Can you live by this?

"Following through on a decision long after the excitement and the emotion of the moment has passed." ~ Cavett Robert

How many people would be happier and feel fulfilled if the above statement was followed to a "T".

It's easy to get excited to do something but who possesses the determination and character to actually follow through on it?

Take new year resolutions.

Everybody has one (or some).

But how many have been following through on the resolutions of January 2010 well into December 2010?

That would be an interesting statistic to look at.

My father always encouraged me and my family to write goals before January 1st and I really enjoy doing that.

The part that most people don't get is: If you write your goals down in January and don't look at them until next January, and expect those goals and resolutions to become a reality, it's just not going to happen.

Your goal book is your attack plan.

And goals change all the time throughout the course of a month or during the year.

Where you are versus where you want to go is ever-changing and adjustments need to be made constantly.

Set up the rules so YOU win.

I like the saying: "under promise but over deliver"

Set easy to attain goals and build momentum from there.

Success creates confidence. Confidence creates activity. Activity creates habits. Habits create results. Results are success. Success creates confidence...

Keep that in mind for next year.

Make mastering yourself and martial arts a priority in 2011. Here are lots of ways to help you do that.

Sibok M

Opposite of Lazy

When I was very young my father related one of many stories to me that I'll never forget.

Without going through it all this is how it ends...

So the student asks the wise man: "What would you consider man's greatest sin?'

The wise man pondered for a while and replied:

"Lazyness"

You definitely want to be on the opposite side of lazyness. Nothing fires me up more than seeing a lazy kid or adult.

I just can't stand it.

We also refer to it as someone having lazy energy, lousy energy or sleepy energy.

Do you know someone like that? How does it feel being around them?

Right.

You feel infected.

Unless you hold the antidote to lazyness.

Do you know what it is?

Enthusiasm.

Someone enthusiastic embraces the philosophy of:

DO IT NOW

Whatever falls into your lap as things to do. Do it now.

Do it now or take some action towards the completion of that thing that needs to be done now.

If your spouse asks you to do something: Do it now.

If daily physical training is on your list Do it now.

If you're a parent, remember kids model someone, YOU. If a child is lazy they learned it somewhere, from watching you!

This little phrase should be embedded in your mind like a little mantra.

Master Yourself, Do it Now!

Sibok M

Bruce Lee's Birthday

Over the weekend, a martial arts icon would have celebrated his 70th birthday.

The one and only Bruce Lee.

It's hard to imagine him at that age when all you remember is his young, chiseled physique and magnetic stage presence only to leave us so abruptly.

If he was still alive what would he have done next?

What else did he have left to contribute?

These are all questions of "Zazen" Nature. (Basically "questions without answers")

It makes me think of MY life.

And YOU should too.

What do you have left to contribute?

What's next for you?

What are some of your goals and dreams not yet accomplished that could be if you approached life with a greater sense of urgency?

I know.

It's the kind of questions that snap you out of your daze.

Sometimes we're on auto-pilot and we need to be reminded that our time here isn't guaranteed.

The excuse of : "I'll get to it when I have time" might turn out to be: "Damn...I'm too little too late"

That has got to be the worst feeling of all. Don't you agree?

Coming to the realization that you let your life pass you by. Procrastination is a tough opponent to beat.

This is why it's so important to develop both mental and physical strength.

Both give you confidence to undertake the goals you have set for yourself and actually follow through on them.

Give the gift of strength this year. Either for yourself or someone you love. Visit the DVD's and Books section and at checkout enjoy a 20 % rebate in honor of Bruce's B-day by typing in 'BRUCE' in the coupon box.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

Rare Bruce Lee Collection

Overwhelming?

Not to say the least.

Here's a shot taken in Bob Wall's Attic where he showed me only one third of his Bruce Lee Collection.

With most of it in storage, he keeps his most valuable pieces in this secret area in his home.

I was blown away.

Pictures I had never seen.

Scripts that Bruce was working on.

Home movies.

'Behind the scenes' shots of Enter the Dragon where the late Anna Capri filmed him sparring Bruce.

And on and on Bob went for about 2 hours. There was no way I could ever get through all the stuff in one sitting. Seriously, I think I might be able to if I dedicated a whole month to doing only that and even then I think I couldn't see everything.

The lesson I took from seeing all this special stuff was, when you're absolutely clear on what you want as did Bruce Lee, and it becomes a magnificent obsession (a term coined by W. Clement Stone and Napoleon Hill) you attract it like magic into your life.

Who knew a small asian boy might rise up to this level of fame? How many people actually believed he could accomplish what he did in so little time?

He did.

He believed.

As long as you stay focused on what you WANT (not what you DON'T want) you'll eventually get it.

Strengthen your Mind and Body through the wonders of Martial Arts and may you have anything and everything your heart desires.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

P.S. Want a strong, flexible body? You can by following the steps outlined in our Basic Station Training System.

Are you Teachable?

While I'm wrapping up my time spent here in Los Angeles this important question comes to mind.

Not only is it important in Martial Arts but I think what you accomplish in your life is in direct proportion to how faithful you are to this important principle.

"Are YOU teachable?"

"Of course I am!" you might say.

Staying teachable is one of the hardest things to do because eventually your mind wants to say: "I know that, NEXT!"

And it isn't so much about learning new things it's HOW you learn. Do you look and listen more than you talk?

Do you know what one of your body's strongest muscles are?

Your legs?

Your biceps?

Maybe your abdominals?

Actually, none of the above.

Some of the strongest muscles in your body are in your EYES.

And for good reason.

If you're going to learn and constantly improve yourself you need to use them wisely.

Model someone that has what you want or has been where you have been.

