Encouragement, Karate, Learn to Appreciate, Philosophy, Reader

Live Your Life With Passion

I never understood “passion” until I wrote my first martial arts article.  When I wrote that article, two passions collided, writing and martial arts.  I realized then that I had passion all along, I just never embraced it. That first magazine article was a story about teaching martial arts in a rural community.  If you… Read More Live Your Life With Passion

Decreasing Stress, Encouragement, Karate, Learn to Appreciate, Philosophy, Reader

Opening My Closed Mind

I used to have a recurring nightmare.  I step into an elevator that appears completely normal.  When the door closes, however, it suddenly takes off quickly, in an unexpected direction.  At times it moves sideways, and even turns upside down.  I walk into it unknowingly every single time.  Suddenly, I find myself swirling in different… Read More Opening My Closed Mind

Decreasing Stress, Encouragement, Karate, Learn to Appreciate, Motivational, Reader

The Making of a Champion

The Making of a Champion After 25 years of learning, practicing, and teaching karate; sharing martial arts skills to adults and children; helping students; refreshing my own katas; finding new sources from which to learn; and helping students tie their belts, I’m still nowhere near being a karate champion. I’ve learned and taught martial arts… Read More The Making of a Champion

Encouragement, Karate, Learn to Appreciate, Philosophy, Reader

Why You Should Just Shut Up

I guess the title of this post sounds a little demanding and perhaps a touch disgruntled.  I think that is what it takes to remind all of us that we are often headed in the wrong direction. As a martial artist, I always try to take the high road, give credit where credit is due,… Read More Why You Should Just Shut Up

Decreasing Stress, Encouragement, Karate, Learn to Appreciate, Philosophy

3 Reasons Female Martial Artists Rule

There are many reasons, in my opinion, why female martial artists stand out or make a difference.  Here are three things that impact my opinion the most. 1. They train. In my martial art career, I have been fortunate enough to meet some very awesome female martial artists and female martial art instructors.These are important… Read More 3 Reasons Female Martial Artists Rule

Decreasing Stress, Encouragement, Karate, Learn to Appreciate, Motivational, Philosophy, Reader

“No Worries”- Martial Arts Woman Advice

I never said the phrase “no worries.”  Then, one day, like everyone else, I just picked up the habit.  It’s less personal than “you’re forgiven” and more casual than “it’s okay.” It’s a quick response to an apology.  You forgive others easily via the “no worries” route because, in the big scheme of things, whatever… Read More “No Worries”- Martial Arts Woman Advice

Encouragement, Karate, Learn to Appreciate, Philosophy, Reader

Blindsided by a Gang

Years ago, when my husband and I were just starting our family, we owned a commercial cleaning company.  We purchased the business in our twenties as a way for my husband to use his Master’s Degree in Business toward something of our own. We worked nights because that’s when companies that needed to be cleaned… Read More Blindsided by a Gang

Encouragement, Karate, Learn to Appreciate, Philosophy, Reader

Negativity is Trending

Negativity is trending. It always has, really.  It is no surprise that you find interest in the heartbreaks, setbacks, and difficulties of others.  It is interesting.  You can relate to some of it.  You laugh at the ridiculous parts, and hope it never happens to you. Still, what gets through to your thought process will… Read More Negativity is Trending

Decreasing Stress, Encouragement, Learn to Appreciate, Philosophy, Reader

Stretch Before You Practice

There are some mornings when I wake up tired and in a bad mood.  I know, that’s a terrible way to start the day!  I have to remind myself that for many people I am a source of inspiration and encouragement.  That is how I start to turn the negativity around. I remember that I… Read More Stretch Before You Practice

Encouragement, Karate, Learn to Appreciate, Reader

4 Misguided Interpretations of Martial Arts

I frequently talk about the benefits of martial arts.  They are not only a physical exercise, but they promote great mental wellness, too.  In tough times, a martial art mindset can lead you in the right direction. You can win mental battles and increase physical strength at the same time. They empower women, men, and… Read More 4 Misguided Interpretations of Martial Arts