(Approx 2 minute 5 second read) We had a great class on Saturday. Those moments where a student has a lightbulb moment and says; “Oh, I get it now.” . You can teach someone something, but quite often students have to ‘feel’ it for themselves, they have to experience it firsthand. . Now, I also…
Tag: Zen
The Mindful Warrior: Paying Attention to What’s Right in Front of You.
(Approx 1 minute 58 second read) Zanshin (残心) is a term commonly used in Japanese martial arts to refer to a state of relaxed alertness. Literally translated, “zanshin” means “the mind with no remainder.” In other words, it is the mind completely focused on action and fixated on the task at hand. . Instructors often…
Freedom of Expression: Respect Starts Here.
(Approx 1 minute 35 second read) The internet has become a vast arena for sharing ideas, knowledge, opinions, and video learning. Recently, I received a comment on one of my articles that stated, “The internet is a free world; you can think what you want.” . This comment came after I pointed out that the…
Fighting First? The Misguided Approach to Martial Arts and the Wisdom of Avoiding Conflict.
(Approx 2 minute read) A comment on one of my articles, which often inspire me to write another (thank you), stated; (expletive removed) “**** self-defense. I teach people to fight.” . Is this instructor right? After all you are learning a combat art not playing a game. . Much of what is considered modern karate…
Living in the Moment: Quieting the Monkey Mind.
(Approx 2 minute 25 second read) A riddle I’m sure you have heard before: What is always coming but never arrives? The answer is; tomorrow. . What does this riddle tell us? Today, now, that’s all there is. Don’t dwell in the past, don’t dream of the future – concentrate the mind on the present…
“We must keep the spirit of Budo no matter how we practice.”
(Approx 2 minute 30 second read) “We must keep the spirit of Budo no matter how we practice.” – Yoshimitsu Yamada (1938-2023) . I received a comment on one of my recent articles about teaching in the martial arts. The basis of my article was to give appreciation to teachers who continuously share knowledge, foster…
“I consider it my duty to pass on karate history to the next generation.”
“I started karate by practicing the Shorin-Ryu style under the supervision of my grandfather. After he passed away however, my family moved to Naha city, where I was acquainted with my new instructors. They taught me Goju-Ryu style karate as well as kobudo. Every day it was the same routine, train at school, train at…
The Balanced Warrior: Find Humility in Your Training.
(Approx 1 minute 44 second read) Many people, at some point in their lives, have been victimized, exploited, or bullied in some form or another. . Whether this relates to being bullied as a child, an adult being singled out at the workplace, bullying online, or in more serious cases, an individual being mugged on…
Break the Cycle: Elevate Your Karate with the Power of Mindful Training.
(Approx 2 minute read) If your mind is full of thoughts and doubts, you are too busy thinking and not able to focus on what you are doing, perhaps unable to practice correctly. . I have witnessed students, and instructors, practice their techniques, over and over, one after another, their mind not really in to…
What’s in a Dojo name? Everything, if it’s chosen with respect and a deep understanding of its significance.
(1 minute 45 second read) What’s in a Dojo Name? . Recently, I was ‘told’ that I should not have chosen the name “Shuri Dojo” for my dojo. It is not on Okinawa, after all. Naming your dojo this way is wrong. . What? . There are some really good associations and schools out there…
“Teachers Open The Door, But You Must Enter By Yourself.”
(Approx 1 minute 32 second read) The proverb “Teachers open the door, but you must enter by yourself” serves as a powerful reminder of the essential role teachers play in your lives. While they provide you with knowledge, guidance, and support, it is ultimately up to you to take responsibility for your own learning and…
Black Belt? Now What? From Milestone to Proficiency. The Path Continues.
(Approx 2 minute read) The journey to your black belt has been long and challenging, filled with dedication and hard work. But what happens next? . The day after your achievement, amidst the fading excitement, you might realize: . Nothing is different. . You might have a few more bruises, perhaps a black eye, or…