Recently, I had some professional photographs taken. It was a beautiful day outside. The sun was shining, all the trees were green, and the air was fresh. I found a simple spot to sit in my dress, while the photographer set up his equipment. I hoped he would capture the essence of who I am.… Read More The Martial Art Lens
Someone told me recently, “The pen is mighty.” He was encouraging me to keep writing about important martial art life lessons, even if someone on the Internet challenges me, or provokes me with an unwarranted comment. What he said made good sense. Being a writer, or a martial artist, is not just about what you… Read More The Pen and the Sword are Mighty
Life is a fighting art. There are battles of the mind and of the body. How you overcome your demons and your fears determines how well you succeed. How you improve your body and health determines how you feel. The mind and body connection makes sense. One needs the other. Think of all of your… Read More Life is a Fighting Art
I don’t think I am going too far out on a limb by saying the art of manners in martial arts, and in life, could use a little improvement. When I started strengthening my public profile in social media, and connecting with larger groups of martial artists, I was sad to witness the lack of… Read More 5 Ways to Improve Your Martial Art Manners
Do you have an enemy? Is there someone who criticized, condemned, or unjustly judged you? It is difficult to believe that their intent was to hurt you for no apparent reason, even if that is the truth. These enemies lack kindness and compassion. They easily turn your great day, or your great life, upside down. You… Read More The Enemy List
LINT BETWEEN YOUR TOES The other day in Taekwon-Do class, we were practicing patterns or forms. For non-martial artists, this just means the practice of martial art stances, kicks, and blocks that are choreographed and simulate a fighting situation. Martial artists frequently learn patterns, forms, or katas as part of their training. They are very… Read More Lint Between Your Toes – In Life and Martial Arts
On my drive to work this morning, I contemplated about what I would tell others that might make a difference in their lives, if given a chance. What could I say or remind them that would shake them up a little, push them a little, or give them inspiration to pursue their hopes and dreams.… Read More You Are More
In the late 1980’s, my husband and I bought a house. It was the first house we looked at with the Realtor, and we liked it, but we decided to keep looking just in case there was something better. There wasn’t. For a city spot, it had nearly a quarter acre of yard, was directly… Read More Just Keep Going – A Lesson in Perfection
One of my students drew me a card complete with a picture of me doing a side kick, with a smile, and wearing my signature pony tail. It said “I love karte.”Yes, “karate” was spelled wrong, but it didn’t matter; everything that he was trying to say was just right. His message was clear. He enjoys class.… Read More 5 Great Habits Kids Learn from Martial Arts
I’m not a self-defense expert, but I know my share of escapes, grabs, and take downs. I can kick and punch as hard as any other. I need to learn a lot more about what technique works the best, or how to harness more power; but if anything, I know for sure that I will… Read More Self Defense: What Are You Afraid Of?
