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
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
Expert technique takes time.
A green belt student asked me for advice on his side kick the other day. He expressed disappointment when I told him that his side kick was fine. “But it doesn’t snap and sometimes I lose balance. Your kick is
The monk who can be cut into 10 pieces.
I was browsing through some old notes and found this story. I heard Master Chang recount it about 20 years ago! I would love to hear what it means to you… The Monk who can be cut into 10 Pieces
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
Why must I accept with two hands?
As the Rank Test results arrived at the weekend, I have spent the week handing out new belts. It’s so wonderful to see all the new colours… Before conducting the presentations I always explain the process: When your name is
Don’t be weird.
At the end of his last Ki Seminar here in London, Master Chang said with a wry smile… “Don’t be weird”. He says they try to meditate at home when the children are playing. “Be quiet, stop playing, can’t you