Exploring the ancient martial arts
`It’s not the milestones that matter; it’s the moments.’
Life seems to be all about the moments.
Today I sailed along the newly paved levee path here in Gilroy
and enjoyed the experience.
Exploring the ancient martial arts
`It’s not the milestones that matter; it’s the moments.’
Life seems to be all about the moments.
Today I sailed along the newly paved levee path here in Gilroy and enjoyed the experience.
Novice ladies chatted happily and rested comfortably on the park bench in the shade of a walnut tree. The path following the creek was an area aboriginal people trekked, and now is paved smooth for roller-bladders and cyclists.
One dad took his bicycle built for two off the path with his son. A mound of dirt sits beside the levee that will be used to refill creek paths worn down by boys jumping dirt mounds.
An elderly couple shuffled along holding hands enjoying the pre- 8 a.m. coolness. An entire family and its three dogs laugh as one pooch tried to romp off into the bushes but is gently pulled back on its leash.
When my friend and I prepped for the Treasure Island triathlon we cross-trained. Thursdays we ran at local community colleges tracks. Saturdays we rode bikes up the hills above Saratoga or did the loop from Sharon Heights around Portola Valley. We swam from six to 60 laps in high-school pools.
My recent exploration into cross training ultimately led me to karate. There are three reasons to explore the martial arts.
A self-discipline and respect for body, heart, mind and soul is encouraged. Every muscle in the body is trained. Each sessions ends with the instructor intoning the words, “Our purpose is physical, mental, spiritual and to have good character,” in Korean and English.
At West Coast Martial Arts in Gilroy, I met the karate master, and his teaching partner, a bright, energetic French-speaking woman.
The two of them together are great, which is why adults should take advantage of their free lesson and white pants and jacket during the month of June.
The adult class for beginners meets Tuesdays and Thursdays evenings from 6:15-7:15.
They explained that all students start with a simple belt and then pointed to a wall showing range of belts students can earn.
Sharing with our teacher that I had previously studied the arts of Thai Chi and Chi Gong at Esalen, the karate master explained that Thai Chi is a “softer” martial art than karate. I can’t wait to explore this new-to-me discipline.
Whatever your inclination in getting out and enjoying your body and the great out of doors, remember, it’s not the milestones, it’s the moments.
Take the time to honor yourself. Walking is still the best exercise there is. Try to walk for at least 20 minutes.
Bring plenty of water and hydrate as you exercise, especially now that the weather is getting warmer. Enjoy the moments.
