Thursday, October 30, 2008

Karate Kids - Keeping their Cool


Anger management: Explore your anger to gain control

Anger is natural, but it can be destructive when expressed inappropriately. Gauge your anger level and identify your unhealthy expressions of anger.

Do you slam down the phone when faced with endless computerized voice prompts? Have you gotten into a shouting match with a stranger over a parking space at the mall? Ever put your fist through the wall after an argument with your spouse?

This is not anger management at its finest. Although anger is a natural emotion, it may be getting the best of you. Instead of expressing your anger in a healthy and assertive way, you may be expressing it in a hostile, aggressive manner — a manner that could lead to violence and a slew of personal and professional consequences.

Here are some points to consider when assessing whether you express your anger in a healthy or unhealthy manner, and how to get a better grasp of anger management.

Understand your anger
Anger itself isn't bad. Expressed appropriately, anger can be healthy. It can help protect you from dangerous situations, energize you to resolve problems or lead to sociocultural reforms, for instance.

Sure, everyday frustrations, impatience and resentment can all cause your temper to flare. For many people, these are fleeting moments. They're able to take these situations in stride and quickly return to a sense of calm without exploding.

But if your blood boils after minor irritations — such as losing that coveted parking space — or if you're constantly seething, you may need to improve how you're managing anger. Anger that's out of control can be destructive, leading to problems in your relationships, at work, in your enjoyment of life and with your health. You could even be arrested or face other legal problems.
Determine your anger level

So, just how angry are you? This chart is a barometer of sorts. Although it doesn't score your anger, you can use it as a tool to raise your self-awareness about your level of anger.
To use the chart, see if the words on the left describe your behavior or thoughts over the past week. Check the ones that apply to your anger.
Gauge your Anger...

Words `````````````` Check if it applies

Angry

Bitter

Rebellious

Spiteful

Deceived

Annoyed

Furious

Resentful

Bad-tempered

Ready to fight

Yelling

Frustrated

Disappointed


If you have several check marks, your anger level is on the high side. Try using anger management tips for several weeks to see if you can more effectively control your anger. You may also want to consult an anger management professional to help you learn to handle anger in a healthier way and to better understand what's behind your anger. Talk to your health care provider about resources, such as counseling or anger management classes.

You can repeat this exercise over time to see if your ability to manage your anger improves.

MORE ON THIS TOPIC

Examine your anger patterns
Why do you tend to fly off the handle more than others seem to? Anger responses can become habitual. That is, you may respond automatically to a situation that makes you angry, with little pause to think about your reactions. The intensity of your anger may even catch you by surprise.


How do you express your anger?

Consider these questions to assess your anger responses:

Do you express anger in a way that overwhelms you and others?

Do you get angry more often than most people you know?

Do you get angrier than is necessary?

Do you use threatening language or gestures?

Do you get angry enough to hit, throw or kick things, people or animals?

Do you seethe for hours?

Do you hide angry feelings from others or try to suppress your feelings?

Do you use alcohol or drugs to calm your rage?

Do you experience physical reactions such as muscle tension or a racing heart when you get angry?

Does expressing your anger usually leave you feeling better about yourself and the person who angered you?

Identify the ways you express anger to help you determine if you need to change how you respond to upsetting situations. You may react too aggressively or even too passively. In either case, you can learn new methods to replace old, unhealthy habits. If your level of anger is high or you tend to express anger in an unhealthy way, make plans to deal with your anger.
Aim for constructive expressions of your anger

Anger management is not about stopping you from expressing your anger entirely. It's OK to feel angry. In fact, trying to suppress or deny your anger can lead to a host of physical complaints, such as headaches, depression, stress, and sleeping or eating difficulties. It can also lead you to erupt into violent behavior if your anger has been simmering without an outlet.
The key, though, is to express your anger in an assertive, controlled way. Managing anger effectively can benefit you and those around you. Your health may improve, you'll feel better about yourself, and strained relationships may heal when you control your anger.




Roger

Mr. Boggs - Sensei
Goshin Karate & Judo Academy
6245 E. Bell Road #120
Scottsdale, AZ. 85254
480-951-2236

http://www.GoshinKarate.com/
http://www.GoshinCares.com/
http://www.GoshinGirls.com/
http://www.goshingear.com/

Arizona: Taekwondo Karate kids Ju-jitsu / Jiu-jitsu Grappling Kickboxing Hapkido Judo Kung Fu Bruce Lee's Jeet Kune Do Escrima Kali Arnis Wushu Aikido Judo Kempo / Kenpo Yoga TaiChi Self Defense Training Practical Street Defense Women's Self Defense Stranger Danger Bully Busting Workplace violence School violence Personal Training Executive Self Defense Bodyguard Boxing Weapons Extreme Martial Arts (XMA) Black Belt Training Advanced

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Karate Kids are Drinking Water


Drinking Water to Maintain Good Health

Water - The Beverage Your Body Needs Most
Drinking water is so important for good health. When you were a kid in school, you learned that each molecule of water is made up of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. You may also have learned that it was great fun to fill up your squirt guns with water, at least until the principal caught you. What you may not have learned, however, was how much water you needed in order to be a healthy human being.

