Ueshiro Shorin-Ryu Karate - Thought For The Week

Technique of the Week (May 5th, 2008)

From Sensei Lyle Kleusch
Hong Kong Karate Club
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The thought for the week comes from Master Nagamine’s book, “The Essence of Okinawan Karate-Do”.

On page 27, Master Nagamine states:
“Kiai literally means ’spirit covergence’ or ’energy concentration,’ taking advantage of a sound to fuse maximum efficient force that can be exerted. When using kiai, one is using the utmost life force.”

At the center of the hara, (just below your bellybutton), the meridians that carry life energy throughout your body converge. Practice focusing that energy into and through your technique as your breath is pushed out of your lungs by your diaphragm.

Don’t just shout, Kiai!