“SPIRIT TRAINING” is the sum of essential components of karate-do that direct the intensity and implementation of all physical activity. The calm, disciplined, everyday-spirit outlined in the Dojo Kun and 20 Precepts of Master Gichin Funakoshi, is meshed with the ever-aware, split- second, explosive, subconscious-directed actions that would nullify even the most ferocious animal. There is the peaceful spirit of disposition and conviction that Funakoshi stressed as the essence and necessity true karate-do. And there is Musashi’s “void,” the highest stage of karate-do described by Masatoshi Nakayama, where accumulated training is internalized to the extent that the martial artist can react with perfection, with no prior indication of danger, at any time or place. What all have in common is the dedicated and disciplined daily study of our conscious thought streams and subconscious mind, coupled with “internalized” karate skills... Or, the sum could be described as “Spirit Training.” Webster’s defines “spirit” as the “life-giving force,” or the “animating component, or stimulant.” All of that is inseparable from karate-do.

I have always encouraged my students to make karate become part of their lifestyle. The “karate lifestyle” can support a healthy, disciplined, inquisitive and well-adjusted human being. It combines the strengths of character from traditional karate-ethics updated with the preparations for the rapidly growing complexities of today’s demands and challenges. Karate Spirit-Training supports strengths and fortifies weakness, stimulates growth and motivates. It is never old fashioned. In fact, its traditional elements are more usable, valuable, and relevant than ever. Used as a character-building, health and fitness, dependable source of positive energy and attitude development, it is incredibly empowering.

If you are a good karate teacher, you are a lifelong learner; always the “beginner’s mind.” Spirit training is about learning the tangible and the intangible. The top of the iceberg is obvious, but the true strength of what we see lies beneath. That is where we can always look for more to make sense of what we think we see. Our insights and studies here are rather comprehensive, very meaningful and quite powerful. Like all martial art studies, we look wide and deep. We learn from everyone, everything, and every experience. This book reflects that empowering process. It is meant to be an insightful lens of all that is easily over-looked, and to see what is too often missed.