Why You Need to Drink Water
Your body is estimated to be about 60 to 70 percent water. Blood is mostly water, and your muscles, lungs, and brain all contain a lot of water. Your body needs water to regulate body temperature and to provide the means for nutrients to travel to all your organs. Water also transports oxygen to your cells, removes waste, and protects your joints and organs.

Signs of Dehydration
You lose water through urination, respiration, and by sweating. If you are very active, you lose more water than if you are sedentary. Diuretics such as caffeine pills and alcohol result in the need to drink more water because they trick your body into thinking you have more water than we need.

Symptoms of mild dehydration include chronic pains in joints and muscles,lower back pain, headaches and constipation. A strong odor to your urine, along with a yellow or amber color indicates that you may not be getting enough water. Note that riboflavin, a B Vitamin, will make your urine bright yellow. Thirst is an obvious sign of dehydration and in fact, you need water long before you feel thirsty.

How Much Water do You Need to Drink?
A good estimate is to take your body weight in pounds and divide that number in half. That gives you the number of ounces of water per day that you need to drink. For example, if you weigh 160 pounds, you should drink at least 80 ounces of water per day. If you exercise you should drink another eight ounce glass of water for every 20 minutes you are active. If you drink alcohol, you should drink at least an equal amount of water. When you are traveling on an airplane, it is good to drink eight ounces of water for every hour you are on board the plane. If you live in an arid climate, you should add another two servings per day. As you can see, your daily need for water can add up to quite a lot.

Twenty percent of your water need will come from the foods you eat. The rest of your water need should come from the beverages you drink. Water is the best choice. Sodas have a lot of sugar in them, so if you drink sodas, you may take in more calories than you need. Herbal teas that aren't diuretic are fine. Sports drinks contain electrolytes and may be beneficial, just look out for added sugar and calories that you don't need. Juices are good because they have vitamins and nutrients.

Caffeinated beverages will also add to your daily water need. Even though caffeine is a diuretic, if you regularly consume caffeine, your body will regulate itself to that diuretic effect.
Drink Enough WaterIt may be difficult to drink enough water on a busy day. Be sure you have water handy at all times by keeping a bottle for water with you when you are working, traveling, or exercising. If you get bored with plain water, add a bit of lemon or lime for a touch of flavor. There are some brands of flavored water available, but watch for extra calories.


Roger

Mr. Boggs - Sensei
Goshin Karate & Judo Academy
6245 E. Bell Road #120
Scottsdale, AZ. 85254
480-951-2236

http://www.GoshinKarate.com/
http://www.GoshinCares.com/
http://www.GoshinGirls.com/
http://www.GoshinGear.com
Providing Instruction/Lessons in Martial Arts, Self Defense, Judo and Karate, for Kids, Teens and Adults in the Cave Creek, Phoenix, Scottsdale and the entire north valley of Arizona since 1991.

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Karate Mom's Dealing with Stress



I was in the grocery store recently and witnessed a child saying all of the wrong things to his extremely overtired, and overstressed mom.


The 10 Worst to Say to a Stressed Mom
1) “It’s not that big of a deal”
2) “Is this because of your diet?”
3) “I have to go to the Bathroom…really bad”
4) “Mom, MOM, MOM, MOM, MOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMM.”
5) “What do you think about me getting my belly button pierced?”
6) “I think Dad is in the bedroom talking to his secretary.”
7) “Those pants do not really fit you anymore, huh?”
8) “I don’t know where Bobby is! Was I supposed to be watching him?”
9) “What’s wrong now?”
10) “Are we there yet?”



The 10 Best Things to Say to a Stressed Mom
1) “How can I help?”
2) “Do you want to take a nap while I _____ for you?”
3) “Thank you for your help with everything.”
4) “I really appreciate the help you gave me on my homework this weekend.”
5) “Dad told me to tell you he loves you.”
6) “Just tell me what to do and I will do it.”
7) “Why don’t I watch Bobby while you get a coffee.”
8) “You look nice today.”
9) “I forgot to tell you I got an A on my science test.”
10) “I love you.”


Print this out, put it on your fridge and add your own in the comments.


Roger

Mr. Boggs - Sensei
Goshin Karate & Judo Academy
6245 E. Bell Road #120
Scottsdale, AZ. 85254
480-951-2236

http://www.GoshinKarate.com/
http://www.GoshinCares.com/
http://www.GoshinGirls.com/
http://www.GoshinGear.com/

PROVIDING INSTRUCTION: Karate for Kids Arizona Karate Lessons Arizona Karate School for Kids Child Karate Phoenix Martial Arts for Children Arizona Karate Scottsdale Kid Karate Arizona Karate for Child Self Defense for Women Martial Arts Carefree Martial Arts Arizona Cardio Kick Boxing Class Kick Boxing North Phoenix Kick Boxing Arizona Tae Kwon Do Scottsdale Karate Cave Creek kids children families Arizona Self Defense

Monday, October 27, 2008

Goshin Karate - Halloween Safety Tips for Families




10 Halloween Safety Tips and Tricks for Children, Parents, Pets, and Families

Halloween is a fun and exciting holiday for children and adults. But in order to keep Halloween and fair for children, teens, pets, and parents, everyone should be aware—and commit to– these 10 Halloween safety tips. Trick or Treating is always more fun when nobody gets hurt!

