Those of us that study pragmatic karate, will always tell you that the karate we practice is for use against “civilian attacks”…. the reason karate was created. That our combative skills are for use against a thug, “ruffian or villain” (Ankoh Itosu precept quote). Someone who is untrained in the martial arts. . But these…
Tag: Mind
I hate teaching!
“Teaching is far from perfect. It’s messy, and in that mess is where you’ll craft your teaching and truly enjoy the journey.” – Lisa Dabbs . I hate teaching! . Not everyone is well suited to a position as an instructor or teacher. As you climb higher in grade it is expected of you to…
There is more than one way.
In the martial arts everyone has an opinion, whether that person is knowledgeable or not. The problem these days is that everyone believes what they read and watch on social media, instead of thinking for themselves. . But sometimes you read an article or watch a video that contains new, controversial, or subjective information, and…
Always willing to learn.
Why are people so afraid of learning something new or different? Even if you have been doing something for years one particular way, there may be a different way, or a better way. Wouldn’t that be interesting and great to know and learn? Why are you so adamant that there is only the way you…
Karate is a mess.
Karate is a mess. . Even today in the 21st century people still refute what karate is, and sometimes what it isn’t. The majority of modern karate is plagued by dogma. No one seems to know what they are training for and in which context. . Practitioners cling to other people’s ideas with almost religious-like…
“If there is no kata, it is not karate-do, just kicking and punching.”
The practice and purpose of kata in the martial arts is being debated (ad nauseam) once again. Do you believe that kata is the foundation of karate, or do you believe kata is an outdated method of practice that is not relevant today? . “[..] If there is no kata, it is not karate-do, just…
“For me the martial arts is a search for something inside.”
“For me the martial arts is a search for something inside. It’s not just a physical discipline.” – Brandon Lee . Loyalty is a very important aspect in any relationship, but especially so in the martial arts between a student, their instructor, and their dojo. . Being a loyal person means that you keep your…
Does karate improve your character?
Does a change of character begin when we commence karate training? Does karate improve your character? . Character traits can be built, forged, and altered with a sufficient amount of effort and willpower. The benefits of character building largely depend on your personal values and goals. . However, ultimately, the most important question is how…
I maybe wrong!
Are you awesome? An amazing “sensei”. Beyond reproach? Just amazing at everything you do? Always correcting others but not yourself?…… Oh dear, guess what?…. We have some bad news for you. . There is, of course, a dangerous line between self-confidence and arrogance – a line to which some people are totally oblivious. . The…
“Self-praise and over-confidence is a sickness that corrupts training.”
“Self-praise and over-confidence is a sickness that corrupts training.” – Hohan Sōken (1889-1982) Matsumura Seito Shōrin-ryū Are you consumed by the desire to want other people’s grade or title? . Comparing yourself to people around you is a trap you can easily fall into. But, trying to get ahead, or measuring your success in karate…
“We must think on how to preserve the original karate.”
“I want the students to understand the importance of what they are learning….we must think on how to preserve the original karate not only with words but with a sound philosophy behind it.” – Toshimitsu Arakaki 10th-dan Matsubayashi-ryu . Why is it important to save a martial arts cultural heritage or tradition? . To different…
“Any martial art without proper training of the mind turns into beastly behavior.”
“Karate-do is definitely a martial way, and its identity lies in ‘do’ or principles. Any martial art without proper training of the mind turns into beastly behavior.” – Shoshin Nagamine (1907-1997) . The limit is not in the sky. The limit is the mind. . It’s worth remembering when you’re practicing something new or different,…