Peaceful Warrior Karate

Wa Go Ken San Never Give Up!

June 2013

Inside this issue: Friendship Tourna1 ment Yoi No Kisin Coloring Fun 2 3

Congratulations To All Of Our Friendship Tournament Competitors and Champions!!!

Summer Schedule 4

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Yoi No Kisin
Muscles ache, joints stiffen, bruises throb.... Ah yes, I am reminded of the exertions of last weeks belt examination. The minor pains are replaced with pride. They become the physical reminder of my successful efforts. A fulfilling sensation that my body and mind are changing, because of the preparations I have been making and challenges I have faced. The knowledge that I am becoming honed in a way, which previously, I was not. Preparation has been the key. Not just in the seconds before a performance of kata or kumite, although that is certainly an important element, but through the weeks and months of laying the groundwork for advancement. As I recover from this most recent belt testing, every aching movement putting it fresh again on my mind I thought this would be the perfect time to initiate the series of articles on Kanchos Elements of Kata, as they have every bearing on the whole of ones karate, and can be useful lessons in life as well. You may have noticed in the dojo a few posters with the Japanese terminology for many of the strikes, blocks and stances we use. With them, is also a poster of what Kancho feels are the ten elements that must be born in mind to make kata meaningful. The first on our list is Yoi No Kisin: - The spirit of getting ready. The concentration of will and mind against the opponent as a preliminary to the movement of the kata. In talking to my son, and other students, I realize that we all prepare when we know a test is coming, cramming so to speak, working harder just before the testing to get ready. As in all aspects of life, however, that preparation needs to be continuous for it to be any good in the moment. The diligence of constantly rehearsing the movements, and honing your skill in order to sharpen your mind puts all that training into your memory banks, so it can be at the ready to call upon in a time of need. So for me, yoi no kisin doesnt start three seconds before the kata is performed, it starts in the weeks and months of continuous training and is tucked away where I can grab it quickly when asked to perform my best. It relies on the muscle memory so many repetitions have ingrained to allow me to move through the kata without actively thinking about each step: What is my next movement? Where do my hands and feet go? When do I kiai? Clearing my mind of these questions or conscious thoughts, so that I can focus on maintaining intensity of purpose as I defending against, and respond to, the attacks of my imaginary opponent. In this way the kata becomes alive rather than mechanical. Though the preparation and spirit of getting ready must start months ahead of time, that three seconds to clear your mind of all other concerns and stray thoughts is very important, and should not be ignored. It gives you the opportunity to ramp up your intensity and brings to life your eyes, as you gaze at an opponent that only exists in your mind. It generates the speed, force and timing appropriate for a very real display of karate spirit and skill. Spend the time preparing your body and mind, laying the groundwork, then clear your mind and let your imagination and intention bring your actions to life as you not only move through the kata, but live in the movements of each kata. Wago Ken San.... Lucas Terranova

Coloring Fun!

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Summer 2013 Class Schedules

Monday 9:3010:30 Dharma Combat Tuesday 9:3010:30 Dharma Combat Wednesday Thursday Friday 9:3010:30 ZMax Saturday 9:3010:30 ZMax

10:1511:00 Karate 57Yrs 10:4511:45 Karate 715Yrs 4:305:15 Karate 57yrs 5:156:15 Karate 715 5:306:30 Z Max 6:307:30 Adult Karate 5:306:30 Dharma 4:305:15 Karate 57yrs 5:156:15 Karate 715 6:307:30 Adult Karate

To keep the body in good health is a duty, otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear. (Buddha)

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Editor: Stephen J. Tresco, Sense