1) Guarantee Halloween Supervision: No child should trick or treat by themselves even if they’re in a familiar neighborhood. Make sure a parent, other trusted adult, or teen-aged sibling or sitter can take your son or daughter from house to house.
a. If your child wants to expresses that they’re “big enough” to go without supervision, see if you feel comfortable allowing them to approach the houses on their own while you stay in full view on the sidewalk.
b. Know the route your child will be taking if you aren’t personally going with them.
c. Teens should go in a group—they might be older but the buddy system is always safer (and more fun!) than going it alone.
d. If the supervisor is a teen, be sure to discuss ground rules so everyone’s on the same page.

2) Establish a Curfew: If your children are going with a sitter, older sibling, or other trusted adult, ensure that you agree on a time by which they should be home. Time discrepancies can cause undue anxiety—get it out of the way so you don’t have to think about it.
a. So there isn’t any question about what time it is, ensure that your child wears a watch s/he can easily see in the dark.
b. Make sure s/he knows how important it is to be home on time.
c. The adult or supervisor may want to carry a cell phone for quick communication—however, be sure that the supervisor isn’t talking or texting while s/he should be paying attention to your child!

3) Ensure Powerful Character: Even if you’re not the one accompanying your child on the Trick or Treating Trip, talk to your child about using powerful words (like Integrity) doing the right thing even when nobody’s looking. Encourage your children to make good choices based on values and character.
a. Vandalizing someone else’s house or property is never OK even if you’ve heard that “mischief night” or Halloween are exceptions. They’re not.
b. Hurting or throwing things at animals or other children won’t be tolerated.
c. In the immortal words of my grandmother, Emma, “Please and Thank-You... are not dirty words.”

4) Remember Halloween Costume Safety: Some costumes might be cute or funny—but if the children can’t see well out of the masks or can’t move well in the body of the costume, they aren’t the best choice. Children need to be able to see so that they can easily cross the street safely, walk up and down steps without incident, and move out of the way of danger, if necessary, with ease.
a. Costumes should be fire retardant or flame resistant. Candles and jack o’ lanterns are common on Halloween and accidents sometimes happen.
b. Ensure good peripheral vision out of the eye holes of masks, if used.
c. Be careful of Halloween props: If swords, sabers, pitch forks, or other items are used, be sure that they’re smooth, safe, flexible, and of no danger to anyone who might touch it, trip over it, or fall on it.
d. Make sure the costume fits. Shoes shouldn’t be too lose or too tight (even if they look good!) and costumes shouldn’t drag on the ground.
e. Just a note: Please refrain from putting your youngsters in “sexy” Halloween costumes. They send a twisted message that is both unintentional and inappropriate. Need I say more?
5) Be Pumpkin Safe: Carving pumpkins can be a fun activity to do with children. However, young children should not be using sharp knives to carve out the pumpkin themselves. An adult should do that part.
a. While there are kits that allow children to do some carving, be careful. Children can still cut themselves. If your child is using such a kit, be sure to educate fully and supervise.
b. You can always have your child decorate the pumpkin with a permanent marker and other fun items like feathers, paints, stickers, and googly eyes. This is safer and just as fun.

6) Make your Home Halloween Safe: Nothing ruins Halloween fun more than an accident on your property! While Halloween is often about “darkness” and “spooky props” remember safety first.
a. Your home should be well lit so that no child (or adult) trips over anything on the way to or from your door.
b. Set candles and jack o’ lanterns away from the door and walkway so that no costume is accidentally set on fire. Keep paper or other decorations away from any fire. You can also choose to use a battery powered light source or light stick in the place of live candles.
c. Be careful that no fire source is within reach of your pets. Wagging tails and excited animals can lead to accidents when fire is around. In addition, leave pets inside around Halloween time—aside from some stupid tricks some may want to play, the neighborhood children may not know that feeding animals candy can be dangerous.

7) Educate Children about Halloween Safety: It’s been a year. Refresh your children’s memory about obeying traffic laws, not going inside anyone’s home, staying on sidewalks (when available), and being aware of the surroundings.
a. Children should carry a flashlight if they’re going in the late afternoon or evening time.
b. Children and teens should wear reflective clothes or reflective tape so that cars can see them.
c. Remind children not to get into anyone’s car and to always remain with the group and teen/adult supervisor.
d. Children should stay on a familiar, approved route—no short cuts through yards, parks, back alleys or dimly lit, less traveled areas. They might be used to taking short cuts across neighbor’s yards during day light hours, so be sure to impress upon them the importance of staying on populate paths during Halloween.

(8) Let’s talk Candy: Children can rack up a lot of candy on Halloween. Make sure your child isn’t eating it until you’ve taken a look through it and discarded anything opened or sketchy-looking.
a. Feed children a good, nutritious dinner before they go Trick or Treating so they don’t make a meal of the candy they collect from the neighbors.
b. Make sure you read candy ingredients if you are unsure if they contain anything to which your child may be allergic. If you still are unsure after reading the contents, you can always make your own treats.
c. While you don’t need to replace all candy with carrots, you also don’t have to allow your children to eat all their candy at once! Perhaps you’ve read some of my articles on how much sugar is poured into the items children eat and drink these days. While Halloween only comes on comes once per year, that doesn’t mean that the children need to eat a year’s worth of candy in once sitting!

