温故知新 Literally meaning “learning from the past to gain new insights,” it suggests that by studying and understanding the wisdom of the past, one can develop fresh perspectives and ideas for the present and future. In other words, “reviewing the old … Continue reading
Shichi ten hakki (七転八起)
The concept of Shichi ten hakki (or Nana korobi ya oki) is a Japanese proverb that translates to “fall seven times, stand up eight.” It represents resilience, perseverance, and the indomitable spirit that encourages individuals to keep moving forward despite … Continue reading
Sanzan (three mountains 三山)
“Sanzan (three mountains 三山) focusing on and emphasizing three major components in Karate: hardness (Go 剛), softness(Ju 柔), and fastness (Soku 速). Sanzan is centered on these three key elements in Karate.” Hardness (Go 剛) refers to the strong, rigid, … Continue reading
Naha-te (那覇手)
Naha-te (那覇手Okinawan: Naafa-dii) Nahate originating in the city of Naha in Okinawa, Naha-te is one of the three major systems of Okinawan Karate (Okinawa-te), alongside Shuri-te and Tomari-te. While these systems share common roots, Naha-te distinguishes itself through its emphasis … Continue reading
“Kara” (空)
The concept of “Kara” (空) or emptiness, holds significant philosophical and cultural importance in various contexts, particularly within Japanese Buddhism and traditional arts. Here’s a detailed exploration: Philosophical Significance: Buddhist Perspective: In Buddhist philosophy, “kara” represents the concept of emptiness … Continue reading
Etiquette and Respect (Rei 礼)
REI (礼) One of the most important things in Martial Arts is the Bow as you need to show Respect, especially when you enter the Dojo or when you encounter others before you begin. Always Bow to your Sensei! The … Continue reading
Kaizen 改善
“Kaizen 改善” In the Japanese language the word Kaizen is derived from two Kanji, the first ‘Kai’ 改, meaning ‘change,’ and the second ‘zen’ 善, meaning ‘good. ‘ Hence the literal meaning of the word being ‘change for the better’ … Continue reading
Senshin (先心)
Senshin (先心), can be translated as “compassionate heart” or “mind of compassion.” Also means “purified spirit or enlightened mind”. In the context of martial arts, Senshin represents a mindset that combines strength and skill with a deep sense of compassion and … Continue reading
Fudoshin (不動心)
Fudoshin (不動心), fudoshin can be translated as “immovable mind” or “unshakable heart.” This concept has its roots in martial arts philosophy, particularly in the samurai tradition. Fudoshin is characterized by a mental and emotional state of perseverance, calmness, and resilience, even … Continue reading
Mushin 無心
Mushin (無心), Mushin is often translated as “no-mind or empty mind” or “mind without mind .” Through this stage and mindset, you will learn how to not let thoughts and emotions cloud your judgement or actions. It is a state where … Continue reading
Shoshin (初心)
Shoshin (初心) The first kanji character, 初, is begin. The second kanji, 心, means heart (mind). When two characters are combined, it is literally translated as “beginner’s heart” or generally translated as “beginner’s mind.” This refers to the kind of attitude … Continue reading
Zanshin (残心)
Zanshin (残心) First kanji 残 means remain or attach. Second kanji 心 means heart or mind. When two characters are combined, it is generally translated as “lingering mind.” Zanshin refers to a mental and physical state of attentiveness, awareness, and … Continue reading
Shin Gi Tai 心技体
心 = SHIN heart, mind, mindset, spirit技 = GI skill, art, craft, ability, technique体 = TAI body, physical, substance, object SHINGITAI = is a principle that defines the complete Karateka. It describes a delicate balance between Mind, Technique and Body. … Continue reading
Philosphy behind candle blowing with karate punch
The philosophy behind blowing out a candle with a karate punch is rooted in the principles of Karatedo, such as discipline, focus, and control. In martial arts, practitioners strive for perfection in their technique, and the act of blowing out … Continue reading
Tenugui (手拭い)
A Tenugui (手拭い) is a thin Japanese hand towel made of cotton. It’s usually around 3 feet (90 cm), plain-woven and is sometimes dyed with some pattern. It can be used for virtually anything, as a washcloth, dishcloth, but often as a headband, souvenir, decoration, or for wrapping items … Continue reading
Damatte Keiko 黙って稽古
“Damatte Keiko” is a Japanese phrase that translates to “Quiet Practice” or “Silent Training”. It is a concept that emphasizes the importance of focusing on the task and avoiding unnecessary distractions or chatter. In traditional Japanese martial arts, such as … Continue reading
Sanchin – Abdominal Breathing – Core and Tanden
Sanchin – Abdominal Breathing – Core and Tanden “In Karate, Seika Tanden or using Hara is literally bracing your core or creating IAP (Interabdominal Pressure).”
Mitsu no sen, “三 つの 先” (three initiatives)
Mitsu no sen, “三 つの 先” (three initiatives) refers to the three ways or timing in which we can disrupt our opponent and create an opening and/or opportunity to strike or attack or respond or react to our opponent’s intentions. … Continue reading
Go no Sen, 後の先 (post-initiative)
After the attack, block/evade and counterattack. The ‘Go’ (後) in ‘Go no sen’ means ‘after’. Quite literally, immediately after you’ve been attacked, let’s say with a punch, or indeed a flurry of punches – which you have effectively blocked/evaded – … Continue reading