— Encouragement, Karate, Learn to Appreciate, Motivational, Philosophy, Reader —

The Plight of the Martial Arts Woman

I was talking to a couple of martial art women tonight, and the first thing that entered my mind during the discussion was the plight of the martial arts woman. A “plight” is a dangerous, difficult, or otherwise unfortunate situation. While we have made great strides in martial arts, I believe the martial art woman is… Read More The Plight of the Martial Arts Woman

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

Stop Whining and Get Down to Business

It’s quite simple. Stop complaining. I know that politics suck and life is difficult and that we all feel like there is a lack of opportunity, or that we are entitled to something. When it does not go our way, it is easy to complain. Negative words fall from our tongues as freely as a waterfall… Read More Stop Whining and Get Down to Business

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

How to Be More Positive in 2018

Say Goodbye to 2017 2017 probably contained a bit of good and a bit of bad. Either way, it is time to let go of what once was and look forward to a new year with positive anticipation. It is a great time for resolutions and goals, but in order to make any of that… Read More How to Be More Positive in 2018

— Encouragement, Karate, Learn to Appreciate, Motivational, Philosophy, Reader, Self Defense —

5 Reasons I Hate the Martial Arts

I know, the title of this blog post is a bit harsh, isn’t it? Well, read on to find out exactly what I mean. Perhaps you will agree. 1.    Last resort sport I hate the fact that a martial art is often thought of as a “last resort sport” for kids.  Parents walk into… Read More 5 Reasons I Hate the Martial Arts

— Encouragement, Karate, Learn to Appreciate, Motivational, Philosophy, Reader —

The 6 Worst Reasons To Not Try a Martial Art

If this were my perfect world, all people would be like me.  They would think the way I do and see the world through my eyes.  They would find a martial art that they like and learn it.  Yes, I think my way is perfect.  But, they are not me, and there are reasons why they will not even try a martial art.  It… Read More The 6 Worst Reasons To Not Try a Martial Art

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

Find Your Truth

Someone asked me recently, do you know who you are?  I provided the usual reply…”You know, a mother, wife, martial artist, writer, friend…” blah, blah, blah.” The truth is that I did not take even a moment to think about it. What I quickly spewed off are the roles I play in life, not really who I… Read More Find Your Truth

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

6 Profound Gifts You Can Give this Holiday Season  

How many times have you wondered what gift you can give this holiday season? I love wrapped up surprises as much as the next person, but truly, the gifts that mean the most are the ones that touch my heart and change my life in positive and powerful ways. You do not need to spend money… Read More 6 Profound Gifts You Can Give this Holiday Season  

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

4 Steps to Martial Art Mindfulness

What if I told you that there is a martial art component that everyone can learn? You can practice it any place, at any time. Your physical limitations do not matter. Your size makes no difference. Your age, heart health, and other issues do not hinder you in any way. Would you be willing to… Read More 4 Steps to Martial Art Mindfulness

— Encouragement, Karate, Learn to Appreciate, Motivational, Philosophy, Reader —

A Full Belly – A Special Thanksgiving Post

A FULL BELLY Years ago, on Thanksgiving morning, I would take a short drive to the homeless shelter in the middle of town, where I would spend the morning not thinking about myself, but about others. This is where the homeless went for meals, and sometimes lodging. On regular days, they would quietly line the… Read More A Full Belly – A Special Thanksgiving Post

— Encouragement, Learn to Appreciate, Motivational, Philosophy, Reader —

Pushing Hands: The Change Begins Within

I attended my first pushing hands event recently. Coming from a 29-year history in Korean styles, this past year I have delved into Chinese martial arts to enhance my practice, and also because I have had a lifelong interest in Tai Chi. The retreat was offered through the Tampa Bay Martial Arts Group in Florida… Read More Pushing Hands: The Change Begins Within