Many martial arts have a philosophical component. The Jade Dragon school comes from the centuries old Daoist tradition so the philosophical aspect is a part of every movement and skill that is taught.

At it's core is the work to refine mankind's basic nature - to tame the animals within. Mastery of the 8 animal styles literally requires mastering the emotional forces that are at constant play in our lives. In doing so we gain full control of ourselves rather than being at the mercy of our emotions and ego. Only when we can accomplish this can we reach for higher goals.

Training in the system develops a strong inner core, physically, emotionally and spiritually. This inner core makes us feel less like a cork in an ocean, bobbing this way and that and forever moving to currents and forces beyond our control. Many people take most of their decisions based on what other people want them to do. By doing so they are relinquishing their life's path to the whims of others. As they get older they think 'how did I end up here, what have I done with my life?' As you work your way through the 8 levels of the Jade Path you will become strong enough to make the choices that are best for you but without being insensitive to the needs of others. It helps you to find the path your life will take and to make the decisions that will keep you on that path and so become the person you dream of being.