The Nga Mi method was diffused widely in the entire Sichuan region during the Tsing Dynasty (Thanh Triêu 1644-1911). Different styles had multiplied and had attained their peak numbers (about 300 according to the Manuscript of Professor Trinh Cân). For example, the famous Taoist monk “P’ak Meï T’ao Jin (Bach Mi Dao Nhân, the man with the white eyebrows) of Emeï Shan represented just one style. At that time the Sichuan region was also known for “Da Lôï Dài” (freestyle ring combat) which challenged all styles to measure up to it, thus enriching the development of martial arts techniques in that region.
In addition to internal corporal techniques (Thuong Phap Nga Mi) and the famous hand techniques (Quyên Phap Nga Mi), one could also observe specialties such as “Nga Mi Hoa Long Quyên ” (the form of the Fire Dragon of Nga Mi), “Nga Mi Kiêm Quyên” (the Arm Locks of Nga Mi), “Hông Khâu” ,”Luc Truu”
(six principles of elbow strikes), “Ngu Giac Quyên”, Pha Tu Quyên (technique of the lame man), “Thât Bô Huyên Công” (or Quyên Quan Ky in Qwan Ki Do), “Hâu Quyên” and “Ap Hinh Quyên” (the fight of the wild geese).
The hand techniques of Diêm, Bàn, Quan, Dê (direct, circular, descending, ascending) combined with quick movements can comprise a very powerful surprise attack (Nhât Thu, Liên Thu, Vi Thu). When defending, suppleness and evading “Tranh, Ne”, take precedence. So too do blocking aggressive moves (Công, Tiêt), and the use of lures to fool a defense, including the famous method of “Diêm Huyêt ” (strikes to the vital points)… The wealth of these techniques is the result of many centuries of research by an entire region.