There has been a lot of interest in an article featured in The Times newspaper today (Saturday 28th March.) Whilst this is a wonderful nugget of historical evidence from 1948, we are reminded of the ethos of our sport and our Club, especially at this time, when we need to focus on well-being, patience, and control.
In these challenging times, it is particularly useful to reflect on the holistic side to our Martial Arts practice.
As quoted in the article, Gunji Koizumi said, ‘the aim of martial training is to stop fighting.’ Developing your own well-being practice can really help with nurturing mind and body, and following the ethical principles of the Judo, and the Shotokan Karate Dojo Kun can be a valuable aid in staying focused.
Judo Moral Code:
Courtesy: Be polite to other people
Courage: face difficulty without fear
Fair play: be a good sport, play by the rules
Honour: Fairness in beliefs and actions
Modesty: Be without vanity or boastfulness.
Respect: Regard for others
Self- control: Control over yourself and actions.
Friendship: Be a good friend, be helpful and kind.
Hygiene: Wear a clean judogi. No shoes on the mat. Zoris worn off the mat.
Shotokan Karate Dojo Kun:
Seek perfection of character
Be faithful
Endeavour
Respect others.
Refrain from violent behaviour
(Please note that translations differ slightly, the essence of the message remains the same.)
Stay safe, stay well.
Ouss