 Forging a Karate Mind Karate is not a game of points,
weight classes or showy demonstrations. It is a martial art and way of life that trains a practitioner to be peaceful; but
if conflict is unavoidable, true karate dictates taking down an opponent with a single blow.
Such an action requires
strength, speed, focus, control. But these physical aspects are only part of the practice; they are just the vehicle, not
the journey itself.
True karate is based on Bushido. In true karate, the body, mind and spirit—the
whole person—must be developed simultaneously. Through kihon, kumite and kata we learn to
control our movements. But more importantly, we learn to give up control too. We can perform the techniques without thinking
about them, and remain focused without having to concentrate on any one thing. In essence, the body remembers how to move
and the mind remembers how to be still.
This harmonious unity of mind and body is intensely powerful. Even the
greatest physical strength and skill are no match for the power
of wholeness.
The result of true karate is natural, effortless action, and the confidence, humility, openness and
peace only possible through perfect unity of mind and body. This is the core teaching of Zen, the basis of Bushido,
and the of the JKA’s karate philosophy.
"Courtesy of JKA Tokyo"
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