Cherish the Moment—Ichi-go Ichi-e!Ichi-go Ichi-e (一期一会) is a Japanese phrase often translated as “one time, one meeting” or “once in a lifetime.” It conveys the idea that each moment is unique and can never be repeated, so it should be treasured and appreciated … Continue reading
悟り (Satori) – Enlightenment
In the journey of karate, Satori—often translated as “enlightenment”—is not a sudden, magical moment of understanding but rather a gradual realization that unfolds through dedicated practice. It’s the point where mind, body, and spirit come into harmony, and movements no longer feel … Continue reading
Discipline of Kenwa Mabuni
The poem “Forget mundane things when striving for the martial isle… paddling is joy,” written by Master Kenwa Mabuni, perfectly encapsulates the martial arts experience. Master Mabuni’s reference to “joy in paddling” highlights a special form of fulfillment—the profound contentment that results … Continue reading
Loyalty (Chūgi 忠義)
In karate, Chūgi or loyalty goes beyond just being committed; it’s about having a deep respect for your dojo, your sensei, your fellow students, and the art itself. It means honoring the values and traditions that have been passed down through the … Continue reading
Integrity (Seigi 正義)
Seigi 正義 is commonly translated as “justice” or “righteousness.” Practicing karate with honesty and strong moral principles ensures that you stay true to the spirit of the art. In karate, Seigi means acting with justice and doing what’s right. It’s more than just … Continue reading
Courage (Yūki 勇気)
In karate, 勇気 (Yūki), or courage, is a guiding quality that shapes practitioners both physically and mentally. Courage in karate is about more than just bravery in facing an opponent; it also involves the internal strength to confront personal fears, limitations, and … Continue reading
Courteous (Teinei 丁寧)
Courtesy fosters harmony in the dojo and in life. Being polite, treating others kindly, and creating a positive training environment are all part of developing strong relationships and mutual respect in karate practice. In a karate dojo context, Teinei can … Continue reading
Nintai (忍耐)
“Perseverance” or “patience.” In karate, it refers to the ability to endure challenges and difficulties, whether in training, competitions, or personal growth. Nintai emphasizes mental strength, resilience, and the commitment to push through obstacles to achieve one’s goals.
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
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
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
The Journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step
“The Journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” ~ Lao Tzu
Karate (空手)
Karate (空手); Japanese pronunciation: [kaɾate] is a martial art developed in the Ryukyu Kingdom. It developed from the indigenous Ryukyuan martial arts (called te (手), “hand”; tii in Okinawan) under the influence of Chinese Martial Arts…
4 principles of Budo 武道の4つの原則
武道の4つの原則Budo no 4 gensoku From the Shitoryu Karatedo philosophies by Ryuso Kenwa Mabuni.4 Elements of Martial Arts 1- Ichi Gan: Vision or eye contact (eyes), footwork (legs), mind (spirit), and strength (muscles) are the four essential elements of martial arts. … Continue reading
Eight most important elements in Okinawan karate
沖縄空手の「八大要素」= Okinawa karate no 「Hachidai youso」 Meaning : Eight most important elements in Okinawan karate フェーサ 速さ= Feesa – Hayasa Meaning : Speed アティファ 破壊力 = Atifa – HakairyokuMeaning : Destructive force/power チンクチ 締め = Chinkuchi – ShimeMeaning : Tightening チュラサ 美しさ = Churasa – UtsukushisaMeaning … Continue reading
APUKO Referee Seminar 1990
Participation at the International Referee Seminar at the Asian Pacific Union of Karate-do Organizations, Jakarta, Indonesia July 1990.