Along the same lines, another strong muscle is your tongue.

When you do speak (which should be proportionately less than watching and listening) make sure to keep your promises and follow through on what you say you're going to do.

Become a person of integrity and character.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

P.S. This has got to be one of the most important life lessons you can ever learn.

Not only in martial arts but in every area, be it in your personal affairs or professional ones.

Do you know someone who doesn't follow through on their promises? Send them our way and we'll help them with that.

Hello from California

I'm writing this post bright and early from Bob Wall's Kitchen in Los Angeles.

I'm back here spending some time in California like I did last year.

I'll be posting interesting pics in the coming week and Inner Circle Members will have a treat as I'll be filming the November Issue straight from LA.

My first stop is visiting Gokor Chivichyan's Brand New 10,000 sq. ft. facility in N. Hollywood where I'll be spending most of my time.

I hope that you too are living your dreams and choosing to walk the path of self-mastery.

If not NOW, when will you?

Are you wondering how? What better vehicle to get you started than the martial arts.

We've outlined a pretty effective way of doing that in this book: "10 Secrets to a Rock Solid Martial Arts Foundation".

When you order it you also get 2 free bonuses:

A New Student Orientation DVD that covers the important curriculum you need to learn when starting out and our Strategic Action Guide that gets you to follow through on the goals you set and see them through to their completion.

Order your copy today.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

I see the light!

Today marks the 131st year since Edison first was successful with his carbon filament light bulb which lasted for 13.5 hours back in 1879.

The reason I bring this up is the mindset and important lesson that can be drawn from Edison's struggle with making this discovery.

Everyone knows (or should know) that Edison failed 10,000 times before being successful with his invention.

Talk about persistence!

And we are sometimes frustrated in our martial art training when we don't get it the first try!

How ridiculous.

This ties in perfectly with one of Bruce Lee's famous quotes: "I fear not the man who has practiced 10,000 kicks once, but I fear the man who has practiced one kick 10,000 times."

Take from Edison and Bruce Lee's example and do with it what you will.

Persistence and a never give up attitude is crucial to accomplishing your goals.

Although your martial art journey is never all highs and all lows, I assure you the rewards of sticking with it and following through will bring personal satisfaction and a deep feeling of accomplishment not because you reach black belt but to realize you did not allow any circumstances to deviate you from your objective.

Success builds Confidence.

The ultimate goal is to mirror what you do in the Dojo and match it in everything else you undertake in your life. Be relentless. Be a warrior and never, ever give up.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

Atrophy of the Mind

Everyone is familiar with muscle atrophy.

Not exercising is the main cause of muscle atrophy.

But what about the mind?

How can we avoid atrophy of the mind?

As a rule, make sure you exercise your mind as much as you do your body.

Your mind is begging for a challenge.

Make sure you are always expanding, learning and growing.

Once a goal is accomplished immediately set a new one.

Dream.

Dream like when you were a kid.

Nothing is more sad than seeing someone stuck in stagnation. Going through the motions and getting nowhere stuck in a routine rut.

Anyone who knows my family personally knows we're always working on something. It's never boring around here.

Speaking of new projects. Sijo, our founder is starting a 45 and up class next Thursday in Ottawa.

This class is focused on maintaining joint mobility, increasing energy and sensitivity, fitness, meditation and discussions about living the life you were born to live, the law of attraction, finding fulfillment and purpose in your life, etc...

Call the Ottawa location if this is of interest to you.

No matter what your age or if you're outside the vicinity of any of our schools, avoid atrophy of the mind. It's as simple as learning a new skill.

Martial Art training is great for the mind and keeps you young.

Give it a try, be our guest, find a location near you and discover how invigorating training can be or find a DVD or Book that interests you by visiting the FSD Store.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

Single Focus Part 3

A few weeks ago I started a series on key areas you should focus on as a martial artist.

You read about Speed development and its importance in Single Focus Part 1.

Then you learned how injecting Emotional Intensity into your training guarantees results and drives you to follow through on the goals you've set in Single Focus Part 2.

This next key area of development is one that requires your full attention.

When you've acquired it, it will make everything else you do that much easier and effortless.

It is the root of power.

Have you guessed what it is?

Yes, it is none other than Flexibility.

A loose, pliable and flexible body can generate more power.

It has less chances of getting injured.

You'll learn faster. What? How can flexibility help with that?

One of the challenges most beginners have to face when starting any area of martial arts, be it standing up, on the ground or with weapons is dealing with stiffness.

By learning to relax and avoid being rigid when first learning the techniques, you'll be teaching your nervous system and muscles faster and in a more effective manner so you can integrate the techniques and start using them with more speed and power.

Learning to stretch and acquire joint mobility is also a natural stress reliever.

What you can do mentally when stretching is think of stress as being trapped in a sponge. The sponge being your muscles.

As you stretch, you feel and visualize stress being squeezed out of your body until the last drop. Continue to do this with each body part that you are stretching. I've found this method to be highly invigorating while also feeling like you've had a weight lifted off your shoulders.

When cooling down after a workout and going through some of the exercises covered in our Flexibility Series DVD, the mental clarity and calmness you feel should be something everyone gets to experience.

This key area of development needs to be part of your training routine but not any kind of stretching, learn how to stretch your whole body and double your flexibility over night by following some of the steps outlined in our Flexibility Series.

Make this one of your main focus areas and everything else will suddenly be much easier.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

P.S. The Flexibility Series is one of our best products and is one area that most people struggle with. Make stiffness, pain and lack of mobility a thing of the past when you order: Flexibility: How to become as flexible as you were as a Child"

Breaking Agreements

How many times can you break the clauses in a work contract?

What about mortgage payment agreements and car loan payments?

