“Shoshin” – the evergreen state of having a beginner’s mind. . This principle, drawn from Japanese philosophy, encourages practitioners to approach each moment with an open and receptive mind, unburdened by preconceived notions. . In essence, it urges practitioners to embrace the learning process with the same enthusiasm and openness that they had as beginners….
Month: November 2023
Earning a black belt doesn’t mean you’ve reached the end. It means you’ve seen how far the path leads and you’re willing to keep walking.
Someone said to me recently; “I’m getting my black belt at the weekend.” . This may strike a chord with many instructors, and it raises an important question: Can you simply just “get” a black belt? (It’s a rhetorical question by the way) . The black belt, a symbol of dedication and skill, earned through…
“One need not destroy one’s enemy. One need only destroy his willingness to engage.”
On social media and comments I receive on some of my articles, the perception of Mixed Martial Arts as the ultimate solution for ALL self-defense scenarios has reached new heights. With individuals who have never received any formal self-defense training, confidently declaring that MMA is the be-all and end-all in real-life confrontations. . MMA’s visibility…
“The passage of time leaves its marks, but the spirit of karate is resilient, adapting and growing stronger with each challenge, proving that age is not a limit, but a testament to the enduring power within.”
The martial arts, with its rigorous training and physical demands, often fosters a culture of resilience and perseverance. How many times have you been told to ignore the pain, fight on, never give up? . Practitioners are often taught to push through pain, to persevere in the face of discomfort, and to cultivate mental toughness….
“The difference between who YOU are and who you want to be… is what YOU do.”
One principle that has stuck with me in my martial arts training is the belief that “once learned, never forgotten”. This principle is not just a personal mantra but a tribute to the dedication and wisdom of my teachers, whose teachings I endeavor to cherish and uphold. . It bewilders me how some individuals can…
“You need great passion because everything you do with great pleasure, you do well”.
The great Formula 1 racing driver, Juan Manuel Fangio’s insightful quote, “You need great passion because everything you do with great pleasure, you do well”, serves as an enduring reminder of the importance of passion in any endeavor. . This statement resonates strongly for me, where passion is not just a desirable trait but a…
“Karate aims to build character, improve human behavior, and cultivate modesty; it does not, however, guarantee it.”
Personally I believe being polite serves us best. I receive many messages on social media with just a couple of words. As an example: “where are you?”, “who taught you?”, “how can I learn karate?”, “what is your style?”, “what black-belt do you have?”. And many, many more. . Nothing promotes silence from me more…