9) Keep Pets Safe: There are a lot of people around on Halloween and not all of them know how to handle themselves around your family pets.
a. Warn children against feeding candy to pets or neighborhood animals. This can cause the animals to get very sick and can attract other, perhaps not as welcomed animals, to your child’s bag of candy!
b. Put a sign on your door that you have a pet (yes, even if friendly!) so that children are aware before ringing your doorbell. You don’t want them to accidentally open your door and let the cat out or be licked by a dog when they’re scared or allergic.
c. Pets might look cure in costumes but make sure that the costumes are safe and comfortable for the animal in question!

10) Prepare Ahead: We still have a couple of days before Halloween so safety preparations can be made. Don’t wait until the day to talk about how to stay safe and make good choices on Halloween.
a. Make sure that your child knows his name, address and phone number. If s/he gets separated from the group, you can be reached. For young children, an address tag can be discreetly attached to their costume.
b. Review “Stop, Drop, and Roll.” While we are all aware that we need to be vigilant about candles, jack o’ lanterns, and other possible outside fire sources on Halloween, not everyone might. Teaching your children to Stop, Drop, and Roll can be a life saver. Talk about watching where you go but also what to do in the rare event that something on them catches fire.
c. Remind them that they can call 9-1-1 to get the police if there is an emergency. Go over some examples of emergencies in which 9-1-1 would be helpful or necessary.

From the Goshin Karate & Judo Academy family to yours, have a very Safe, Fun, and Happy Halloween!

Do you have any great Halloween Tips for other families? -------- Please share below
This Article is published courtesy of Dr. Robyn Silverman. She is a leading Child and Adolescent Development Specialist with a focus on character education and body/self esteem development during childhood, adolescence, and young adulthood.
Roger

Mr. Boggs - Sensei
Goshin Karate & Judo Academy
6245 E. Bell Road #120
Scottsdale, AZ. 85254
480-951-2236

http://www.GoshinKarate.com/
http://www.GoshinCares.com/
http://www.GoshinGirls.com/
http://www.GoshinGear.com/
Providing Instruction/Lessons in Martial Arts, Self Defense, Judo and Karate, for Kids, Teens and Adults in the Cave Creek, Phoenix, Scottsdale and the entire north valley of Arizona since 1991.

Sunday, October 26, 2008

Karate - Battle Cry



Kiai (ki ~ mind, ai ~harmony)

An outburst of energy. A loud yell, a battle cry, when you perform a kick or a hitting technique, or when you use strength when throwing your opponent.

Ki -- Thinking is no longer necessary (emotions do not get involved) when it becomes reflex. We all know that "reaction" is "thought before action". Reflex is absent of thought, like when you touch a hot stove. There is no though involved, you reflex according to your body's natural self-defense system. The heart may be the strongest physical muscle in the body but, it is also the most deceptive, it leads us by emotion. Emotion can take you farther than you want to go and keep you longer than you should stay. The tongue is the most versital muscle in the body but it can cut deeper than any sword. Emotion is not needed in combat. Only training properly everyday can ready you for that.



The concept of kiai - - means a manifestation irits, emission or projection of one's own internal energy, or ki, in a single, explosive focus of will.

Kiai is actually common in many martial arts, and is usually manifested through a shout although that is only its most trivial expression. First of all, kiai is always a psychophysical method to organize one’s own energy and will and, at the same time, it is a method of affecting another’s inner world. This can be for a variety of purposes: to distract and disturb the attacker, completely dissipating and neutralizing his attacks, to understand another’s intentions, to deceive them as to your own intentions, or to neutralize an attacker's strong points by manipulating spacing, timing, even breath. In karate practice, it is most commonly used as a way to focus and project one's own internal energy in order to increase the power of the technique.

Although kiai is commonly manifested through a shout, it may also be silent. A very important point, however, is the use of correct breathing such that it comes from the kata’s. connects our mind and body and is used to generate ki in the tanden and integrate it with our body's movements.

Kiai is, therefore, a means of expression of power, which at higher levels is what actually is responsible for guiding the partner and for the technique itself. Essentially, kiai consists of all parts of the body being unified and directed to one intent. Indeed, when making use of kiai during a technique, one has the feeling of the lungs expanding outwards and encompassing everything around, accompanied by a sensation of energy release and complete relaxation of the body, as if absolutely no force was used at all.

Kiai is an interesting concepts - kiai is a sudden release of one's own ki directed to one intent. Correct breathing and integration of mind and body are fundamental aspects of the kiai.

