(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…
Tag: Zen
Skill Over Size: The Right Mindset For The Right Context Matters Most.
(Approx 1 minute 50 second read) This week, a potential student expressed concern about his low weight and its impact on the effectiveness of karate for him. . Does size give someone an advantage in a fight? . Height, reach, and weight play significant roles in combat sports, and most tournaments have weight categories to…
Embracing the Present Moment. The Art of Mindful Living.
(Approx 2 minute 20 second read) In many aspects of life, we strive to learn, improve, and feel confident in our abilities. With each step, we inch closer to our goals. But sometimes, a nagging doubt creeps in: “Am I even getting better?” This feeling can be paralyzing, fueling anxiety and hindering progress. . Dwelling…
Don’t Try This at Home: A Lesson in Common Sense.
(Approx 2 minute read) Continued from my recent article in response to reader comments about the idiotic idea of catching a sword, a ‘katana,’ in the palms of the hands. Mostly, the comments were sensible. However… you know what’s coming, right? . One comment suggested that I was mistaken, claiming it is entirely feasible. He…
The Dangers of Misinterpreting Traditional Martial Arts. Facing the Facts of Karate’s Practical Limits.
(Approx 2 minute 5 second read) Some of the comments on my articles are really interesting to read, often inspiring me to write more. Many of them offer insight into the training of friends and colleagues from all over the world. . On the other hand – OMG. . The article in question was where…
Lineage vs. Teaching: What Really Matters in the Martial Arts?
(Approx 1 minute 35 second read) Lineage holds a significant place in traditional martial arts, signifying a historical line of teachers and students who have passed down knowledge and skills through generations. . This unbroken chain connects practitioners to the art’s origins and fosters a responsibility to preserve its legacy. . Studying under a master…
From Respect to Rifts: The Role of Negativity in Karate.
(Approx 2 minute 15 second read) Traditional karate, with its rich tapestry of styles and history, is often seen as a domain of discipline and unity. However, beneath the surface lies a landscape fractured by disagreements and divisions. . A poignant example is the notable dislike between two karate legends, Funakoshi Gichin and Motobu Choki….
Be teachable. The world is full of lessons waiting to be learned.
(Approx 1 minute 36 second read) In modern times, there is an emphasis towards performing kata aesthetically without grasping the underlying principles, and with more kata available to watch on video, or YouTube, many students now learn them this way. . For me, it’s not the number of kata you know, but the depth of…
“Fleeing combat is not shameful. Shame lies in starting it for no reason.”
(Approx 1 minute 35 second read) When I teach, or when I write an article, my goal isn’t to persuade anybody of anything; I’m here to present information or my opinion. What you do with that information is entirely up to you. . However, if I can help just a few people consider something different,…
Tension vs. Flow: The Challenge of Achieving Efficient Movement.
(Approx 2 minute read) Karate, at its core, is a discipline built on efficiency. It’s about harnessing the body’s natural movements and channeling them into powerful techniques. . A student recently remarked while watching me demonstrate a movement, “We have a long way to go.” . He was referring to how relaxed I seemed compared…
“Karate has many stances; it also has none.”
(Approx 2 minute 10 second read) Nakasone Genwa (1895-1978), once said, “Karate has many stances; it also has none.” This seemingly paradoxical statement highlights a crucial concept in training: stances are not rigid, fixed positions, but rather dynamic movements that serve a specific purpose. . In everyday English, we use the word ‘stance’ to infer…
“The greatest victory is that which requires no battle”
(Approx 1 minute 30 second read) Many of us have experienced situations where we felt unsafe or powerless. Maybe it was childhood bullying, an uncomfortable encounter at work, or the sting of online bullying, or even the threat of physical violence. . In these moments, a common feeling emerges: the inability to control the situation….