Technique of the Week (October 3rd 2011)

From Sensei Kevin Reymond
Shihan, Downtown Ueshiro Shorin-ryu Karate Dojo
Under the Direction oh Hanshi Robert Scaglione

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Courtesy
In the introduction to the red book Hanshi writes, " Fundamental to Shorin-ryu is the observance by practitioners of courtesy and mutual respect". It was always emphasized to me, both on and off the deck by Hanshi and my instructors throughout my training that karate begins and ends with courtesy. In that spirit I thought I would highlight some thoughts about courtesy that appear in the red book to keep them top of mind.
1. Always show courtesy to all
2. Address your instructor as sensei or sempai
3. Bow to the sensei when entering or leaving the dojo
4. When a blackbelt instructor of san dan rank or above enters or leaves the deck for the first time in gi, the senior student should stop the activity on the deck and order the other students to attention.
5. No talking or laughing while class is in session
6. Keep your gi clean
7. Do not leave the deck while class is in session without the instructors permission.
8. Students should bow to each other before and after each practice.
9. Strive to promote the true spirit of the martial arts by:
Character - mental development
Health - physical development
Skill - proficiency in karate
Respect - courtesy to others
Humility - be aware of your short comings
10. Always show courtesy to all.
I have only listed 10 with the thought perhaps we can all add to this list to ourselves in the coming weeks.

Arigato
Sensei Kevin Reymond
Shihan, Downtown Ueshiro Shorin-ryu Karate Dojo
Under the Direction oh Hanshi Robert Scaglione