“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….
Category: Okinawa
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…
“When I tell people that back in the day I never missed class they don’t believe me. But it’s not a boast because I wasn’t unusual. Back in the day, nobody missed class.”
“When I tell people that back in the day I never missed class they don’t believe me. But it’s not a boast because I wasn’t unusual. Back in the day, nobody missed class.” – Gavin Mulholland Shihan, 7th Dan DKK Goju-Ryu . I too, like Shihan Mulholland, never missed a class. It just wasn’t done….
“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…
“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…
“Within you there is a stillness and sanctuary to which you can retreat at any time and be yourself.”
Life’s journey is a tapestry woven with diverse experiences, challenges, and transformations. As the years pass, our perspectives shift, and priorities evolve. . Amidst the chaotic rhythm of existence, there emerges a profound need for stillness and calm. This search for serenity becomes particularly poignant for those who find solace not just in the quiet…
“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…
“A great martial arts teacher is not just an instructor; they are a mentor, guiding their students not only in the art of combat, but also in the art of living.”
In the intricate tapestry of martial arts, a good karate instructor stands as a beacon of wisdom, inspiration, and guidance. Their role transcends that of a mere teacher; they are mentors, motivators, people you can trust. . They should possess not only profound knowledge but also exceptional skills honed through years of dedicated practice. Their…