The art of Poekolelan Tjimindie Tulen is rooted in authentic tradition and is abundant in spirit and meaning.
Here are a few images and their significance in our art:
The Crane
From the crane (blekok) we get aerial and multiple kicking techniques, knee parries and wing tip strikes. From the crane we also learn to appreciate stillness, a quiet mind, and a breath of fresh air. We learn balance, tranquility, and calm from this elegant animal.
The Snake
From the snake (oeler) we get coiling, wrapping, fast striking from any height or position, knuckle snap strikes, and a hypnotic movement which surprises our opponent. The snake teaches us to detach from drama and emotion, and to shed old skin and ways which no longer serve us.
The Monkey
From the monkey (monjet) we get medium high stances, sweeps, parries, crafty, devious and clever fighting. We also learn the meaning of community and working together, playing and having fun.
The Tiger
From the Tiger (matjanan), we learn that anything you can do in the air you can do on the ground. We get rolling, low kicks, rakes, elbow and knee strikes. Most self-defense situations end up on the ground making this practice so important.
The Dragon
The Dragon, “Naga” in Indonesian (which is where we get our name) is said to be the combination of the movement of all four Poekoelan animals: Monkey, Tiger, Snake and Crane.
Bamboo
Represents the whip-like strikes of our art, and the flexibility we develop in body, mind and spirit. In a heavy storm, the oak tree will break or topple over, while the bamboo bends and whips back.
Quan Yin
The Buddhist Goddess of Compassion is revered throughout Asia. Our art is often referred to as “Compassionate Balanced Action”. An honest, kind, and open heart is valued at NAGA.
The Rose Poekoelan Martial Arts
The symbol of Poekoelan Tjimindie Tulen. Beautiful to behold, but with thorns. Each student is like a rose – different, unique, yet beautiful. However, if you grab us, we have thorns.
Broken Mirror
Each practitioner has a base in the same standards but manifests the art in an individual way. This concept is exemplified in our movement, just as the pieces of a broken mirror all reflect the same image, but in a different way.
Meditation
Take a quiet moment for yourself before we begin each class. Let go of the cares of the day and focus on being present. After class, sit quietly breathing deep and let the lessons learned settle in as we set our intention for peace.
The River
“This belt represents the river of information that flows from teacher to student,” a phrase said at each promotion. We express gratitude to the teachers who have gone before us, and to our students, without whom the river would cease to flow.


NAGA
Martial Arts | Self Defense | Community