Zero right?

If you do there will be severe consequences and penalties.

But how many times have you broken an agreement that you made to yourself without even acknowledging it?

Why is that?

Why are we so easy with ourselves?

Is it because nobody holds you accountable to any of the resolutions that you made at the beginning of the year?

Do you know you'll make up for that missed training day tomorrow without any ill effect?

Or are you the "Boss around here" and "you'll do whatever you damn well please"?

I like to think of my training, my eating habits and the commitments I've made to myself like full fledged contracts and I strongly recommend you do to.

Whether you decide you're going to commit to something silently in your head, on paper or shared publicly with friends and family you are binded by it.

Having this kind of mentality forces you to follow through on the goals you've set for yourself.

No excuses are made. No procrastination is let in.

Pride and Integrity is what you'll feel when you look back on your journey knowing you DID what you SAID you were going to do.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

P.S. How many times have you said you were going to get in shape, lose weight and build strength? Isn't it time you followed through on that? Here's where to start: Station Training

The next step in your training!

You've seen the Basic and Intermediate Station Kit being offered on the website and you've heard me talk about the next installment being released shortly, well...

It's finally here!

The Advanced Station Kit.

I'd like you to be one of the first to own it. If you're an FSD student, this is the natural progression from your Basic and Intermediate Station Training. It's been designed to seamlessly help you prepare your body for the coming demands that will be put on your body as you progress through the Fang Shen Do System.

If you're not a member but are looking for a challenge and you're curious to see what kind of exercises we do to rid our body of neck, shoulder, back and knee pain in a flash then read on as I explain what you get with this training system.

Here's what's included in the Advanced Kit:

*160 Laminated Cards.

That's 160 progressive exercises that build upon what you've learned in the Basic and Intermediate Kits.

You've probably heard about how your body adjusts every 6 weeks to any kind of physical demand you put on it and how changing your routines and increasing the difficulty of an exercise guarantees you'll keep on getting stronger and making significant gains in your training.

*All music

From 30 seconds to 5 minute intervals you can mix and match exercises and vary the length of every single station. We've also created surprise tracks where you don't know how long each intervals are. Some stations are only 30 seconds long, then maybe 1 minute, then back to 30 seconds, 2 minutes, 5 minutes etc...

*Instructional DVDs:

This was quite a feat to finish. Considering 160 exercises.

Even if I only took 1 minute to explain all of them, that's 160 minutes of raw footage, without counting all of the editing. And most took longer than 1 minute to explain.

*Training Manual E-Book

If the DVDs weren't enough we've compiled everything for you so you can easily look up an exercise and re-read the instructions for proper form and application.

Alot of work went into this course and once you actually start doing the advanced circuits you'll discover muscles that have laid dormant for a while and will help you set the bar high when it comes to your physical fitness levels.

When you see some of the exercises and actually try them out you'll quickly understand how you can take your current fitness level and surpass it within the first month.

I also cover various ways of using the kits to increase your cardio and body awareness so you totally master your body.

I'm very excited to release it and again I wanted you to be one of the first to put it to the test.

Today until Wednesday night only we're including FREE Shipping (a 15$ to 25 $ value depending where you live) and a FREE Issue of my most recent Inner Circle (a 40$ value) to all Advanced Station Kit orders.

The kit is 129$. Here's a recap of what you get:

• 160 High quality laminated cards (the cards alone are worth the price: 129$ /160= .80 cents each)

• All music with Intervals ranging from 30 seconds to 5 minutes. (All easily downloadable)

• 2 DVDs (filmed in HD) with full instruction

• Advanced Training Manual E-Book

• FREE Shipping (15 to 25 $ value)

• And my latest Issue of the Inner Circle (40 $ value)

You can pay in full here:

or if you prefer to break it into 2 payments, go here.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

P.S. Even if you can't perform some of the exercises, just watching me go through them on DVD will inspire you and open your mind to the endless possibilities and what YOU can expect to accomplish in the future.

Need Self-Confidence?

It's that time again.

To step out of your comfort zone.

If you stay where you feel comfortable, safe, and content you'll never grow.

You'll stagnate and lead a mediocre life.

But challenge yourself, step into the unknown and watch as your self-confidence expands and reveals parts about you that you didn't know existed.

Whenever I stare at the fire pit I get goose bumps.












Don't you?

Look at the power of fire in this picture.

Can you imagine walking across it?

What if I told you, you could?

And it would be one the most unique sensations you've ever felt?

That joy and excitement would fill every inch of you.

You'd come out on the other side forever changed and armed with renewed focus and determination to tackle any of life challenges and more passion to reach out and make your goals and dreams a reality.

It truly is an experience you'll never forget and it's happening this weekend at our Private training facility right here in Casselman, Ontario on October 3rd at 6 pm.

Come walk with us.

Register here.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

Single Focus Part 2

Like I was mentioning last week, one of the first ingredients you should focus on as a martial artist is...

Speed

Armed with speed you'll be well on your way to keeping an edge over your training partners or fellow competitors.

But speed alone isn't the only attribute you should be looking to acquire.

One key focus area that is often neglected is...

Intensity.

Intensity is the work ethic you bring to the table when you train. You need to acquire this key focus area.

Once you have Intensity there is absolutely no way you're ever going to give up when the going gets tough. And I'm not just talking about "in the Dojo". With Intensity you can tackle any challenge that presents itself in your life and it also gives you that drive to accomplish your goals and dreams.

But it starts by learning the basics of how to harness your Intensity. You have this capacity locked inside you. You just need to know how to unleash it.

This principle is first developed within our Fitness Program.

You'll be quickly introduced to the concept and you'll instantly understand why training the way we do leads to higher Intensity levels.