Roger

Mr. Boggs - Sensei
Goshin Karate & Judo Academy
6245 E. Bell Road #120
Scottsdale, AZ. 85254
480-951-2236

http://www.GoshinKarate.com/
http://www.GoshinCares.com/
http://www.GoshinGirls.com/
http://www.GoshinGear.com
Arizona: Taekwondo Karate kids Ju-jitsu / Jiu-jitsu Grappling Kickboxing Hapkido Judo Kung Fu Bruce Lee's Jeet Kune Do Escrima Kali Arnis Wushu Aikido Judo Kempo / Kenpo Yoga TaiChi Self Defense Training Practical Street Defense Women's Self Defense Stranger Danger Bully Busting Workplace violence School violence Personal Training Executive Self Defense Bodyguard Boxing Weapons Extreme Martial Arts (XMA) Black Belt Training Advanced

Friday, October 24, 2008

Karate School in North Scottsdale - supports St. Mary's


Last Year We collected over 200 pounds of Food for the St. Mary's Food Bank.
....................................... We need your help again this year.

WHAT IS A FOOD DRIVE?

A food drive is a way to collect nonperishable food items for the Food Bank to distribute to those most in need.
Our food drive kicks off today and will end on December 20th

DID YOU KNOW.

Currently, 1 in 5 children, 1 in 7 adults and 1 in 12 seniors in Arizona live in Poverty.
Here's how you can help...

Take action and elimate hunger! SUPPORT MY FOOD DRIVE!
Drop off your food donation at our location. Every little bit helps.

http://www.firstfoodbank.org/give.html - A Direct Link to St. Mary's


Food Items that we need Most......

Peanut butter
Tuna
Chunky Soups and Stews
Canned Vegetables and Fruits
Fruit Juice ( Plactic bottles only)
Rice & Pasta


Thanks in Advance your Support.


Roger

Mr. Boggs - Sensei
Goshin Karate & Judo Academy
6245 E. Bell Road #120
Scottsdale, AZ. 85254
480-951-2236


Providing Instruction/Lessons in Martial Arts, Self Defense, Judo and Karate, for Kids, Teens and Adults in the Cave Creek, Phoenix, Scottsdale and the entire north valley of Arizona since 1991.

Monday, October 20, 2008

Kids Safety - Halloween Safety - Self Defense



Halloween is such a fun time for children, but it is also a good time to teach them the important fundamentals of safety, and what potential hazards are out there with them, so that we all can return to our homes with a smile.

We hope that there is enough basic information below to help keep our little ones safe while out and about Trick-or-Treating this year.

Stay Safe and Happy Halloween from Goshin Karate & Judo Academy

Each year around Halloween, most the world turns their clocks back one hour.
---- This is a great time to change the batteries in your smoke detectors.


General Safety Tips

Home owners should prepare their home for trick-or-treaters by restraining dogs and other animals, removing obstacles from the front yard, and lighting the house well.

Provide treats that are individually wrapped candy or offer kids nonfood treats, such as erasers, stickers and gift certificates.

Battery powered lights and candles are a safer alternative to real candles with a flame that can pose a fire hazard.

If going to an adult Halloween party, make sure that you don't drink and drive. Use a designated driver if alcohol is being consumed.

Keep dried leaves, props, cornstalks, etc. away from all flames and heat sources.

Basic Halloween Safety Tips

Make sure your child eats dinner before setting out.

Jack-o'-lanterns with Battery powered lights are preferable to a real flame.

Stay together as a group if going out to Trick or Treat.

Carry a flashlight to light your way and to be seen by others.

It’s hard to see in the dark so walk, don't run.

Walk on the sidewalks avoid walking on the street.

If no sidewalk, walk on your left side of the street facing traffic.

Pay attention to all traffic signals.

Look both ways before crossing the street to check for cars.

Cross the street only at a corner, or in a crosswalk.

Do not hide, play, or dart out in the street between parked cars.

Stay in a familiar neighborhood.

Do not cut across yards or driveways.

Children of any age should be accompanied by an adult.

Wear a watch you can read in the dark.

Make sure the costume you wear does not drag on the ground.

Wear shoes that fit, even if they do not go with your costume.

Keep away from open fires and candles. Costumes can be extremely flammable.

Avoid wearing masks while walking from house to house.

Use face paint rather than masks or things that will cover your eyes.

Never approach a stranger’s vehicle.

Never accept treats or rides from a stranger’s vehicle.

Notify authorities if you see anything suspicious.

Carry only soft and flexible props with you.

Wear clothes that are light colored and or reflective.

Only go to houses that are well lit.

Stay away from and do not pet animals you do not know.

Be cautious of strangers.

Accept your treats at the door never go into a stranger's house.

Have a grown-up inspect your treats before eating.

Do not eat candy if the package is already opened.

Small, hard pieces of candy are a choking hazard for young children.




Mr. Roger Boggs - Sensei
Goshin Karate & Judo Academy
6245 E. Bell Road #120
Scottsdale, AZ. 85254
480-951-2236

http://www.GoshinKarate.com/
http://www.GoshinCares.com/
http://www.GoshinGirls.com/
http://www.GoshinGear.com


Providing Instruction/Lessons in Martial Arts, Self Defense, Judo and Karate, for Kids, Teens and Adults in the Cave Creek, Phoenix, Scottsdale and the entire north valley of Arizona since 1991.

