Quiet Karate Class

Our sensei has not shown up to our past two classes, but fortunately for us, Grand Master Hammond has. It must be a little awkward for him to come and not have his past student, and our current teacher, just not show up. For Master Hammond, it's a long trek to get there, and it's nice of him to make the effort to show up. And even though I get nervous around him, we've been jiving a lot more and I've found him to a very interesting and warm person, once you get past the fact that he could rip out your liver.

And the classes have been small. The dedicated few, if you will, though my buddy PC was a no show. Even still, it's a good time for me to practice my katas and get them down, not to mention preparing for my next belt. Now karate to me is all about embracing it so that it becomes about embodying the philosophy rather than just showing up each week to test and get a belt. I bring this up because we only meet once a week, and at first glance, this doesn't seem like enough. Truth be told, it isn't, but only if all you do in terms of learning/practice is that once a week gig.

The reality is, we know what we need to know and practice, and it doesn't require being in class to do it. In terms of katas, one step spars, and even sparring moves, these are all things that you can and should practice on your own time. Endurance, flexibility, and strength are also things that have value in daily life, so I guess, given that we don't have much choice anyway, once a week can work if you dedicate yourself in your free time. Even when you're not in class, I've found it valuable to keep it in my mind and envision things when I can. It puts you in the moment.

I'm still working on this, but I'm getting there. Especially with my katas, specifically my bo kata. Master Hammond said he might put me on the spot at R's test, and the minute he said that I could feel my anxiety level skyrocket. What is it about performance anxiety that gets the best of me?

Until then, I'll keep practicing. And thanks for reading.