I like the occasional cappuccino; I frequent a few cafes, but there is definitely one that I prefer. If you asked me why this cappuccino in particular, I’m not sure that I could answer you. Strong, but not too strong,
From stress to personality trait.
I read somewhere that 70% of people who show up at hospital have a stress related disorder. That’s huge – our stress level is something we should take notice of! One could say that stress is our reaction to the
Changing ourselves first.
Students often tell me that as they progress in Hapkido other parts of their lives also seems to move forward, to improve… like somehow things are linked… The following is an epitaph from an anonymous Anglican bishop who was buried
What happens on the mat…
What is the single biggest factor that will affect your Hapkido? Your mind. If you are upset, carried away, scattered, preoccupied…your Hapkido will be poor. If you are relaxed, focused, attentive, calm…your Hapkido will be good and your ki will
Special conditions.
I read a definition of meditation a few years ago. “To see our original nature and not become confused”. I’ve always loved that quote. In our Hapkido training, and meditation practice, Master Chang often says that we should, ‘surrender our
Boredom vs. concentration in sparring.
Recently, a lower belt student told me that when he spars with more junior belts he is often afraid of hitting them. He also disclosed that he gets bored sparring with the junior or less ‘able’ students. My response to
In front of your eyes.
I was on the tube on the way to class the other night, and sat right next to me was a business man. He had his briefcase open and was reading a report and scribbling changes and notes at the
Calming the mental clatter.
In Ki Class we often start with moving meditation. Sure, it helps strengthen and stretch us, but probably the main benefit we get is that it helps us to start to concentrate – to calm that mental clatter. Some people
Thoughts on perfectionism.
I shared the following story in class this week, dedicated to all the perfectionists we have amongst us. A monk was tendering the garden making it perfect. Japanese gardens are always just so. They have perfectly raked sand and pots
Who is the bow for?
Most of the time, when I enter the gym, I will look directly at the students who have congregated outside the studio. Naturally they bow, “hello Saboumnim”. Occasionally I will overt my eyes. My peripheral vision sometimes allows me to