Screen addiction in kids is becoming a growing concern amongst parents in nearly every household. Kids today spend more time on screens than ever before, with some reports showing up to nine hours a day. Parents face a constant battle trying to set boundaries, only to be met with tantrums, arguments, or even deception. This…
Balancing a demanding training schedule with daily life can feel like an uphill battle for martial artists. Between work, family, and hours in the dojo, it’s easy to overlook self-care. Yet, neglecting it could limit progress and even lead to burnout. Learning to master work life balance in both your personal life and martial arts…
In a world where stress and uncertainty can overshadow our days, the Japanese concept of unlocking the power of ikigai offers a refreshing perspective. Translating to “reason for being,” ikigai is about finding joy and purpose in daily life. It’s not just a lofty idea; it’s a practice rooted in aligning your passions, skills, and…
Discover how your thoughts shape martial arts success. Think about the last time you procrastinated on something important. Maybe you convinced yourself there’d be a better time to start, or perhaps doubt crept in, making the task feel impossible. Those thoughts didn’t just stay in your head—they shaped how you felt, what you did, and…
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…
A good karate diet fuels your body for intense training and quick recovery. It’s not just about eating healthy; it’s about eating smart. The right mix of foods can boost energy, sharpen focus, and speed up muscle repair. Whether you’re preparing for a sparring session or maintaining stamina through kata practice, proper nutrition is key….
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 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…
Have you ever wondered why life feels so chaotic at times? Many of us lose touch with who we really are, buried under the pressures of daily life. Learning how to connect with your inner self, isn’t just about feeling good. It’s about aligning with what genuinely makes you healthy and happy. You’ll find greater…
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…
Describe a man who has positively impacted your life. Let me tell you about my martial arts mentor and how he impacted my life. Stepping into Alan’s dojo for the first time, I felt something intangible yet powerful. The space buzzed with quiet focus and unmistakable energy. This intensity wasn’t intimidating—it was inviting. From the…
What skills or lessons have you learned recently? In martial arts, the journey is just as important as the destination. Whether you’re stepping into a dojo for the first time or preparing for a black-belt test, one thing is certain: failure is inevitable. But far from being a setback, failure is a vital part…