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Jeet Kune Do / MMA Training Seminar - Scottsdale Arizona


Sifu, Paul Swaim Lewis,
AMAM-Magazine


I wanted to follow up on your first Arizona-based AMAM Jeet
Kune Do / MMA Seminars, Inc. you did at Goshin Karate &
Judo Academy, here in Scottsdale Arizona on Ocober 5th 2008.

The concepts you presented were a benefit to everyone that attended.

Even I “Roger Boggs – the owner of Goshin Karate” who holds
rank in many styles (Karate, Judo, Jujitsu, Taekwondo) learned
a couple of new techniques!

You did an absolutely awesome job.... of putting the seminar
together and I would recommend you to anyone.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Here is how the seminar was presented.

Sifu, Paul Swaim Lewis, introduced himself & explained his direct lineage to Bruce Lee, Larry Hartsell, Gene LeBell and Gokor Chivichyan.

Sifu, Paul Swaim Lewis started off by demonstrating some simple entries off the Boxer's lead-jabs, using several variations to counter & strike. Shortly, Sifu, added some basic takedown applications from standing positions. Then, he taught us some easy step-by-step takedowns, which isolated a single-leg into submissions: ankle-cranks, knee-bars, heel-hooks. All of which the class found easy to manuever into position.

Afterwards, Sifu, Paul Swaim Lewis demonstrated more submissions options, like neck-cranks, various chokes, modified Kimuras, Americana's with combined submissions (2-for-1), etc.

In the third hour, Sifu presented to our dojo how to string these techniques together in order to flow thru the specified "Fighting-Ranges" until we all reached a level of comfort & confidence.

Finally, he taught us about Trapping into various ranges. Sifu demonstrated a variety of Trapping opitions that flowed with the opponents' attacks. This is the range that seems to really impress most students... this is what Sigung Bruce Lee is so well respected for!

Near the end of this wonderful seminar, a visiting student weighing over 200lbs. asked if Sifu Paul could demonstrate the famous Bruce Lee "1 inch Punch" so, he had him volunteer.
Sifu, Paul Swaim Lewis requested a phonebook which he placed acrossed the students chest. Sifu, applied his version of the renowned forward punch with explosive power and Bio-mechanics... the impact sent the student a few feet backwards, falling off his feet onto his buttocks!
The student remarked, "Wow, I could feel that impact all the way down into my colon!"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Thanks you for taking the time to make Goshin part of your weekend.

It was a good opportunity for our students to see the similarities/
differences in techniques of other styles like the Jeet Kune Do
concepts you teach.

Let’s not forget Sensei's "Judo" Gene LeBell & Gokor Chivichyan at Hayastan Dojo
If you look at the way Bruce Lee
trained, the way he fought, and
many of the things he wrote, he
said the perfect style was no
style. You take a little something
from everything. You take the
good things from every different
discipline, use what works,
and you throw the rest away."


I might take you up on that weekend training camp.


... I can't believe there were no AMAM Ring Girls -- Just Kidding!

Keep in touch my friend.

If you would like more information on Sifu, Paul Swaim Lewis, check out his website at http://www.amam-magazine.com/

Roger

Mr. Boggs - Sensei
Goshin Karate & Judo Academy
6245 E. Bell Road #120
Scottsdale, AZ. 85254
480-951-2236

http://www.GoshinKarate.com/
http://www.GoshinCares.com/
http://www.GoshinGirls.com/
http://www.GoshinGear.com/


Providing Instruction/Lessons in Martial Arts, Self Defense, Judo and Karate for Kids, Teens and Adults in the Cave Creek, Phoenix, Scottsdale and the entire north valley of Arizona since 1991.

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Karate Time


How Much Is Your Time Worth?

I once sat in a seminar with world-renowned marketing expert
Jay Abraham. Jay is known for his work on his books titled
Guerilla Marketing. At the event he asked if anyone had ever
heard the saying “Time is Money?”

Of course, everyone raised their hands, with the typical nods
of heads and smiles. Everyone assumed they were on the same
page as he was. After the hands went down, he corrected them
by saying “Time is NOT Money – Time is Life.”

I thought about this and it really was an epiphany for me. If
you are not spending your time wisely then you’re not getting
the most out of life.

What is important to you?

What in life do you love doing most?
What in your life are you not spending enough time on?

What could you be doing better?

What do you do that you are terrible at?

If you honestly answer these questions, then why not
reevaluate your life and your time?

This may put things in perspective.

Have you ever considered what your time is worth to your
organization? Each time you do a task that someone who
gets paid $15 an hour could do, it is not saving you the $15,
it is costing you according to your pay scale. In addition, it
is also costing you in lost opportunity because your
time could be better used for big picture or strategic issues.

Seriously consider what your time is worth, and over the
next week write down all the tasks you can delegate that
you are currently doing yourself. Review the list and make
it happen. Take this time to work on your business and not
in it. In the end, you and your company will be better!

