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Martial Arts

The Fundamental Practice of The Martial Arts

Martial arts can be used as a vehicle for encountering, embracing and transcending the shadow side of our nature. At the beginning of their training, the student learns the proper decorum and basic physical movements. This should include meditation and breathwork as the most vital of Kihon. Students should also be guided to inquire as to the reason for their practice. This evaluation requires self honesty, integrity and the ability to observe what is arising within. A variety of "reasons" for practice may be provided, but for many practitioners, the real reason underlying the others will be fear. All fears, ultimately, can be reduced to fear of death. It seems reasonable that at this stage of training, self defense should be the primary concern. Students at this stage will also confront the prospect of aggression in themselves and others, since aggression often results from fear. Instruction regarding fear and aggression should seek to lead the student to acceptance of them in self and other, and view them as potential tools with appropriate uses. Students must also be warned that like any tool, they can be abused and should not become habitual modes of being in the world.


Isshin Ryu...One Heart Way; trancendence and the martial arts

The style of Okinawan karate I practiced under Sensei Fogleman is called "Isshin ryu Karate Kobudo" meaning "One Heart (or One Mind) Tradition (Continuous Stream) of Empty ("Ku"…devoid of form, like the sky) Hand (Self) and Old War (Weapons) Way (Tao)." When asked by a student why the founder had chosen such a funny name, he replied that "all things begin with the One." Shimabukuro Sensei, the founder, was credited by some of his students with being a mystic. I believe Sensei's comments indicate at least an intellectual understanding of nonduality, similar to that taught by such teachers as Ramana Maharshi, Nisargadatta Maharaj and many others in various religious traditions. My own thoughts concerning practice of his art have become increasingly intertwined with the meaning of the name, psychology, and non-duality. I have come to view the art as a physical metaphor for spiritual principles.