Mind, Body, and Spirit in the Martial Arts
It's impossible to completely separate the elements of mind, body, and spirit because we as human beings need the mix of the three to...
Leaders
To lead people, walk behind them. Lao Tzu
To maintain order in the smooth and efficient functioning of civilized society, it is preferable for one...
Governmental Attempts To Regulate Martial Arts
"Whether prompted by concerns of consumer protection, or opinions regarding instructor competency, governmental attempts to regulate martial arts are increasing.
A.T.A.M.A. believes that the issue...
Reflections On Martial Arts Studies
Introduction
While talking with two of my newest students a few years ago, I discussed with them various experiences I’d had throughout my years in...
What’s Next . . . The State of Isshinryu After Don Nagle’s Death
This letter is to all Isshinryu Karate-Ka and Martial Artists from Sensei Ed McGrath, Ju Dan, Hanshi Go.
I am sure that you are all aware,...
Martial Arts and Christian Beliefs, Are They Incompatible?
As a Christian martial artist, I am often asked two questions regarding my martial arts study and my faith. From non-believers (those who do...
Shan Monks in Exile: Seeking Basic Human Freedoms
The young Shan monk told me that the first time he came to Thailand he came illegally, to study Pali, the ancient Buddhist script....
The Tao in Jujitsu
What is the Tao?
Master Okazaki wrote in his Esoteric Principles "...To perfect one's character one must be grateful for the abundant blessings of Heaven,...
Martial Arts Myths
The martial arts myths that really irritate me the most revolve around fighting and self-defense, and students regularly ask me about these. I've listed...
Loyalty to the Nation
“I shall have loyalty to the Nation, Sir!”
It is how every martial arts class begins, when you train in Tae Kwon Do. We do...
Draw Him A Cat
A rich man, fond of felines, asked a famous Zen ink painter to draw him a cat. The master agreed and asked the man...
Balance and Discipline
You can never be too rich or to thin.
We’ve all heard that old saying before. Of course, it’s a ridiculous thing to say. There’s...
Keyboard Kumite: The Act of Cyber Bullying
These days I am seeing a new type of bully. They're called cyber bullies. I consider them bullies of the first magnitude. Over the...
Spiritual Aspects of Martial Arts
There are many aspects to the martial arts. Most people think in terms of the self defense and combative disciplines when they think of...
You give your opponent an idea what to expect.
I tried some iron palm training back in the day with my praying mantis (kung fu) instructor at the time. He didn’t go in...
Eastern Martial Arts Study vs Western Religion
As a Christian and a martial artist, I am intimately familiar with the tension that exists between Eastern martial arts study and Western religion....
