Traditional Karate Do

Often, individuals base their perceptions of karate upon images conveyed through the popular culture and media (movies, etc).  These media-influenced perceptions, however, represent a false understanding that does little to shed light on the true spirit and nature of this traditional cultural art form.  Unlike the flashy and violent martial art of the movies, traditional karate is pure, simple and austere.  Central to karate-do, is the development of a calm spirit, and harmony with one's surroundings.  In addition, dignity, resolve and self-control are just as much a part of the training as punching and kicking.  Therefore, karate-do is a martial art designed to develop character through training, so that the student can surmount any obstacle tangible or intangible.

The beauty of karate practice can only truly be discovered through training.  It is the training practice that serves as a model and metaphor for approaching life and coming to terms with ones own humanity.  At the heart of the practice is the individual, self-reliant and unique and it is this potential that becomes focused and applied to resolving the conflicts of life.  Central in the practice is the concept that truth, insight and realization are in fact simple and already present.  It is the training process that helps to put aside all that is superfluous in order to perceive those truths clearly.  Basic technique therefore, is the heart of karate-do practice.  Through dedicated training the essential truth of movement can be discovered.  But what is most important, and beyond technique is the approach that is being refined to resolving that conflict, an approach that can now find application in life. 

As a physical exercise, Karate-do leads to the mastery and synchronization of body movement.  Students are taught to move freely and uniformly, blocking striking and kicking while moving in various directions.  techniques are precisely controlled according to the student's will power and are directed at the target accurately and spontaneously.  An essential component to proper technique is the application of "kime" or focus, the ability to concentrate the body and mind's energy at a specific target.  Technique lacking in kime will fall short of true karate.

Ultimately, the way of karate is a philosophy of life, a rich rewarding philosophy that incorporates discipline and austere practice with a search for realization of fundamental truth.  In this regard, Karate-do is something that is lived and not simply practiced.

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