Even after your first workout you'll understand where this training can take you.

Let's get to work on this second key focus area.

Here's where to start: Basic Station Training Kit

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

Strong Finish

Here we are approaching the final quarter of the year.

This is where it counts the most. Don't you agree?

Just like the last leg of a race, the last inning, or the last round in a MMA match, you gotta give it one last push to come out on top and make 2010 a year you can be proud of.

I want you to look back on 2010 and see a year of change where better choices were made about the food you ate, the fitness program you were able to stick with, personal challenges you were able to care of, and a feeling of being that much closer to realizing some of the dreams you have.

For some, the internal flame that was lit in January concerning goals and resolutions might be slowly dwindling but not if I can have anything to say about it!...

In order to give you one last shot of motivation before we call this year a wrap, we're holding one last Firewalking event this year.

It will fill you with enough energy and enthusiasm to finish the year strong and help carry you over to 2011 where even more good things will happen to you if you keep challenging yourself and surrounding yourself with like minded people that want the very best for themselves and their families.

An event not to be missed right here at the Pagoda, October 3 rd at 6 pm.

To register follow this link.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

Single Focus Part 1

During the life of a martial artist you find yourself concerned with only a handful of areas of development that need to be tended to.

A single focus on these key areas will yield great results and they should constantly be on your mind.

Yes you will learn many different techniques but once you've set a system to progressively improve in those core areas "You'll be all set".

One of your Key Focus areas should be SPEED.

Could you benefit from a little more speed in your martial art training?

Speed translates into:

• Better timing
• Reaching your intended target
• Cutting down hesitation time and simply responding
• Better perception (visual, auditory and tactile sensitivity)
• Shocking organs upon impact for maximum efficiency
• A healthy nervous system
• and much more....

One of the secrets of speed is actually doing things SLOW.

Slow is Fast.

This is just one of the principles you're going to learn in our SPEED DVD Series "How to become blindingly fast...regardless of your current speed"

It's an absolute must if you're going to compete or engage in any kind of tournament and speed is of utmost importance when your personal safety is on the line.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

P.S. But Speed is only part of the equation. It's the first ingredient so to speak to becoming a proficient martial artist. Get it here and look for Part 2 of this series coming at you very shortly.

You're Invited!

If you happen to live in the Ottawa Area we've got something special for you tomorrow.

Tomorrow is the Grand-Opening of our newly renovated, state of the art facility we've just recently moved to.

And we'd like you to be part of the celebration.

Whether you're an active, inactive or past student we'd love to see you train with us during the day.

It's happening tomorrow at 270 Catherine St. with classes running all day starting at 11 am.

All subjects will be covered from Sanshou, Street Self-Defense, Grappling, Weapons and Conditioning for Health & Fitness.

You'll have a chance to learn sparring drills inside our UFC Octagon, listen to percussionist group MALOUKAI and watch demos which all ties in with our 31st Anniversary Celebration.

We know you'll be starved by the end of the day so we'll have the BBQ grilling away until your hunger is satisfied.

Get ready for some fun times with students from all around the Ottawa Valley. For sure, a day you won't want to miss!

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

P.S. New Product Alert! The finishing touches on this product are almost complete I'll be making the announcement very shortly on what and how you can get it.

Fight Night Highlights

If you're interested in seeing some of the Fight Highlights from our Fight Night this Saturday I've just uploaded the video.

Every fighter showed a lot of heart and they didn't disappoint.

I can just imagine the level of skill they will have in the years to come if they keep participating in these events. For some it was their first time and honestly after watching the video it didn't seem like it!

You can find it here on the main page of the Fang Shen Do Website.

Scroll down a bit on the right you'll see FSD on Youtube, you can't miss it.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

Fight Night was Dynamite

Fight Night was in full swing this weekend and the fighters really put on a good show.

Sifu Patrick and Sifu Stephane hosted the event and fighters came from within our 25 locations to participate.



















As with every Fight Night there are some surprises; knock-outs, reversals, and improvements amongst the fighters.

Originally conceived to give our competitive students a place to gain experience, confidence and sharpen their skills, it has also become the best way to keep these aspiring fighters hungry and raising the bar. Not in a negative, ego driven way but in a spirit of teamwork.



















When these fighters go back to their respective schools they then pass on what they've learned to other students through the drills and sparring routines we have them go through. In the end everyone gets better and learning is greatly accelerated.

Be part of our winning team.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

P.S. I'll have the Fight Highlights ready for tomorrow. Check for the link tomorrow.

Saturday Night Fights

Looking for something to do this weekend?

How about some Saturday Night Fights?

Do things a bit out of the ordinary this weekend.

Instead of doing the same old thing, come experience the thrill of watching some Sanshou Fights.

Sanshou rules call for more explosive and entertaining bouts.

When you throw in the mix Punching, Kicking and Throwing it makes for a more dynamic visual display of skill than Boxing or Kickboxing combined.

You might even know some of the fighters competing this weekend and I'm sure they would appreciate your support.

You can reserve a ticket here.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

Your health is in your hands

I open up today's post with a quote from George Eliot.

"It's never too late to be what you might have been."

Do you catch yourself postponing a goal or dream you want to accomplish?

Or initially you find all the reasons why you should take action only to let the reasons why you shouldn't stop you from accomplishing them?

This is often the case with starting a fitness program.

Everyone knows they should be training and leading a healthy lifestyle but are plagued with these all too common questions and false assumptions:

• I'm too old.
• I don't have time.
• I've tried everything.
• I'll have to give up certain foods I like.
• It's a full time job.
• I have no will power.
• Everyone in my family is overweight, it must be the genes.
  
• Did I say I don't have time?

