Earlier this year, a good friend of mine set up his own dojo to share the knowledge that he has gained studying and practising martial arts. Yesterday I had the pleasure of attending his first seminar at his own dojo and watching him teach his students, some of whom are teachers in their own right.
This was the first of a series of seminars that will take the students through a level of progression that was taught to him by the Shihan (master teachers) in Japan. The teachings aim to provide life skills by explaining the importance of balance and self-discipline.
Onmyō is the older Japanese character reading of inyō, more commonly referred to in the West by the Chinese expression “yin-yang”. Meaning ‘shade’ and ‘light’, the concept of Onmyō expands to include female-male, positive-negative, inner-outer and life-death. In fact, it encompasses all of the opposites that are both hidden and seen in the universe and it is cyclical in nature. At a deeper level, it embodies harmony. Essentially, it is to reveal the hidden and to ‘see’ the obvious with fresh eyes and new understanding that we patiently persevere in our training.
Hmmmm I have thought of attending such in the past but was never brave enough. Now though maybe, just maybe, I will!!
The yin-yang symbol has influenced me greatly and all that it stands for.
There were a lot of talented people in the room and it was good to watch them training. Whilst I was there I noticed that they do Tai Chi lessons in the same place which I might look into. I used to do Tai Chi some while ago, but the class I went to stopped running.
Excellent. Sometimes I wish I had kept up with martial arts. My dad used to be a judo instructor. He finally gave up at 65. It was only when he was that age that my reactions were faster than the old devil!
I do love the teachings of martial arts. The whole concept is life skills.
Maybe you should take it up again, the session reaffirmed my desire to start up Tai Chi again.
I had tried to get to your site several times earlier today, Cherry, but couldn’t access it…so I’m glad it opened now!
I would LOVE to visit a dojo one day and just observe. I have a feeling I would learn a lot!!! I like the quote regarding Onmyo.
The server where my blog was hosted had failed, it does it from time to time. I am never very patient when it does that. Maybe I should remember these teachings so that I remain a little calmer on such occasions
The basis of the quote is something my friend and I talk about quite often, sometimes late into the night…
(Another late response!)
Ginnie: Most dojos are happy for people to watch, but will usually prefer you to take part – you get a much better idea of what’s going on. Many also have first-lesson-free policies, too. Most instructors won’t even mind people turning up out of the blue, either, but it’s probably better to let them know before hand – if only out of courtesy.
Where do you find the time, Cherie?
For friends, there is no question of time…
My son is taking martial arts (karate) and I have seen how it has help him with self confidence and mastering his emotions. I am happy to see the changes it brought in him
I am glad your son is finding the training beneficial and becoming more confident. Part of the the teachings is about how to control yourself.
I like the way that you captured your friend with his arm still in motion and the studious looks on the students faces… i also like the way that you used a soft oval frame….peter:)
BTW…. thanks for all of your visits this week i appreciate them:)
Thank you Peter It was a very difficult lighting situation and a bit of a challenge to get even half decent photos. Very dark and lots of movement!
(Late reply, I know, but just found this blog – I was at the seminar…)
I’d point out that while Owain looks like he’s resting or asleep on the floor, there, he is either in pain, or anticipating pain. This is the way we roll – some call us masochistic, but it’s fun!
It sounds like you enjoyed the siminar
Owain looks like he is in discomfort or pain to me. He was forced to wait whilst Andrew explained a learning point.