We often say, in traditional martial arts circles, the phenomenon of how a black belt, after years of use, becomes white again symbolizes how a black belt needs to keep the beginner’s mind, otherwise named mushin (無心). I, for one, have a bit of difficulty accepting this definition, and a meaning to a completely natural…
You can increase your own mental strength and self confidence by doing something hard. This is a common advice from self-help gurus and lifestyle coaches, even in parenting books. One thing I feel is missing in this advice is that this “something hard” should be just outside your comfort zone and not completely beyond. If…
I told my 8-yr old kid this the other day. He looked at me like I was crazy. I guess such statements don’t increase my credibility in his eyes of being a sane adult. Nevertheless, as martial artists, we are generally known to the general public as violent individuals. Nothing can be further from the…
“Giving the reason why” is probably the most difficult thing for me to do and it might have to do with my wiring. I’m not the type of person to ask why. If I’m asked to do something, I – generally – just do it. Unless some bells start to ring. This is when I…