My understanding of Ryu (流) and Ha (破). Is the interplay between flow and breaking away from tradition reflects a dynamic balance. It emphasizes the importance of being grounded in one’s origins while simultaneously evolving and adapting to new contexts. This duality encourages innovation that respects and honors the past while fostering relevance in the READ MORE The post The Paradox of RyuHa 流破 first appeared on Northern Karate Schools ..read more

Seishinkan is a multifaceted system that encompasses two fundamental elements: the Skills of Self Protection (referred to as Jitsu) and the Skills of Self Improvement (known as Doh). Unlike a conventional martial arts style, which often adheres to rigid forms, Seishinkan represents a philosophy that is continuously evolving, adapting to contemporary needs while still paying READ MORE The post What is Seishinkan 聖心館? first appeared on Northern Karate Schools ..read more

Being invited to participate in a documentary film, especially at a significant martial art national event in Ottawa, is quite an honor. Engaging in discussions about various concepts of martial arts with fellow enthusiasts and experts offers a unique platform to share our perspectives and insights. The last question posed, gave a me a reason READ MORE The post The Difference between Zen Shin and Zan Shin 残心 first appeared on Northern Karate Schools ..read more

“Satisfaction lies in the effort, not in the attainment, full effort is full victory.” ~ Mahatma Gandhi Looking deeper into the concept of mushotoku reveals its multifaceted nature and its relevance not only in martial arts but also in broader life contexts. The term itself can be translated as “no gain” or “without profit,” encapsulating READ MORE The post Mushotoku無所得 or Effort without Seeking Reward first appeared on Northern Karate Schools ..read more

To effectively use Maslow’s hierarchy of needs and keep students for life, consider the following steps: 1. Physiological Needs: Ensure that students’ basic physiological needs are met. This includes providing a safe and clean learning environment, and opportunities for physical activity coupled with mental and spiritual development. Elements of meditation and self-reflection like Mokuso and READ MORE The post Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs; As a Retention Tool for Martial Arts first appeared on Northern Karate Schools ..read more

On creating the statue of David; ‘I saw the angel in the marble and carved until I set him free.’ ~ Michelangelo di Lodovico Buonarroti Simoni. This reflection on Michelangelo’s process beautifully illustrates the idea of discovery true reality through subtraction. Just as he removed excess marble to unveil David, we often need to strip READ MORE The post Kensho…見性, Attaining One’s True Nature first appeared on Northern Karate Schools ..read more

The terms “heretic” and “outlier” both refer to individuals or ideas that deviate from the norm, but they carry different connotations and implications. A Heretic is someone who holds beliefs or opinions that are contrary to established doctrines and norms. Their actions and words might appear aggressive and controversial to followers of well established traditions, READ MORE The post Martial Art heretic or an outlier. first appeared on Northern Karate Schools ..read more

The Dunning-Kruger effect is a cognitive bias that was first described by Justin Kruger and David Dunning in 1999. It refers to the tendency of people with limited competence in a particular domain to overestimate their abilities in that domain. In other words, individuals who lack knowledge or skill in a specific area often mistakenly believe that they are more competent than they actually are. This effect can be observed across various fields, including martial arts. In the context of martial arts, mediocre practitioners may exhibit an inflated opinion of their skills due to several factors ..read more

The Japanese expression “Oubaitori” beautifully captures the essence of individual growth and personal development. Derived from the kanji characters for the four trees that bloom in spring – cherry blossoms, plum, peach, and apricot – this idiom conveys the idea that each flower blooms in its own time, symbolizing the uniqueness and diversity of human progress. In Japan, the blooming of cherry blossoms, plum blossoms, peach blossoms, and apricot blossoms holds great cultural significance. These delicate flowers mark spring’s arrival and represent life’s transient and ephemeral nature. Each tr ..read more

The title of “karate sensei” is not simply bestowed upon anyone who practices karate. It is a title that is earned through years of dedication, expertise, and exceptional teaching abilities. The word “sensei” (先生) has its origins in the Chinese language. In Chinese, the term “xiansheng” (先生) is used to refer to a teacher or a person of authority. The word “sensei” was introduced to the Japanese language during the 7th century when Japan adopted Chinese characters, known as kanji, as a writing system. The characters 先生 were used to represent the Chinese term “xiansheng” and are pronou ..read more