Butterfly Breath

I have been working on a project lately that is both very challenging mentally, but at the same time it's almost mindless. Basically it's something that I could do with my eyes shut (almost) but it's very emotionally draining.

It has been good for me though. I am very determined to see this through, and I am almost done. Which makes it hard to put down, because I want to give my brain a break.

It's the kind of project which reminds me to breathe in and out, and to reflect on the things that are important to me.

So when things seem tough, or your stress is at it's limit, or you feel discouraged, remember to breathe in and out remind yourself of where you are.

Can't put it off any longer

 

Yes, I am talking about this blog. I know it has tremendous value, and maybe it's because I missed last week, but writing today has been very difficult.

There is a lot going on in my head right now, lists of things I want to do, lists of things I need to do, and a blank list.

Why a blank list? I start in a different position at work this week, and I have no idea what it really is. There have been some duties thrown out there, but nothing is cemented. My boss says "Make it yours". Um, ok.

This is a whole new opportunity for me. One that holds many possibilities. One that makes my palms sweat because I am diving into an unknown. However, this is where my Kung Fu comes in.

I have always trusted my instructors to lead me in the right direction, and through them, I have learned to trust myself more. If I work hard, I can begin to master this new path. The path to black belt was laid out for me, but I still had to make my own way, in my own time. After black belt, I continued to forge my own path with patience and discipline. I know the same will apply at work.

So, bring it on!

 

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Depression

Abraham Lincoln, Sir Winston Churchill, Sir Isaac Newton, Mark Twain and Teddy Roosevelt. A handful of well knowns who battled depression.

 

Depression, along with all other mental illnesses are still stigmatized even though its been noted throughout history.

 

A person with depression generally battles with feelings of despair for an extended period of time. It affects all aspects of your life, physically too and can range from mild to severe. For some people they can get through their days, with a bright face on display, and for others getting out of bed is impossible.

 

Its important that we recognize depression, and other mental illnesses and educate ourselves. It's also important that we take a mental picture of where we are at, so perhaps we can find help for ourselves if we need it. Its ok to ask for help. It's ok to lean. But it's not ok to feel sad all the time.

 

I encourage everyone, to learn what you can about depression, or any other mental illness that you may have been touched by. If more people are educated about mental illness, we can share more empathy and compassion with those affected.

 

 

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Untitled

Something came up in class the other night, and it got me thinking about forms. I love forms, and can honestly say that they are my favourite part of Kung Fu.

I hope to teach in the upcoming forms seminar on November 3rd, and look forward to passing on my passion. I learn every time I teach so every one wins! It's a fantastic opportunity for everyone, no matter your rank.

I am excited about the seminar, as I am every year. Hope to see you there!

 

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To blog or not to blog

I've probably used that title before, but its really fitting right now.

I had pretty much resigned myself to not posting this week, until a few moments ago. I don't think I have much to offer right now, and while I am thankful for many things, my heart just isn't in it at this time.

I read all the blogs this weekend and a couple have really stood out for me. One of our family members was cut off of tv and the computer/ iPod on Sunday. And because of that I was again reminded how much fun it is to pull out board games and head outside. We really don't need electronics like we think we do.

I guess my point is, that even if I don't feel like doing something, I am usually better off for it, and secondly, I love spending time with my kids playing board games and such.

 

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Black Dragons

 

 

I have to say this - I am really proud of how the black dragons pulled together for the push-up/ sit-up challenge last week. I felt a lot of energy from the kids, and it felt great to see them post their results online.

 

I hope the kids got something out of this. I know I got an awesome reminder of how much we can accomplish as a team and when we put our minds to something.

 

We had a common goal, we knew our job, and we had fun. So again, our results are...

 

Push-ups - 5619

Sit-ups - 5395

All in one week...

Pretty Awesome!!!

 

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Sparring

I had the opportunity to spar in the black belt class last week, and I tell you it was better than I expected. You see, I haven't exactly sparred grownups much in the past 3 years, and it was never something I looked forward to. It used to give me a lot of anxiety and stress, and during my early sparring years as a lower belt, there were times where I just couldn't do it.

So I am very guilty of not sparring willingly once I earned my black belt. Except when I sparred with the kids in the Black Dragon classes. I guess the kids don't intimidate me, and just maybe it has helped a little with the underlying anxiety I have over sparring in general.

I felt pretty calm last week, and I actually didn't feel like I had to struggle with combinations, or finding my "in". I did learn however, that I need to protect my head more. I took a lot of head shots. :-)

I also think that lots of forms practice has helped me keep up somewhat in this aspect, but I do recognize that I am way behind where I probably should be.

This also got me thinking about the few forms that I don't like to do. And I love forms - they are my favourite part of Kung Fu. So, the moral is this - I MUST focus some more on the things that I like less of in Kung Fu - sparring and in particular Hung 1 and 2. (My dislike for that form is how linear it feels. But that could just be my perception, which will need to change).

See you on the mats!

p.s. Watch for the ongoing saga of the Black Dragons against the I Ho Chuan team!!! Follow us on Kwoon Talk.