The chart below will give you a whole new perspective on the
value of your time. It shows you what your time is worth by
the hour and by the minute based on 244 eight-hour working
days per year (assuming a five-day work week less vacation
and holidays):


By Allie Alberigo

Roger

Mr. Boggs - Sensei
Goshin Karate & Judo Academy
6245 E. Bell Road #120
Scottsdale, AZ. 85254
480-951-2236

http://www.GoshinKarate.com/
http://www.GoshinCares.com/
http://www.GoshinGirls.com/
http://www.goshingear.com/

Providing Instruction/Lessons in Martial Arts, Self Defense, Judo and Karate for Kids, Teens and Adults in the Cave Creek, Phoenix, Scottsdale and the entire north valley of Arizona since 1991.

Monday, October 13, 2008

Karate Kids - Get Fit



Karate Kids get fit in Scottsdale, Arizona

Since Arizona has pretty much remove exercise and PE form the school system. Beside the 10 minutes of recess they get PE class has been reduced to one hour per week.

It is a good thing that kids exercise without even thinking of it. Just being active, like when you run around outside or play kickball at school, is a kind of exercise. What else counts as exercise? Playing sports, doing karate moves, dancing, doing push-ups, and even reaching down to touch your toes.

When you exercise, you're helping build a strong body that will be able to move around and do all the stuff you need it to do. Try to be active every day and your body will thank you later!

Exercise Makes Your Heart Happy
You may know that your heart is a muscle. It works hard, pumping blood every day of your life. You can help this important muscle get stronger by doing aerobic (say: air-o-bik) exercise.

Aerobic means "with air," so aerobic exercise is a kind of activity that requires oxygen. When you breathe, you take in oxygen, and, if you're doing aerobic exercise, you may notice you're breathing faster than normal. Aerobic activity can get your heart pumping, make you sweaty, and quicken your breathing.

When your give your heart this kind of workout on a regular basis, your heart will get even better at its main job - delivering oxygen (in the form of oxygen-carrying blood cells) to all parts of your body.

So you want to do some aerobic exercise right now? Try swimming, basketball, ice or roller hockey, karate, jogging (or walking quickly), in-line skating, soccer, cross-country skiing, biking, or rowing. And don't forget that skipping, jumping rope, and playing hopscotch are aerobic activities, too!

Exercise Strengthens Muscles
Another kind of exercise can help make your muscles stronger. Did you ever do a push-up or swing across the monkey bars at the playground? Those are exercises that can build strength. By using your muscles to do powerful things, you can make them stronger. For older teens and adults, this kind of workout can make muscles bigger, too.

Here are some exercises and activities to build strong muscles:
push-ups
pull-ups
tug-of-war
rowing
running
in-line skating
bike riding
karate

Exercise Makes You Flexible
Can you touch your toes easily without yelling ouch? Most kids are pretty flexible, which means that they can bend and stretch their bodies without much trouble. This kind of exercise often feels really good, like when you take a big stretch in the morning after waking up. Being flexible is having "full range of motion," which means you can move your arms and legs freely without feeling tightness or pain.

It's easy to find things to do for good flexibility:
tumbling and gymnastics
yoga
dancing, especially ballet
martial arts - karate
judo
simple stretches, such as touching your toes or side stretches

Exercise Keeps the Balance
Food gives your body fuel in the form of calories, which are a kind of energy. Your body needs a certain amount of calories every day just to function, breathe, walk around, and do all the basic stuff. But if you're active, your body needs an extra measure of calories or energy. If you're not very active, your body won't need as many calories. Whatever your calorie need is, if you eat enough to meet that need, your body weight will stay about the same. If you eat more calories than your body needs, it may be stored as excess fat.

Exercise Makes You Feel Good
It feels good to have a strong, flexible body that can do all the activities you enjoy - like running, jumping, and playing with your friends. It's also fun to be good at something, like scoring a basket, hitting a home run, or perfecting a dive. But you may not know that exercising can actually put you in a better mood.

When you exercise, your brain releases a chemical called endorphins (say: en-dor-funz), which may make you feel happier. It's just another reason why exercise is cool!


Roger

Mr. Boggs - Sensei
Goshin Karate & Judo Academy
6245 E. Bell Road #120
Scottsdale, AZ. 85254
480-951-2236

http://www.GoshinKarate.com/
http://www.GoshinCares.com/
http://www.GoshinGirls.com/
http://www.GoshinGear.com
Arizona: Taekwondo Karate kids Ju-jitsu / Jiu-jitsu Grappling Kickboxing Hapkido Judo Kung Fu Bruce Lee's Jeet Kune Do Escrima Kali Arnis Wushu Aikido Judo Kempo / Kenpo Yoga TaiChi Self Defense Training Practical Street Defense Women's Self Defense Stranger Danger Bully Busting Workplace violence School violence Personal Training Executive Self Defense Bodyguard Boxing Weapons Extreme Martial Arts (XMA) Black Belt Training Advanced

Friday, October 10, 2008

Karate Kids are dealing with Anger

Here are some practical suggestions for dealing with anger.

1. When you are angry say nothing.
If we speak in anger we will definitely aggravate the situation and quite likely hurt the feelings of others. If we speak in anger we will find that people respond in kind, creating a spiral of negative anger. If we can remain outwardly silent it gives time for the emotion of anger to leave us.

