‘Fudoshin’ (不動心) is a term used in the martial arts to describe a state of mind that translates to “immovable mind” or “unshakable spirit.” It is a mental state that is characterized by an unwavering determination to achieve a goal, regardless of the obstacles that may arise. . Fudoshin is not only important in martial…
Tag: Masters
Kata is a fundamental component of traditional martial arts.
Kata is a fundamental component of traditional martial arts. . However, in recent years, there has been a growing trend among some practitioners to ignore kata, or at least consider it of low importance compared to other aspects of the art. . It is my belief that this trend is due to several reasons, which…
“In a real fight, one should seek to strike the head as this is the most effective.”
If your martial arts are studied in a similar way to its original form, a self-defense system, then targeting the most vulnerable body area when a physical confrontation is unavoidable, should be highly considered. . Perhaps a fit, young, athletic tournament or dojo fighter could survive a real life continuous, sport like encounter, but in…
“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…
“Many Karate teachers teach a watered down style – no hip action and no depth of punching – so it is easy to say that these teachers have no depth to their knowledge.”
The proverb “Teachers open the door, but you must enter by yourself”, is a powerful reminder of the role that teachers play in our lives. Teachers are there to provide us with knowledge, guidance, and support, but ultimately, it is up to you to take responsibility for your own learning and growth. . In today’s…
“The meaning of the directions in kata is not well understood, and frequently mistakes are made in the interpretation of kata movements.”
Enbusen (演武線 – embusen) is a term commonly used in the martial arts world. In its simplest form it refers to the pattern or shape of the movements that make up a particular kata. . The enbusen of a kata is an important aspect of its execution, as it provides a visual representation of the…
“I can see my strengths and weaknesses, and i’m not afraid to face my weaknesses.”
Growth in the martial arts comes through repetitive daily practice and studying at every opportunity. Today, society finds repetition boring and stifling. The self-discipline of repetition is at the heart of the martial arts. Through repetition, you can quiet the inner dialogue between the ego and the over-thinking mind. . Everything is a test….. and…
What makes one person commit their life toward a specific goal, while another person quickly gives up pursuing a goal the first moment they experience adversity? . In the martial arts, what makes one practitioner continue to persevere against all odds, while another quits the moment he/she begins to feel pain and discomfort? Why do…
“You think it’ll last forever, people and cars and concrete, but it won’t. One day it’s all gone. Even the sky”.
“You think it’ll last forever, people and cars and concrete, but it won’t. One day it’s all gone. Even the sky”. . Time does not care about anything but moving forward. What do the martial arts offer the aging student? . Young practitioners mostly see karate, or the martial arts in general, as something I…
“If one trains diligently every day, then in three or four years one will come to understand karate.”
Losing interest in your martial arts training will happen to everyone at some point, and of course there are various reasons why this can happen. . I have seen this so many times. How often have you heard; “I used to do karate”? The decision to stop is made in a second, and the sad…
When was the last time you just listened to someone? I’m talking about just taking in the words that are being said, and allowing it to settle into your mind….. Forget about a response.
Sometimes it’s good to just shut up and listen….. When was the last time you just listened to someone? I’m talking about just taking in the words that are being said, and allowing it to settle into your mind….. Forget about a response. . A good listener, listens slowly to what is being said, doesn’t…
“There are no styles of karate-do, just varying interpretations of its principles.”
Talk to anyone about the martial arts and it is very likely that they will ask you, “what style do you practice?”. . How did all these various styles come into existence? Are they really that important? Should the existing styles be preserved? . It’s often stated that as you gain experience over the years…