One kind word can warm three winter months.

One kind word can warm three winter months.

During the start of the winter months, I have often noticed that the colder weather and radical change in climate can have a negative effect on the mind and body. Frequently there is a trend that people want to stay indoors cut themselves off from others and not venture outside. This is why members of our school need to be very cognicent of their physical, mental health and overall attitude. We need to be cognicent of our levels of rest and maintain a proper balanced diet as we are continually tested in these areas during the winter months.

Remember coming to class should be an enlightening experience for both the body and the mind. It is easy to become lazy and not put forth effort to venture out into the cold when conditions are difficult. The practice of Karate is one of the best ways a person can improve their physical, spiritual and psychological state. Karate practice will make you feel better.

We must sweep from our minds all egocentric and pre-occupying thoughts during our practice, concentrating on all the movements with maximum energy and intent. This is why we meditate before class begins. This time is set to allow the mind and body to transition into a state of harmony and peace. We need to leave all of the negativity at the door when we enter the dojo and connect with ourselves and our surrounding environment. When this is done, karate ultimately produces in the individual vital concentration of KI energy that can expand to heroic proportions during times of crises.

Karate requires a harmony between breath and action. Therefore, we must learn to adjust our breathing until we reach the point where each breath coincides with each of the movements during practice. This can help to direct the flow of energy through body to produce maximum results. Breathing and movement go hand in hand. Be cognicent of breathing during kata practice as it is just as an essential part of the kata as either form or technique.

Improvement comes with continual practice and constant effort. There is always room for improvement at any level. We must not falter and give up on challenges that are presented to us. Overcoming these obstacles can make us stronger and better students. It is easy to let our guard down and not try hard. We need to be patient and let our bodies and minds connect. Some of the methods that we practice may appear redundant but are designed in a way so that they become engrained. Just keep practicing. The study of Karate is an ongoing process that ultimately takes a great deal of time to learn and absorb.

Please look to students in need of help and support during this time of year. For some the holiday season is a difficult time for many people and we should be cognicent of others in need. Give what you can when you can in both our dojo community and outside. Every little bit helps. I have a great deal of faith in our school and our student body that we empower ourselves and grow as a dojo community in the upcoming year.

Make an effort to better yourself and those around you. Be aware of your health and state of mind. I wish the best to all and thank you for taking the time to read our newsletter and benefit from what it has to offer. May the upcoming season be fruitful and beneficial to all and be the best you can be. There is an old Japanese proverb which states, “One kind word can warm three winter months.”