Technique of the Week (November 21st, 2010)

From Emiliano Mazlen San-Dan

Shihan, Boston China Ueshiro Shorin-Ryu Karate Club
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Onegai-shimasu Hanshi, Kyoshi, Sensei and Fellow Deshi,

All of our kata begin with a ready or “yoi” position. Although these moves, like other intermediate moves, are done without speed or power, they, like all other moves, are done with kiai and with application of the principles of gan, soku, tanden and riki (eyes/sensing, feet/foundation, hara/will and power). The move, the kata and also the readying of ourselves, if necessary, out in the world are all triggered by a perception of challenge or danger and should lead us to heighten our senses to fully analyze the extent and nature of the potential threat. We then establish strong foundation. Having established foundation, we radiate unbreakable will and unstoppable power, all without moving. Yet, our ready position is not a “put up your dukes,” so-called “passive” position, which may actually increase the risk of a fight by directly challenging our potential attacker to fight. We exude calm. Our breathing is deep, slow and controlled. Our posture is perfect. On the street, we hope to win the greatest victory with this move. That is, we hope to win without fighting, convincing any potential attacker that we are not worth the trouble because we are ready.

Domo arigato gozaimasu to all.