Welcome

This blog introduces readers to the Zen roots of Japanese empty hand martial arts.

My goal is to help you elevate your Karate practice through a better understanding of Eastern thought. By using and practising in this way, you will learn how to unify the Body, Mind, and Spirit into a single, highly effective tool for self-defence and self-development.

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Our Origin Story in 3 Parts

For over 1,000 years, the Shaolin Temple was the preeminent martial arts school in Asia. As a Zen temple, their primary goal was for monks to train the Mind. Their unique approach was to use training the Body and Spirit as pathways to enhance training the Mind.

My blog’s origin story (below) is in 3 parts. In Part 1, I introduce you to a teen who needs a solution a common problem. In Part 2, the sensei explains the many advantages of a Mind first approach to training the martial arts. And, in Part 3, the Sensei explains how training the Mind is a complete path that takes you from beginner to master.

Please rate my stories and leave a comment when you are done. And, please share my blog with others.

Enjoy.

Zensei

Karate teacher

When the Student is Ready

In Part-1 of this blog’s origin story, a bullied teen named Elliott stumbles upon an unusual karate dojo, and meets the Sensei who tests him for admission into his dojo.

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Karate class sitting

The Way of Shaolin

In Part-2 of this blog’s origin story we learn that all Karate students train their body. But, to become really proficient, you must also train your mind and spirit. In this post Sensei Mike explains the mind first approach to training.

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man meditating small

The Secret to Self-Defence

In Part-3 of this blog’s origin story, the Sensei explains the basic techniques of Training the Mind. He then explains how to unify Mind, Body and Spirit training into a highly effective tool for self-defence and self development.

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Other Posts About Zen and the Martial Arts

Many questions about the martial arts, that seem intractable, can be answered through eastern wisdom. Below are additional posts where Sensei Mike demystifies and explains martial arts concepts through Zen.

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The Way of Shaolin meditation training

The Way of Shaolin

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All Karate train their body. But, to become really proficient, you must also train your…
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