Many people practice karate just as a sport, which is fine, if nothing else, it is good exercise, boosts confidence and makes you more aware. But there is another side that is only gained through proper training that is much deeper that gives a humbleness of spirit, and the wish to avoid true conflict where possible.
The elimination of ego and fear are important factors, which is difficult, as these exist in everyone to an extent.
Ego leads to false modesty and an over confidence in your abilities and ultimately lack of progress. When people are aggressive this is just fear in a different guise, when practicing you should not seek to be aggressive but to act with speed and intention. A calm mind results in faster movement and quicker reactions.
My biggest wish is that my karate should be as good as the way I can talk about it or imagine it!
Comments