Instead of focusing on why you can't get in shape, why not focus on what will happen if you don't (get in shape).

Feeling strong and vibrant is the first step to giving you enough fuel to make everything else in your life a reality.

When you're physically and emotionally fit you can climb, jump, crawl, out run, or maneuver around any obstacle that stands in your way (literally and figuratively).

Your health is in your hands, make the choice of leading a healthy lifestyle and constantly pushing yourself to new limits.

Here's the quickest way to get started: Station Training

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

It's Louse Time! Keeping it Old School

If you're new to my list of focused, motivated, self-starters, Welcome.

(if you're not new jump right away to today's lesson below)

Every day I communicate to you the best ways to train and the kind of mindset it takes to get results either in your physical fitness or martial art training.

Friday is always what I call: "Louse Time". Modeled after Bruce Lee's strategy in Enter the Dragon. You know that part where he's having tea with the government agent but he's disturbed by one of his students and Bruce Lee tells the agent: It's Louse Time!

The agent replies with his British accent: "yes of course". Since I'm 6 years old that scene has always stuck with me and I'll be using that same strategy with YOU every week.

Friday is where I share with you Life Lessons and Direction given to me by my dad (and Sifu) every Friday.

Today's lesson is: Keeping it Old School

Look around you.

Would our society be better off if we kept things old school?

In all departments.

Be it in relationships (romancing one woman 1000 times instead of romancing 1000 women once)

Martial Arts (Fully embracing the art and making "daily practice" a habit that will inevitably lead you to self-mastery)

Work Ethic (Having pride in your work and focusing on getting the job done instead of cutting corners and passing the buck)

Nutrition (Not falling victim to processed food altering our mind and body)

Courtship (Enjoying the process of falling in love and building a strong bond instead "doing" everything the first night)

Our grand parents and great grand parents had less technology than us but man did they know how to live.

What was all too common for them is being lost today.

All this entertainment and fast paced world we live in, we sometimes forget to just stop and feel our life, our breath.

Something basic like meditation could be done on a more regular basis. Meditating doesn't mean you have to hold a lotus position for hours, while wearing a white satin robe and shaving your head while humming and chanting a sacred poem.

Many types of meditations exist and most can be done out in public without anyone knowing you're doing anything special.

Keep it old school, Re-connect with You. Get this DVD to see what I mean. Meditation DVD.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

Your Most Challenging Opponent

Do you ever think about that?

Who would be the worst opponent you would have to face?

Would it be against an unknown thug with a sinister look on his face in a dark alley?

An ex-convict just released from prison?

Or maybe Georges St-Pierre, Anderson Silva or Randy Couture?

The truth is, we're all fighting a relentless opponent.

An opponent that dwarfs any of today's fighters, criminals, or street gang bangers.

Do you know who it is?

STRESS.

Stress is your number one opponent.

Stress is who you should be watching out for and training to fight against.

It is all around us, every day, day and night and constantly attacking our immune system.

Stress is responsible for most illnesses and disease as well as premature aging.

Stress is on the rise and if we're not careful, IT will win the fight.

I hear you calling out: "So what am I supposed to do?"

For starters monitor how you feel throughout the day.

What is stressful for one person might not be for another.

If you love what you do for a living it doesn't feel like work therefore stress levels will be at a minimum.

What if you don't have a choice and you have to work at that job of yours that you hate? (Recent studies show that in excess of 80% of people do, no wonder stress levels are through the roof!)

If this is the case then you need to release stress with the best known solution known to man:

EXERCISE.

"But exercise IS a form of stress to our body?" you're right, but it depends: "HOW you exercise."

I've been talking about 2 great forms of safe exercises for a long time now.

Station Training and Neigong Training.

Both combined make for a perfect balance between the internal and the external.

Station Training is short and dynamic usually completed in under 15 minutes and Neigong increases blood flow to all organs, strengthens ligaments and tendons and flows your Chi through all meridians of your body for a truly rejuvenating sensation after a training session.

I urge you to check both out in the health section in the FSD Store.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

Keep the Edge

Time flies when you're having fun, right?

Summer has passed, kids are back to school and Training Camp is but a long lost memory.

Unless of course you get to see more pictures to help joggle your memory!

Even if you didn't attend there's a powerful lesson I'd like to share with you today.

2010 is almost a wrap and the dreaded Winter Season is soon upon us.

I say "dreaded" because most people pack on a layer or two of fat during the winter months and I think most people want to avoid that this year.

The powerful lesson I want you to get in the habit of following is creating and re-visiting Visual Triggers.

Most Pictures we take are when we are happy, yes?

Pretty rare that we think of taking a picture when we're at a low point in our life.

Can you imagine that? An album loaded with the worst moments of your life? No thanks.

What I'm getting at is you're going to have ups and downs in your training, that's totally normal.

But if you surround yourself with Visual Triggers that get you excited and motivated to train they'll happen less and to a lesser degree.

Pictures on your Walls, Albums, Goal Books, Dream Boards, Clothes, Music.

If you look for them they're all around you, use them and keep the edge in the coming months so you're ready to take on the new year and double your efforts to get what you want out of life.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

Everyone is on Steroids?

Recently I was talking with Sifu Alain and he brought up a television show he had seen recently that was showcasing a problem of epidemic proportions.

And it doesn't involve the typical Body Builder anymore, musicians and students are taking them as well.

You guessed it, I'm talking about Steroids.

The show is called Bigger Stronger Faster.

And it's amazing to see what people are willing to do to be number one in their field.

What was equaling amazing was how steroids, I mean "performance enhancers" (as they are called now) were accepted in some fields and rejected in others.

