This week's theme is centered around dragons. Dragon Breathing is what we are calling this particular challenge, which is a mindfulness and meditation practice. Mindfulness, is a big part of our training in martial arts. And during stressful times, we want to be able to teach tools to our students that they can all access to build resilence, and peace of mind. This one is so important. We will cover how to practice and the ideas about our "dragoness" in classes. We also encourage our adults
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Hate, Nazis, and Curious kids
Today when I came in to the dojang, the first thing I was presented with was that some of the kids were talking about “nazi” things, playing at shooting each other, and calling each other nazis. What follows is a summary of what I discussed with the kids 3rd grade and older.
So, I sat down with the kids, 3rd grade and older to discuss this in terms of appropriate behavior, language, and subject matter for the dojang. With the bottom line, first and most import
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EXPLORING FAMILY TAEKWONDO AND ATTENTION DEFICIT DISORDER
Abstract (summary): Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is the most common condition in children worldwide. Families are often challenged by the condition and some are utilizing family Taekwondo as a tool to manage unwanted symptoms.
The purpose of this qualitative research study was to explore the impact of family Taekwondo on the functioning of the family and child with ADHD, who were participating in Taekwondo programs in southern
Over the years, I have collected videos of all the forms and made them available on YouTube. To help people locate them, I created a YouTube channel called "Mercer Island Martial Arts - Forms". Since there is a belt tests next week, I thought I'd post a link for everybody again.
Thanks, Kenny
Here is the latest edition/episode of the MIMA news. This program is entirely filmed, planned, reported by, and uploaded by the young martial artists of MIMA. They are a remarkable bunch indeed. And how great that they are learning how to communicate with such a powerful tool. I really admire these kids, the ones in front of the camera, and behind it as well.
Find more videos like this on Mercer Island Martial Arts
For the upcoming Halloween party, I made this short video will show you most of the things you want to know about the party.
We could use some help with the food drive. Would you be able to take a collection box, like the one in the picture to your work, school, community activity? Would you invite kids to the awesome party (there are invitations at the school) -- for a fun day of bouncy house, costumes, demonstrations, cotton candy, and candy, and did I mention candy?? It is the 26th --- entry "fee" is a donation to the food bank.
If you would host, as it were, a donation box let us know and it will be d
We are holding try out for the 2013-2014 Demonstration Team on Thursday Sept 19th at 5:30pm.
Try out to have the opportunity to be part of a small group of dedicated, like minded, motivated students.
Demo teams build high levels of confidence because students are taught how to perform in public. There’s an awesome rush that comes from performing for your community and getting accolades!
Team members will have the opportunity to further your training faster while developing leadership skills even
With back to school coming up quickly, I believe it is a great time to refresh or address safety tips and plans with the kids. So, I am going to post about several of the things I try to cover with the kids I teach each year.
"In 2010, one-fifth (19%) of all children 5-9 who were killed in traffic crashes were pedestrians." Source: Traffic safety facts: Pedestrians, NHTSA 2012
Here are some ideas, and ... Click here for the original post I wrote on Mercer Island Patch
These five points have helped hundreds of people JUST LIKE YOU Discover issues with starting a After School that they NEVER would have considered – issues to be Excited about, WARY about, and everything in between!
1) Safety
The number one MOST important thing that should be stressed in an After School Program is safety. From the drills that are done in class, to the way the warm-up is presented, Safety has to be paramount through and through.
You would think that because it’s “Martial Art
Be Aware
Be aware of what you're doing, beginning with your breathing. "I am aware that I am breathing." "I am aware that I am listening." "I am aware that this too shall pass."
Nobody Can Make You Anything
Nobody can make you sad, angry, happy, depressed, or grouchy; you don't give anyone that much power over you. Only you can make yourself anything. Maintain control of your own emotions and thinking.
"Everything can be taken from a man or a woman but one thing: the last of human freedoms to choose one's attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one's own way. "
Viktor E. Frankl
Embrace and Relax
When in a bad position, when under pressure, instead of struggling and wasting energy, embrace your opponent and relax. Your time will come.
Tap Out, Return
When someone wants to argue or fight or make you struggle, just tap out. It's a lot better than getting hurt or causing someone else pain. Tap out and don't worry, you'll be able to come back soon enough. (Note: this may be the best relationship advice you ever receive).
Use Surprise
Surprise your opponent by doing exactly the opposite of what's expected. If someone expects you to be hurt, be honored. If they expect you to be angry and upset, surprise them with your calmness. Train yourself this way and you almost always have the advantage.
