Is Running the Answer?

Yes I know, that statement is probably being uttered in many self-defense classes all over the world and it's good advice.

When at all possible walking or maybe even running away is the best choice to make when you're faced with an attacker, especially if he has a weapon in hand.

But that's not the point of my e-mail today.

It's also easier to lose weight if you at least run explosive sprints every day instead of "plopping" on the couch or engaging in excessive, lethargic sitting each day.

But that's not my point either.

Some of you are so busy running (metaphorically), running after things you don't need.

While you're running through life, remember to stop and enjoy, appreciate and feel.

Like one of my father's mentors would say: "Life for some is running, running so they can eventually find a bench to sit on and catch their breath, but they never reach the bench, as soon as they get close to it, it disappears and re-appears in the horizon, only to repeat itself".

What does the story mean?

Either what you're setting out to do is an illusion, it's not your true calling. You're doing it for the wrong reasons and following this path leads nowhere.

Or

You fail to acknowledge your successes. When you see the bench (a success or accomplishment) you immediately set another one without celebrating the present one. This path leads to never feeling fulfilled.

Or

You come to realize the bench isn't moving away from you, YOU'RE the one moving away from it (the goal) , self-sabotage is the name of this path.

That's why I urge so many of you to become and stay Martial Artists.

It's a way to stop and recharge your batteries.

It's a way to unplug and release pent up emotions that bring you stress.

It's a way to strengthen the mind-body connection that so many people have lost today.

It's an activity that "gives" rather than "takes".

It teaches you principles you can carry on to any area of your life.

It helps you to see clearly and know yourself.

Don't be fooled, not all martial art schools deal with personal development the way Fang Shen Do does.

If you're not training in one of our schools yet you can get started here.

If you are a member, keep it up, the best is yet to come.

Master Yourself,

Sifu Martin

P.S. I'll have important announcements shortly, a great opportunity you won't want to miss.