It's wrong for Marion Jones and Barry Bonds to take them but the musician that takes Beta Blockers to get rid of the edge before his performance is okay?

Even College and University students are exposed to performance enhancing drugs which resembles Ritalin and are passed around like there's nothing to it in schools?

What the hell is wrong with our society?

We live in a world of instant gratification that's what. Nobody wants to do the work any more.

If so many young adults are consuming these drugs now what kind of repercussions can we expect when they're older?

What kind of health issues will be encountered?

This dependence on drugs transcends in all other areas as well. This need to find a quick fix for just about any ailment you could encounter when the root cause is totally ignored is not the way to go in my book.

Your body is constantly giving you feedback, why ignore it and mask the symptoms with drugs?

In almost all cases, a safe natural approach can be used to treat many problems.

Why should we continue to fill the pockets of the pharmaceutical companies who only care about filling their coffers and purposely lobbying against safer, alternative, natural medicines?

Next time you want to pop a pill for something ask yourself: "Do I really need to take this?", "How about I start by Hydrating myself properly throughout the day and exercising?". Look at what you eat and inhale on a daily basis and see if that could be the cause of some of your problems.

Lots of problems are related to circulation problems and without a doubt the Neigong Training (Internal Work) we do in our schools helps in that area.

The way you feel after your Neigong workout truly needs to be felt to be appreciated. It arms you with the feeling that: "Hey, I can take care of myself, and doing these exercises guarantees I'm putting all the chances on my side to stay healthy, strong and vibrant."

I strongly recommend it. Get it here.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

An Unforgettable Weekend

Last weekend was our Annual Fang Shen Do Training Camp and I have to say, the energy of the group was awesome.

I can't possibly upload all the pics I have from that weekend but I'll start with these ones and check back often for more.

Making sure YOU have a great experience is at the top of the priority list.

We expect nothing but the best from our participants and in turn we also make sure to plan, organize and construct the best possible camp with an emphasis on constant and never ending improvement every year so that students are pleasantly surprised when they return a second or third time.

Whether you're here for the first time or you're a returning student, drills and activities are already planned in advance to make sure everyone feels challenged and learning something new.

"Lean on me, and when you're not strong and I'll be your..." like the popular song goes, everyone at camp is supportive and ready to cheer you on whether you're tackling a fear of heights, fatigue or you're just not quite sure of yourself, everyone pulls together and feeds off each other's energy to make it happen.

The struggle often doesn't lie against somebody else but against yourself. When you walk out of camp, you walk out a different person with new found energy, more awareness about what you really want out of life and a renewed sense that you can accomplish anything you set your mind to.

Obstacles we face in life and limiting beliefs start in the mind.

Powerful metaphors for success are ingrained at camp.

The skills required to make it through most training obstacles are the same you require in daily life.


























No hesitation. Trust in your instincts and skills. Starting with the end in mind in everything you do. There's nothing you can't do with a little repetition and experience.



















Oh, and a little INTENSITY.

With these qualities combined you'll go a long way.




















There really is no limit to what you can accomplish.

When talking about goals and aspirations keep this quote in mind:

"Go as far as you can see and when you get there, You'll see further."

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

P.S. I'm already pumped up for next year! Will you be there?

More pictures coming soon.

Bo Staff and Sword Seminar

Every July, our annual Bo Staff and Sword Seminar takes place, finally today I was able to upload some pictures and more information on that particular seminar.



























2 of my favorite weapons (makes me wonder: "Do I even have a favorite weapon?", I think not!)




















What I like the most about weapons is the level of awareness you must have.
























It really forces you to pay attention and teach your body new ways to move and this is backed up by some serious collateral for precision: Pain

One false move and you get whacked by your weapon.

Doesn't take long that you're moving it correctly!

Luckily everything we teach is on film and ready to be viewed by the touch of a button which will save you time and a few bruises going at it alone.

Everything you need to know to lay a strong foundation with the Bo Staff can be found here
Bo Staff DVD.

And if the Sword is what you prefer you can find more information on it here Sword DVD.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

Couple of Announcements

We're hours away from our annual Training Camp.

If you are attending I guarantee we have one hell of a weekend planned out for you.

If you're not, make sure to mark your calendar for next year. Our camp always falls on the first or second weekend of August within the 5th to 9th.

You can't imagine the kind of facility we have here. This year I'm going to try (yes I will try) to release snippets of the camp on Youtube as we progress through it. No guarantees of course because it's kinda hectic here but chances are I'll pull through. So look for Updates via Twitter and Youtube and please sign up to the FSD Youtube Channel to get instant alerts.

The second thing I want to mention is our website.

Our NEW website. You might of seen it already. I'd love to hear what you think via e-mail. Find me in the contact section or Montreal school section for my e-mail.

Lots of work went into it and lots more videos and cool things coming your way from FSD Central.

Enjoy the new site (with lots of interesting content) and I'll look for your feedback.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

Big Claims

We've become pretty proficient at helping people get in shape quickly and this in under 30 days or less.

But today I saw something hilarious.

An Ad promoting:

"Get toned by tonight!"

Is it any wonder why people are confused about fitness when you read something like that?

Do people actually believe that?

Do YOU believe that?

I guess when you're desperate to lose weight you'll believe and try anything.

More often than not the people who are looking for these quick fix workouts and diets are the ones that always end up quitting when the results don't magically happen instantly and in this case in a matter of hours!

I despise any magazine or training courses advertised with miraculous results in weeks or days.

When will people understand that fitness and training isn't something you do for 2 weeks to get that hot body you always wanted and then go back to eating junk food and sitting on the couch.

Fitness is a serious commitment you make to yourself. A commitment you should keep for the rest of your life.

