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The Wave and Water

A breaking wave is one whose base can no longer support its top, causing it to collapse. A martial artist seeks never to arrive at such a point where there is imbalance in life or in the physical being. This is a reason why Martial Artists seek to train in all areas not just in the physical sense but also spiritually and mentally. Waves are seen to move through an ocean or lake; yet the water always returns to its rest position. This symbolises the necessity to pause and do nothing every now and then. Like a pause in a piece of music, it makes life flow easier. Just as energy is transported through the medium, yet the water molecules are not transported, a teacher can share their knowledge but a student will not be able to grasp all concepts. It is therefore the instructor’s duty to be creative in their teaching methods.

In the Martial arts there is often reference made to developing the whole person. The areas of development talked about are the physical, mental, and spiritual. If a student is spiritually fit, then they will feel good about their sense of being. Having a sense of being is extremely important. The physical and mental parts are irrelevant unless one has a sense of being. A sense of being comes from a sense of being a part of something that is "bigger" than you. Similarly there are many small particles of water that make up the bigger wave. It is important to realise the significance of such small particles of water.

Waves come in many shapes and forms, as do Martial artists. While all waves share some basic characteristic properties and behaviors, some waves can be distinguished from others based on some very observable (and some non-observable) characteristics. These differences in the waves represent the variation in a dojo. All students should be treated with respect as we all have our strengths and weaknesses. Similarly a small wave is perfect for a beginner surfer, while larger waves are great for competition surfers. However we must not allow ourselves to be so narrow minded to think that a smaller wave will not help improve an experienced surfer. It should be understood that we can all learn from each other regardless of rank. It should be understood that it is often helpful to go back to basics to help build a strong base.

Ohm

Meditation can be broadly defined as any activity that keeps a persons attention anchored in the present moment. When the mind is calm and focused in the present, it is neither reacting to memories from the past nor being preoccupied with plans for the future. The intention is not to remove stimulation but rather to direct your concentration to one element - one sound, one word, one image, or one's breath. When the mind is "filled" with the feeling of calm and peace, it cannot take off on its own and worry, stress out, or get depressed.

Breathing is essential to life, and we must concentrate on correct breathing. Zen breathing incorporates a long exhalation, which helps develop the energy from the lower abdomen, or the hara. For a kiai one must focus this energy right at the end of the breath. Too many shout out a kiai to express their personality or as a means to show dominance but it fails to have energy behind it. It is not about trying to become someone, rather we should just be. Meditate only for personal gain. Through meditation it is possible to reflect on the importance of silence.

The Hand

As an instructor one must not show a student their skills, but should rather share their knowledge, otherwise you are merely being an exhibitionist. However, if someone offers you something, you can only take it if your hand and mind is open. The open hand symbolizes the willingness to accept other people’s views, knowledge and personalities. This also emphasizes that if you are open to sharing knowledge in a constructive manner you will be rewarded with greater understanding and personal growth as well as having contributed to making better citizens. The open hand is also a position of readiness; readiness to accept all that is and a readiness to move instinctively. We move most efficiently using only the muscles necessary and tense muscles are slow to initiate movement. Excess tension of the mind and body will slow a person down. No movement or word should be superfluous.

The cup

Each person who enters the dojo has their own ideas, understandings, and experiences on life and training. If a person is consumed in their own ideas and their cup is ‘full’ there is no room for any other ideas or information. Hence it is important to empty your cup frequently, so it is possible to continually gather more information and be open to new ideas. The cup is also a symbol of separation. The bow upon entering the dojo for example helps to separate training from the rest of a martial artist’s day. In metaphoric terms we empty our cup that holds our experiences and feelings from the day in order for us to be able to focus completely on the activities of the dojo.

The cup may also be seen as a means of maintaining good standards. Each time the cup is emptied the contents flow back past where they have previously been. For self-development we must continually revisit the previous lessons learnt. If we are doing this on all levels we are developing a strategy for self-actualization.

The Colours

The blue in the water is symbolic of the wisdom that the martial artist endeavors to acquire. The red of the hand is the strength. It is not only the strength that comes from having a physically strong body, but through relaxation also comes strength and speed of movement. The red that represents strength also represents energy. Energy of the self, others and the surrounding world and environment. The cup being emptied in yellow is the spiritual aspect of the martial arts. This all helps the awareness of linking all parts of life, so as to not train in Martial arts but be a Martial Artist.