Suggestions for Generating Power in Uechi-ryu
Understand the nature of force: Li is muscular and is observable as effort. Chi is a metaphor for our naturally occurring and flowing energy. Jin is the expression of power which is the result of optimal channeling of chi, by direction of the will. Visualize, and it will happen, if your mind and body are relaxed. Through relaxation and resilience, one can generate internal power by optimum vector of forces. Internal power appears as an unexpectedly robust manifestation of force, especially considering the minimum apparent effort. With Li, the point of contact is itself the target. However, when a target is hit with Jin, the energy passes though and causes internal disruption. On a basic level: Hit through, not to.
Hi to all Uechi-ryu students and teachers:
What a great time everyone had, including me! Seminars went off without any problems other than the weather not fully cooperating. Mornings were too cold for outdoor classes so we decided to go indoors both days. A few hardy youngsters stayed on the field Saturday morning and wanted to compete in the FireDragon Challenge in spite of the near freezing temperatures. Many thanks to FireDragon coach Jim Baggett, for staying on the field and putting the kids through their paces. Thanks to everyone who participated in this year’s Martial Art Fest and special thanks to Shihan Tom Bentley and his very talented student, Keith Sanders, for conducting a fascinating three hour session involving partner drills focusing on the many uses of “Tai-sabaki”
No question about it, when Roy Bedard shows up for camp, everyone gets excited. His seminars have captivated audiences since he called me one day many years ago and asked if he could participate in SummerFest! During one break during the Friday session, he demonstrated to a group of seniors how he could tweek their noses from six feet away with a powerful punch and he would give anyone ten bucks who could touch his arm with a defensive movement. Hmmm. . . sounds like an easy ten bucks. . . But no one collected that day and I know because I was one of the seniors who tried!
Dana’s seminar will focus on pilates exercises that will help martial artist in their quest to become better practitioners.
My Dearest Vicki,