There's a lot of things I do to keep the fitness commitment I've made to myself but at the center core of my training programs, Station Training will always be set as my foundation, the way that my father and my family has developed it throughout the years.

The results we've been getting have been phenomenal and I'll soon release a few videos highlighting some of our students and the kind of results they've gotten from following the system.

You can get your very own Station Training Kit right here.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

P.S. Hey, you might not be fit by tonight but give me about 30 days of your undivided attention and you'll feel better than you've felt in a long time. Let's do it

New Sifu in the FSD Organization

Recently a new Sifu was appointed in the FSD Organization.

Sijo, our founder, made the announcement during our monthly owner's meeting held at our private Pagoda in Casselman.

Lots of things go into becoming a Sifu and Marc displayed all of the qualities required to receive that title.

Marc Beauchamp's official presentation will be held August 10th in Brossard. If you're a student of Sifu Marc then I strongly urge you to be there and make it a memorable night for him.

Other students from all FSD Schools are also invited to attend the presentation on that night.

Since the first day I met Marc, I always knew he was going to go far within our system. He's hard working, determined and a highly motivated individual.

His students can learn a lot from him, not only from a skill development standpoint but using him as a role model when it comes to leadership, achieving goals, and how to spread positive vibes with everyone you meet.

I'd just like to extend my sincere congratulations and I know the best of you is yet to come.

Sibok M

Fight Camp Pics, Finally!

It's unbelievable how fast one month can go by and in a flash we were on our way for a second one when finally my photographer called and said: "They're Ready!"



















On June 5 th, we held a special gathering of our MMA/Sanshou Program Students with Special Guest Gokor "The Armenian Assassin" Chivichyan.



























The Pagoda was packed and the students absolutely loved it.























Take our already effective fighting style and conditioning program mixed in with Gene LeBell's no. 1 student, Gokor Chivichyan for the ground game and what do you got?






















Some serious skills!




















I was impressed at how well the students picked up the techniques and the kind of work ethic they all possessed.

And that last quality is so important. Having all the right techniques but having the wrong attitude and no work ethic in your training will get you nowhere.

Speaking of techniques, many were covered during the Camp: Gi, No Gi, in the Cage, From Standing Up, Sanshou, and on and on for 5 straight hours.

Luckily we filmed everything. So if you were present and would like to review everything that was covered or you missed the event and would like to learn some of the techniques that Gokor has kept secret in the past, you'll soon be able to own it on DVD.

Some of these techniques were only kept for Gokor's top fighters but Gokor felt the time was right to share them and make them available to everyone.

As soon as they're ready I'll make sure to let you know.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

Mental Appetites

William James was quoted saying: "We do not sing because we are happy. We are happy because we sing." Along those same lines "We do not stop working and playing because we grow old, we grow old because we stop working and playing."

I don't know about you, but these quotes really hit home for me.

Staying young and vibrant is a top priority of mine and although making sure you exercise properly and regularly is very important to keep yourself aligned with that goal, having the right mental attitude is where it all begins.

There's a section in Zig Ziglar's book: "See You at The Top", chapter 3 to be exact, where he clearly explains what one needs to do to: Feed your Mind.

Aren't we all eager to fill our bellies and this on a timely basis 3 times a day?

But when do you deliberately, on a pre-determined schedule feed your mind?

Accidentally?

Occasionally?

When it's convenient?

Wouldn't it be marvelous if it had been arranged so that an empty head, like an empty stomach, wouldn't let its owner rest until its owner put something in it?

You need to constantly read books, listen to inspiring CDs, attend seminars and as martial artists the same is true about your development.

Get involved, read FSD's prime literature, watch FSD DVDs and attend live trainings and seminars so you stay motivated and constantly growing.

Speaking of DVDs we'll have a brand new one for you next week.

I'll let you know the details as soon as they become available.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

When there's proof it's too late

Yesterday I was reflecting on my father's influence in my life and something dawned on me.

In life you can produce 1 of 2 things:

Reasons or Results.

And we all know Reasons don't count. You can come up with all sorts of reasons why you can't do something. You can even go around telling people what you used to be able to do.

Doesn't matter.

All that matters is the results you can still produce.

And that's all I've ever seen from him: Results.

No excuses, no story, no blaming others.

There's a saying that goes: "When there's proof it's too late".

In other words, do what you have to do and when it's done let everybody else wonder how you did it.

This way you don't have to lie, back pedal, lose face, or make up excuses why you didn't follow through on that thing you said you were going to do.

Keep most of your goals secret, that way, if you catch yourself not following through on some of them you only have to answer to one person: Yourself.

You want to lose weight? Get out there and make it happen.

You want to quit smoking? Decide today: "No more!"

Unhappy with your life? Change it for the better.

Feel like you were meant for more than this? I hear ya.

Stay on the path of Self-Mastery.

Sibok M

P.S. Not reaching your fitness goals? Here's an easy, proven, step by step way of getting the results you really want when it comes to your health and fitness.

Basic Station Kit

What's NEW at Fang Shen Do

I don't know about you but it seems like this summer is going to be "hectic".

"Crazy" actually.

Which is how my week has been.

Therefore explaining my apparent e-mail absence.

There are lots of things brewing here at FSD Central. Things that you'll find most interesting.

The first is a 2 disc set (maybe 3) of Gokor Chivichyan's Grappling Seminar, filmed here at the Pagoda during our Fight Camp. This set is loaded with never before seen techniques and strategies used specifically for the ground game. Some of these techniques were kept only for Gokor's fighters in order for them to have an edge on their competitors and now they are available to you. Look for the release of these DVDs shortly.

