Category: Northern Karate Schools

With its origins tracing back to ancient times, martial arts were developed in order to protect oneself and others from harm. Bunbu Ryodo was an idea that loosely emerged in the Middle Ages of Japan. Largely borrowed from the ancient Chinese concept of warrior scholar. An individual who possessed knowledge of combat and general...

To the followers of Tao, the concepts of WuWei might mean ‘non-doing’ or ‘not-acting’. On a cursory look, it might appear as an invitation to relax or worse, fall into laziness or apathy. To lag behind. However, in the practice of Budo WuWei 無為is paired with Shisen 自然 or naturalness. It combines into a...

Mental preparation allows the martial athlete to ‘quiet the mind’ from worldly distractions. It also allows the individual to be fully present without the impediments of falsely projected needs, desires and fears. Most followers of the traditional path of Budo and Bugei are familiar with the concept of Mokuso. It’s made up of two...

Ikigai Follow your passion. Life is about living, not surviving. What’s that something special you that aligns your needs with wants? That ‘something’ that would make you jump out of bed in the morning, with a smile on your face. Passion is energy. Focus on the positive energy that fuels you. Change your thought...

It’s easy to make something out of something, but make something out of ‘nothing’… then you’re a true sensei. The Statue of David was originally commissioned in 1464 by the Opera del Duomo, as part of a series of large statues for the Florence Cathedral. These were meant to be sculpted on the ground,...

Phoenix rising, the reconstruction of Shuri castle. The highest point of Shuri elevation holds historical significance for the Ryukyu Kingdom, and indeed modern day Okinawa. The location was first seized upon as an ideal strategic location by regional warlord Shun Bajunki, in early 13th century. It should be noted that it was Urasoe that...

As a former internationally ranked competitor, I understand the benefits tournaments provide. Sport karate can help us prepare for life as we develop discipline, confidence, and resilience, and recognize the importance of time management, goal setting, individual achievement, teamwork and a positive mindset. Competition, however, is often a double-edged sword. Winning feeds the ego,...

The kanji character 祖 “so” means ancestor, pioneer, founder, innovator, and grandparent. If you’re of Asian origin or have Asian friends of a certain age, you will hear them say “our ancestors are always with us.” We owe a debt of gratitude to blood relations who gave us our DNA and characteristics. Great, good...

Legend* tells us that Kensei 剣聖 or sword saint (honorary title given to a warrior of legendary skill in swordsmanship) Tsukahara Bokuden (1489-1571) was crossing Lake Biwa in a small boat (maruko-bune 丸子船) crowded with fellow passengers. Bokuden a swordsman of incredible renown, always kept to himself. Yet his reputation of being a founder...

The concept is simple: if you are using a dojo, equipment, or use any adjacent areas, (yes washrooms) it is your duty and responsibility to ensure that you leave that space clean. It helps people to learn the importance of cleanliness – an important life skill that millions haven’t mastered around the world! Karate...