'Temple of the Monkey' is a grassroots NYC based martial training hall founded by transdisciplinary artist Damon Honeycutt. Temple of the monkey is home to the martial art ‘Wu K’ung Wu Xing Dao’ (aware of emptiness five element way) an art rooted in the teachings of Paulie Zink and created in homage to Sun Wu K’ung and Hanuman, the two great monkey kings. Wu K’ung Wu Xing Dao, also binds the philosophy of the Tao (Dao) and its five alchemical elements, aka the Wu Xing. Wu Xing is best applied in the Taoist Yoga that is the true beginning and end of the art. The Taoist elements of Earth, Metal, Water, Wood, and Fire, are transmuted into Qi, or vital breath, within the body by moving and static postures to better understand the subtle physiology and internal transformation. Taoist Yoga is designed to prepare you for the difficulty of martial practice, that is, the Wu K’ung of the art (aware of emptiness) trains the practitioner in the martial disciplines, be it forms, fighting, weapons, stealth and strategy.
More than just a train hall for competition and sport, Temple of the monkey trains the martial artist to become the fullest of there ability. It provides an environment that is free from the institutional mind, allowing them to freely explore the way for themselves with guidance from mentors and classmates. In this setting it allows for the development of a personal practice and the quest of understanding ones own relationship with the martial art you study. Personal truth in your art is a pathless land, you lose the road yet follow the way.
