(2 minute 3 second read) The effectiveness of karate for self-defense hinges on a fundamental principle: simplicity. . In the face of a sudden threat, clear, concise movements hold the key to an effective response, even if that response is simply to escape. . In the face of a sudden threat, you will experience a…
Tag: Lineage
“Kata without bunkai is like a shamisen; Nice sound, but empty on the inside.”
(2 minute read) A comment on one of my articles stating, “I don’t believe in bunkai,” sparked a heated conversation and many comments, about its fundamental role in karate. . Such disregard reflects a misunderstanding of the art itself. . What is Bunkai and why is it necessary? . Bunkai (分解), literally translating to “analysis”…
“The loudest claims of ‘no ego’ often echo with the loudest need to shift blame.”
(1 minute 35 second read) Recently someone commented that they have “no ego”, and I wondered why he would state this. . “I have no ego,” the words tumble out, a disarmingly humble shield against the rising tide of blame. But beneath this seemingly self-effacing declaration, a different truth might lurk: the art of shifting…
“We frequently mistake persistence with a technique for its effectiveness, failing to acknowledge when it’s simply the wrong tool for the job.”
(1 minute 55 second read) Much of today’s martial arts training, often presents a romanticized image of combat. . You bow, assume stances, exchange strikes within a controlled environment, with padded hands and feet, possibly even head guards too. This structured approach fosters discipline, technique, protection, and respect – but does it truly prepare you…
The technical terms we readily use in traditional karate today, bear a surprising secret: they emerged long after the techniques themselves.
(2 minute read) The technical terms we readily use in traditional karate today, bear a surprising secret: they emerged long after the techniques themselves. . Imagine stepping into an early Okinawan karate dojo. Unlike today’s regimented classes, this environment was very different. . The teachers of the time passed down their knowledge to only a…
“What you leave behind is not what is etched in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.”
(2 minute 5 second read) Within the martial arts there are many types of people. Some have morals and are good people that you can rely upon, and others…….well, not quite so much. . You would think that historically, where character traits such as honor, integrity, courtesy, perseverance, and an unbreakable spirit, are held in…
“Karate-do may be referred to as the conflict within yourself.”
(1 minute 49 second read) What motivates you to practice karate, or any martial art? . That’s a question that echoes in every dojo. Karate, as rewarding as it is, can often feel like a battle against your own comfort zone. . The truth is, motivation isn’t some mystical gift bestowed upon a chosen few….
“You should always train with intensity and spirit as if actually facing the enemy, and in this way you will naturally be ready.”
(2 minute 15 second read) Anko Itosu, revered as the father (sometimes Grandfather) of modern karate, through his teachings, and writings, Itosu shaped the course of karate’s evolution. . Anko Itosu was born in 1831 in Shuri, the capital of the Ryukyu Kingdom, now Okinawa. Little is known about his childhood, but it is believed…
“In karate I live, in karate I die.”
(1 minutes 40 second read) Chōshin Chibana (1885-1969) stands as a pivotal figure in the history of Okinawan karate, earning the moniker “Last Warrior of Shuri” for his dedication and contributions to the martial arts. . Born in 1885, his life intertwined with the evolution of Okinawan martial arts, leaving an indelible mark on its…
To be a great student, you need to be a good listener. If you’re not listening, you’re not learning.
(2 minute read) Many people tend to skim articles or posts rather than read them in full. Some may merely glance at the content or quickly view images and move on. . They may even leave comments without fully grasping the context or considering the content. . This makes me ask the question; do people…
Know which battles to fight, and which battles to walk away from.
(1 minute and 13 second read) Knowing which battles to fight, is really knowing which battles to pick and which to walk away from. . If your response to all things is to fight, this is bad thinking, bad practice. After all, life isn’t measured by how many times you stood up to fight. ….
“How far does the way continue? How far can I go? What happens if I keep going? What did the generations of masters attain?”
(2 minute 5 second read) Karate-Do, the “way of the empty hand,” much more than the sum of its parts; a centuries-old tradition steeped in history, philosophy, and self-improvement. . Over generations, countless karate masters, including well-known figures such as Itosu, Higaonna, Funakoshi, Hanashiro, Kyan, Uechi, Miyagi, Toyama, Mabuni, Arakkaki, and many others, have dedicated…