So consider this – Bodhidharma, the sixth century Indian priest who brought Buddhism, healing methods and unparalleled martial arts to China, spent nine years facing a cave wall in meditation. He stared at point so intently, that large whole was burnt into the rock. Yet furious with his inability to stay awake, he is said to have ripped off his eyelids. On falling to the ground, they became tea plants. So if you’re waiting for your chai latte with tapioca bubbles, take a bow of gratitude to Damo (or is it Tatmo?) aka Bodhidharma, aka blue eyed stranger. We know that this story is an allegory n ..read more

Is there a connection between ‘Okinawa diet’ and regular karate practice? Higaonna Kanryo, born in 1853. He played a significant role in the development and popularity of karate, leaving a lasting legacy until his passing in 1916. Funakoshi Gichin, the revered founder of Shotokan Karate, graced this world with his presence for an impressive span of 88 years. Throughout his long and illustrious life, he too left an indelible mark on the martial arts community, shaping the course of karate as we know it today. Both remained healthy, clear minded and active in their golden years. The Okinawan die ..read more

A resounding Yes. Karate is even more relevant after 100 years after ‘official’ introduction. While karate has a long history in Okinawa, it was the introduction of karate to the mainland of Japan by Funakoshi Gichin in the 1920s that brought it to the attention of the wider world. Funakoshi, often referred to as the “Father of Modern Karate,” was a prominent Okinawan karate master who sought to spread the art beyond Okinawa. In 1922, Funakoshi was invited to demonstrate karate at the First National Athletic Exhibition in Tokyo, which was a significant event in promoting martial arts in Japan ..read more

Prior to the arrival of Korean martial artists, the use of the title “master” was not prevalent in North America. Japanese martial arts, which had a significant influence on the development of martial arts in the region, that commonly used the term “sensei” to denote seniority and expertise. However, as martial arts spread and evolved in North America, there has been a cross-pollination of different styles and traditions. Boundaries between different martial arts systems have become blurred, and practitioners from various backgrounds have come together to share their knowledge and experiences ..read more

Kata (型 or 形) with its structured sequences of movements and techniques, acts as a vessel that encapsulates the essence of ancient martial art masters. Within the intricate choreography lie the profound martial insights and teachings of these revered figures, passed down through generations as a testament to their expertise and knowledge. By engaging in the practice of kata, martial artists embark on a journey that transcends time, traversing the realms of tradition and heritage. Every kata holds a unique story, a narrative that reflects the experiences and philosophical underpinning ..read more

The inaugural Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) event, held on November 12, 1993, at the McNichols Sports Arena in Denver, Colorado, marked the beginning of a new era in combat sports. The tournament-style event aimed to determine the most effective martial art by pitting practitioners of different disciplines against each other in no-holds-barred fights. One of the memorable moments of that first UFC event was a match between a “sumo” wrestler and an aging Kyokushinkai black belt. The sumo wrestler, Teila Tuli, stepped into the Octagon with his formidable size and strength, while the karat ..read more

Japanese and now worldwide popular art, books, and cinema often explore themes related to the samurai spirit. Movies like Seven Samurai, Yojimbo, Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai, Kill Bill and countless others struck box office gold. Books like Bushido: The Soul of Japan by Inazō Nitobe, Hagakure by Yamamoto Tsunetomo and the vastly popular novel Musashi, created a prism through which we view the samurai world. These stories of honor, loyalty, sacrifice, and the pursuit of justice continue to captivate audiences and serve as reminders of the enduring legacy of the samurai. In the modern dojo ..read more

Many modern martial arts techniques and principles have their origins in ancient battlefield combat. While the context and purpose may have changed, the fighting spirit and dedication to gaining victory remain constant. To secure victory in combat, there are several strategies and tactics that can be employed. Here are a few key principles to consider: 1. Preparation: Adequate preparation is vital. This includes training, physical fitness, and equipping oneself with the necessary resources, knowledge and above all empirical experience. 2. Strategy: Develop a clear strategy and plan of action ..read more

Obsessed by a fairy tale, we spend our lives searching for a magic door and a lost kingdom. ~ Eugene O’Neill In ancient times, Japanese martial art practitioners sought not only to develop their physical prowess but also to cultivate a strong mind and spirit. They believed that enduring physical hardships and testing their resolve in extreme conditions were integral to their personal growth and spiritual development. One of the most well-known practices was the act of standing under near-freezing waterfalls, known as “misogi.” This practice involved immersing oneself in the icy water, often se ..read more

The old and new ways of learning can vary depending on the specific discipline, system, style and context. However, here are some general differences between the traditional (Dento) or old way of practice and the more modern (Gendai) approaches: Old Way of learning; 1. Repetitive drills: In the old way of practice, there was often a heavy emphasis on repetitive drills and exercises. These drills were designed to build muscle memory and reinforce specific techniques or skills. Every class resembled the previous. 2. Isolated practice: Practice sessions were often focused on isolated skills or co ..read more