Atlanta Genbu-Kai

Fudoshin - Immovable mind - this, to me, has two meanings. First, it is discipline and dedication to a goal. An immovable spirit is one that doesn’t give up in the face of difficulties. Second, it is a calm spirit that doesn’t show excess emotion. This means to stay calm and focused, whether in victory or defeat.

Shoshin - Beginner’s Mind - This is a state or mind that, even as one advances in one’s practice, it is important to remember that there is always something more to learn. Just as a full cup cannot accept any more water, someone that thinks they know everything cannot learn anything new. Always remember you beginner’s spirit!

Mushin - no mind - this is a state of mind that doesn’t focus on any one thing, but allows one to take in everything around. As martial artist, it is important not to have tunnel vision, but to see the whole field of battle. This can be literal, as in a self-defense situation, or figurative, as we approach and overcome the challenges in our lives.

Zanshin - remaining mind - continuing to hold focus even after the apparent threat has passed. One of five mindsets that are part of training. This focus is part of both kata and kumite training. As a part of kumite, one must be aware of their opponent even after scoring during a match. As a part of kata, we stay engaged in the kata even as we come back from the last technique.

Fudoshin - Immovable mind - this, to me, has two meanings. First, it is discipline and dedication to a goal. An immovable spirit is one that doesn’t give up in the face of difficulties. Second, it is a calm spirit that doesn’t show excess emotion. This means to stay calm and focused, whether in victory or defeat.

Shoshin - Beginner’s Mind - This is a state or mind that, even as one advances in one’s practice, it is important to remember that there is always something more to learn. Just as a full cup cannot accept any more water, someone that thinks they know everything cannot learn anything new. Always remember you beginner’s spirit!

Mushin - no mind - this is a state of mind that doesn’t focus on any one thing, but allows one to take in everything around. As martial artist, it is important not to have tunnel vision, but to see the whole field of battle. This can be literal, as in a self-defense situation, or figurative, as we approach and overcome the challenges in our lives.

Zanshin - remaining mind - continuing to hold focus even after the apparent threat has passed. One of five mindsets that are part of training. This focus is part of both kata and kumite training. As a part of kumite, one must be aware of their opponent even after scoring during a match. As a part of kata, we stay engaged in the kata even as we come back from the last technique.

Further progress ... test run of the new tatami.

Dojo in progress ... stay tuned for updates!

Our first virtual kata challenge is underway! Students can participate by submitting video of their kata to compete with students from Genbu-Kai dojos in New Jersey and New York. Please let me know if there any questions.

Atlanta families, be sure to join the home training group to get access to supplemental conditioning and technical resources.

Over the years, Demura Sensei has given gifts of Japanese calligraphy to people that volunteer at his tournament in California. They typically are important philosophies and sayings from Japanese and karate culture. As we keep working through these tough times, it’s important to keep a few of those principles in mind.

Whether your goal is high level kumite or not, sempai Brian has some really good drills for improving speed here. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=b0N6vcEL8Rs&feature=youtu.be

And what Sensei said after kyu-testing demonstration...