Jion Kata stands out as a cornerstone in traditional Shotokan karate. Known for its straightforward yet powerful movements, it provides martial artists with a solid foundation in balance, precision, and control. This kata features a blend of blocks, strikes, and stances that emphasise both offensive and defensive skills, making it a vital part of karate…
Something on your “to-do list” that never gets done. Procrastination is like a friend who shows up uninvited but stays forever. We’ve all been there—staring at looming deadlines while scrolling aimlessly through social media or cleaning the refrigerator. But why do we procrastinate, and can we break free of its grip? Let’s pull back the…
What books do you want to read? Here are my top 12 must-read martial arts books. Martial arts isn’t just about throwing punches or mastering high kicks—it’s a way of thinking, a lifestyle. Behind every discipline lies a rich history, deep philosophy, and practical wisdom. While hands-on training is essential, the right books can expand…
What is your favorite animal? Ever wondered what makes the lion the ultimate symbol of strength and leadership? It’s more than just their roar. The lion’s mindset is grounded in confidence, focus, and an unshakable sense of purpose. They don’t second-guess their abilities or hesitate when it’s time to act. That same mentality—the perfect mix…
What makes a good leader? Training leaders early in martial arts is more than mastering skills; it’s about guiding others to grow. Waiting to train leaders until they earn their black belts misses crucial opportunities to build these traits early. By nurturing leadership qualities before this milestone, we can prepare future black belts who inspire…
What is your mission? Why Women Aware Defence Is More Than Just a Blog to Me I’ve poured my heart into this blog because it represents something bigger than words on a screen. “Women Aware Defence” is my way of standing up for empowerment, safety, and self-worth. Women face unique challenges, and knowing how to…
What could you do differently? Why is it that we’re often our worst critics, even in the dojo? Martial artists put ridiculous amounts of pressure on themselves—trying to perfect every movement, every kata, every sparring session. But here’s the truth: no one, not even the black-belt grandmasters, gets it all right every time. And that’s…
What is the greatest gift someone could give you? Imagine waking up in a world where kindness replaces hate. A world without fear of harm. This dream isn’t far-fetched—it’s hopeful. A world with less violence wouldn’t just feel safer; it would open up healthier spaces for empathy and connection. From homes to streets, everyone deserves…
What are your biggest challenges? Are you like me and the thought of staying fit during seasonal chaos sometimes feels like a double-edged sword. This especially true for martial artists or fitness enthusiasts. On one side, there’s joy, family, and a feast that never ends. On the other side? Disrupted routines, endless temptations, and a…
What relationships have a positive impact on you? The heart of martial arts and building connections with other martial artists isn’t just about sharing techniques or training drills. These relationships have deeply shaped my growth—not just as a martial artist, but as a person. Training alongside others has taught me patience, built trust, and inspired…
How are you creative? What drives creativity in martial arts and in life? For me, martial arts became the foundation for unlocking this potential. Over time, I realised the movements and principles weren’t just about kicking or punching—they were about seeing the world differently. Let me show exactly what I mean. Seeing Patterns in Movement…
Who are the biggest influences in your life? You maybe thinking to yourself who is Eddie Perino? He is a renowned motivational speaker, that has a way of connecting with his audience that feels deeply personal. His words don’t just inspire—they ignite a fire within. For me, his message wasn’t just transformative; it was a…
Are you a good judge of character? Overall I would like to think of myself as a good judge of character. This valuable in self defence, that you learn to trust your intuition. You see , understanding whether you’re a good judge of character can reveal a lot about how you perceive others. It also…
When are you most happy? Happiness is one of the simplest, yet most profound emotions anyone can experience. It turns out, happiness can manifest in various forms and moments depending on a person’s passions, values, and relationships. For some, it may be the sound of laughter shared with friends. For others, it’s the quiet peace…
What was the last thing you did for play or fun? Last night the dojo had never more felt alive as we gathered for our annual Christmas party, an event bursting with laughter, camaraderie, and holiday cheer. Students, instructors, and families came together to celebrate not only the season but also the strong bonds we’ve…