Should you wear a white belt when you visit or join a new dojo? . Why? Because you would be expressing ”Shoshin” (初心) – The Beginner’s Mind. You’re not there to “prove” anything… You’re there to LEARN! This requires an attitude of humility and lack of preconceptions. . Wearing a white belt when at a…
Tag: Bushido
“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…
“The true science of martial arts means practicing them in such a way that they will be useful at any time.”
The realm of martial arts is vast and diverse, encompassing various styles and techniques, each with its unique history and purpose. While tournaments serve as platforms for martial artists to showcase their skills and compete, the line between tournament techniques and self-defense is often blurred. Incorrectly teaching tournament techniques as self-defense can have serious consequences…
“Do you really want to spend even a few precious moments of time worrying what other people think?”
In the world of martial arts, long-term practitioners embark on a journey that transcends physical training and self-defense skills. This journey is also one of self-discovery, discipline, and personal growth. . To truly excel in the martial arts, you must grapple with the question: “Do you really want to spend even a few precious moments…
“To survive as an instructor you have to understand human nature.”
“To survive as an instructor you have to understand human nature. It is diverse and many people are not like you. Finding another person with a true MA’s spirit, with integrity, loyalty and a true heart is like finding a diamond on a beach of pebbles.” . “Many people you help will let you down,…
“Seek not to follow in the footsteps of the men of old but rather continue to seek out what they sought.”
Karate, is not merely a physical discipline; it is a living embodiment of tradition and lineage. This ancient art has been passed down through generations, preserving not only its techniques but also the cultural and philosophical values that define it. . With its roots in the Ryukyu Kingdom, the historical context of Okinawa, with its…
“Sonkei” – 尊敬 (そんけい): meaning ‘respect’ in Japanese.
The martial arts, beyond being a physical discipline, are a way of life. They embody a code of conduct that transcends the boundaries of the training hall and extends into everyday life. . At the core of this code is ‘respect’ – a fundamental principle that forms the foundation of all martial arts. . “Sonkei”…
“There is no end in the journey of learning true karate.”
“Practicing karate improves your lifestyle through health and mental stability. Okinawan karate focuses on developing mental strength and willpower. There is no end in the journey of learning true karate.” – Ippei Yagi 8th dan Meibukan Goju Ryu . Many people rely on external things to bring comfort and happiness. This is because most of…
“Put karate into your everyday life and you will find its subtle secrets.”
For me, the martial arts have more to offer than just physical fighting skills. They should also be able to enhance life as well as preserve it. And of course the martial arts can mean different things to different people; culture, fighting, fitness, personal development, self-defense, or sport etc. . The martial arts should teach…
“In battle, if you make your opponent flinch, you have already won.”
The flinch response is a natural and innate reaction that occurs when we perceive a sudden threat or danger. In the context of martial arts, the flinch response is an important physiological mechanism that can be used to protect the body from harm. When training in the martial arts, it is essential to understand how…
The ‘Dojo’ (道場) not just a place to workout. It is the “place of the way.”
There are numerous training facilities for all types and styles of martial arts. However, very few of these places rate the title of ‘dojo’. The commonly used terms of studio or gym are, in general, much more appropriate. Many of these institutions teach only the shell of an art and neither understand nor attempt to…
“Never raise your sword in anger”.
Okinawa is rich in moral stories, and karate masters enjoy the telling of these stories. One such story is that of the poor fisherman, whose shrine stands today in a small area south of Naha, Itomen. . Prior to annexation by Japan, Okinawa was known as the Ryukyu Kingdom. The legend of two men whose…