The second is a total re-vamp of our website. I think you'll be pretty impressed with the new fonctionality and the on-line module where people from all over the world or existing students can go to brush up on their skills, learn the curriculum, test for rank, and become instructors in FSD. It will be one of a kind that's for sure and we can't wait to reveal it to you.

Third is a brand new 3000 + square foot new location for Ottawa area students. The headquarter school will have a new home by July 12th. The place will be state of the art and will be designed to reproduce the look and feel of our Private Training Pagoda in Casselman.
Look for details concerning the Grand-Opening shortly.

Fourth is the natural progression to Station Training. The "Advanced Kit".
This one has been a beast to pin down and complete because of the vast amount of exercises and cards contained within it. If you loved the Basic and Intermediate set or you feel like you're ready for a challenge you'll find that and more in the Advanced Kit.

Fifth. 45 NEW DVD titles coming your way. We've told you before we're crazy about the martial arts. We love every aspect of it and this passion needs to be released as well as shared with you.
Training in the martial arts definitely is a journey and there is no limit to what you can learn. Look for titles ranging from Energy Drills (Contact Drill 1 to 8), Chi Sao, Phon Sao Rotation, Sanshou Fighting Skills, Advanced Kubotan (you know there are 12 other types of Kubotans right?), Kettlebells, Warrior Fitness for Women (Mastery Level) and the list goes on and on. All filmed in HD with the same high quality you've come to expect from FSD Products.

These are just some of the things coming your way shortly.

One thing we've learned a long time ago is never rest on your laurels and we make sure to practice what we preach.

Have you been slacking off? Been swayed by procrastination? Basking in complacency? Disappointed by your results?

Make sure to use your training as a tool. Develop Intensity and Power so you can transfer it to every area of your life.

Not training yet or you've got off track and missed some classes? Get started and get back on track here.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

New Focus on Results Seminar Video

I've never released any footage from a live Focus on Results event before.

Well, today all that is going to change.

Watch as regular people walk through arrows totaling 100 to 500 lbs of pressure on their necks. Yet all of them are smiling and cheering without an ounce of pain.

Weird huh?!

What do they know that you don't ?

See for yourself here.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

Focus on Results Seminar Part 2

In most self-defense classes you are taught that the throat is a main target to strike in case of an attack.




















This is true in most cases but when you look at these pictures it kind of makes you wonder just how tough your body is.

What do YOU think?

Every arrow requires 30 to 60 lbs of pressure to break one.

Some of these students are breaking 3 to 8 arrows representing 300 to 500 lbs of pressure for some.










































































Yet they all walked away unharmed?

Pretty cool?

I'll be releasing a video shortly with live footage of the event so you can see for yourself the determination and focus these students possessed to actually break the arrows.

Stay tuned,

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

Focus on Results

Had a full house Saturday at our annual Focus on Results Seminar in Montreal headed by Sijo J. Patenaude.

Why do so many people flock to this event every year? What do they all share in common?

It's definitely not a typical way of spending your Saturday afternoon lounging around. All of the participants shared this one unique quality: Taking Action

YOU are responsible for your success.

And you are usually only one decision away from success or failure.

Every personal development seminar we hold impresses upon you that whatever you set your mind on you can achieve.

In the case of Arrow Breaking, the act of breaking the arrows becomes the same as breaking a fear you might have.

This gives you a powerful metaphor you can use when facing fear, procrastination, criticism, or self-doubt and gets you to follow through on what you want to accomplish.

Will Arrow Breaking solve all of your problems or challenges?

Here's the issue.

It all depends what you do with the information. Breaking the arrow feels awesome but each day is a new day with a new set of challenges.

You need to break the conceptual arrow so to speak DAILY.

With new mental images like these deeply rooted in your psyche, you think you'll give up in the face of adversity?

I didn't think so.

Congratulations to all the participants, you were great.

I'll make sure to post the dates for the next one shortly.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

Full Contact Stick Fighting

Like the old saying goes:

"If you want to learn to swim you have to jump in the water, no one swims on dry land!"






















Learning to move the stick has many hidden benefits that translate well to other areas of your martial art training.

Testing what you know is inevitable and doing it Full Contact Style purges your memory bank.






















In a matter of seconds you have no choice but to use what works and discard (purge) what doesn't.

Doing this on a regular basis definitely gives you an edge and allows you to move and flow naturally without feeling held back.

The idea is to keep flowing, attacking and letting no fear stop you.

You can do this the hard way with stick fighting and a few bruises or you can do it the soft easy way...

Join us tomorrow in Montreal for an experience you'll never forget.

After you're through with the seminar, you'll never let anything stop you ever again whether it's fear, confidence issues, uncertainty, lack of vision, or failure to follow through.

Join Sijo (our founder), myself and a huge group of people this Saturday and permanently turn fear into power.

*Warning* This session is dynamic, highly motivating and carries a high risk of permanent behavior change to get you to dream big, accept nothing less than the best and attract everything you really want out of life.

We call it Focus on Results and it's happening at 3 pm tomorrow at my St-Denis School.

You can register here.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M

More Sanshou Pics

Many new pictures are trickling in from our Demonstration at this year's World Kobudo Convention.


























If you haven't yet seen the demo on video you can check it out here.

These pics are from the Sparring Section of our Demo.
























Integrating Punching, Kicking, Knees and Wrestling with Sanshou rules is a great way to build a strong foundation skill wise and teaches you to exploit an opponent's momentary lack of balance and use it against him with pin point accuracy.

MMA or Mixing the arts is more than just doing Boxing, Muay Thai and Jiu-Jitsu.

More and more schools are realizing this, every art has something to bring to the table but the secret is in the way you integrate them together the way FSD has done so well.

Come train with us and see what I mean.

Master Yourself,

Sibok M