Kerala, which is full of rivers, forests, hills, and lakes. Kalarippayattu practice includes such exercises as: Introductory; often connected with the full massage; with weapons such as: stick, sword, spear; and also breathing exercises with meditation. The training is completed by teachings of the vital points of a healing system called Marma Chikitsa, which is closely related to ayurveda, as well as the knowledge of rituals that accompany the training and fight. The most important aspect of kalarippayattu is shaping the spiritual attitude, developing attention and concentration, and learning how to control and manage energy. Kalarippayattu is a source of actor training among others for bharata natjam and kathakali dancers. In the Southern style of kalarippayattu there is majority of empty hand techniques, directed at the vital points of the human body, that use a system of locks, throws and kicks. Partner exercises are preceded by learning certain movement sequences that serve to coordinate and control the body in the space. As in the Northern style, the next step is the practice with weaponry.Work sessions will consist of the training of Southern style techniques which consist of learning movement sequences, elements of work with a long stick and stretching exercises. |