“When angry count to ten before you speak. If very angry, count to one hundred. “
- Thomas Jefferson

2. Be indifferent to those who seek to make us angry.
Some people may unfortunately take a malicious pleasure in trying to make you mad. However if we can feel indifferent to them and their words; if we feel it is beyond our dignity to even acknowledge them, then there words and actions will have no effect. Also if we do not respond in any way to their provocation they will lose interest and not bother us in the future.

3. Use reason to stop anger.
When we feel anger coming to the fore try to take a step back and say to yourself “This anger will not help me in any way. This anger will make the situation worse.” Even if part of us remains angry our inner voice is helping us to distance our self from the emotion of anger.

4. Look kindly upon Others.
Another visualisation is to see the anger-rousing agent as a 5 year old child. If you think of the other person as a helpless 5 year old child your compassion and forgiveness will come to the fore. If your baby brother accidentally stabbed you, you would not feel anger and desire to retaliate. Instead you would just feel he is just too young to know any better. This exercise may be particularly useful for close members of the family who at times evoke your anger.

5. Value Peace more than anger.
If we value peace of mind as our most important treasure we will not allow anger to remain in our system.

“You may have every right to be angry with someone, but you know that by getting angry with him you will only lose your precious peace of mind..” - Sri Chinmoy

6. Always try to understand those who are cross.
Don’t worry about feeling the need to defend yourself from their criticisms. If you can remain detached and calm they may begin to feel guilty about venting their anger on you. Inspired by your example of calmness they will seek subconsciously to do the same.

7. Focus on Something Completely Different.
Suppose someone has done something to make you angry. Think about something which will make you happy. The best antidote to negativity is to focus on the positive.

8. Breathe Deeply.
The simple act of breathing deeply will help considerably with removing anger.

9. Meditation.
Practise meditation regularly to bring your inner peace to the fore. If we can have an inner access to our inner peace we will be able to draw upon this during testing times. - How to Meditate

10. Smile
When we smile we defuse many negative situations. To smile is offer goodwill to others. Smiling costs nothing but can effectively defuse tense situations.
Roger

Mr. Boggs - Sensei
Goshin Karate & Judo Academy
6245 E. Bell Road #120
Scottsdale, AZ. 85254
480-951-2236

http://www.GoshinKarate.com/
http://www.GoshinCares.com/
http://www.GoshinGirls.com/
http://www.GoshinGear.com

Thursday, October 9, 2008

Karate Kids - Tackling Problems


10 Ways to Help Your Child Tackle Any Problem


Learning how to approach a problem or a big project is a life skill that I think many adults do not ever learn how to do (I am still learning).

Recently, I have been working with a lot of teens on how to approach and get through their big school projects. I realized there was a system to approaching all of their issues, whether it was a science fair project, a history report, and, in one case, planning the school prom.

Here are 10 ideas you can use, and what you can teach your child as they start to deal with bigger issues in their lives.

1) Find a Starting Point: Half of the battle is finding a starting point, so before they worry about the whole project, have them focus on the first step. Ask them what they are most worried about and if they can get that done first, then explain to them that as long as they get started on something it will be very easy to get the ball rolling. If they are doing some sort of writing assignment, try a ‘mental vomit’ where you ask your child to just start writing everything they can think of about their topic on the page—this seemingly informal and fun exercise actually really helps get the juices flowing.

2) Break It Into Pieces: Teens and kids especially get overwhelmed–usually to tears, when there is a looming project that feels like mountains of work. I always make the first step to actually break the project into pieces of steps. Make sure they understand that they should only think about one step at a time, if they concentrate fully on what they are doing and not worry about getting all done, they will do much better work.

3) Write Out a Plan: Writing out each of the parts of the project, as well as how much you plan on doing each day, is very calming and a good way to organize your thoughts. This will also help them not worry about each step so much, you can say to them: “We have it all planned out already, so do not worry about not having enough time, just focus on what you are doing right now.”

4) Learn Your Limits: When I teach time management, one of the biggest issues I face is teaching kids how to know their limits. Maybe they want to study and memorize all of chapter one on Saturday…but can they? I ask them to think about waking up on Saturday with that huge slate of work, will they really be able to do it, or is it too intimidating? Sometimes it goes the other way–too little work for a certain day so the last day before the test/project/event they have to pull an all-nighter.

5) Schedule in Breaks: How can anyone get anything done without taking a few breathers. I always make a schedule and plan in a lunch out, time to workout etc. Tell them that scheduling in and taking breaks is just as important as getting the project done…if you take breaks you will get it done better! Make sure to take breaks with them so they really feel like they are getting out of the school work. Help them take fun breaks by taking them out for ice cream, playing outside or even taking the dog for a walk.

6) Teach How to Take Breaks: Ok, maybe this is just me. But, when I was approaching finals, or when I have a lot of work to do on my blog. I plan in breaks like “wash dishes, vacuum apartment, call mom” etc. These breaks are not real breaks. Make sure you have them take breaks that are really fun and give their mind a rest. When I say ‘give their mind a rest’ I really mean have them do something that is totally different from what they are working on, if they are doing an art project let them play video games, if they are writing a paper, let them help you make dinner.

7) Getting Over A Block: If you get writers block or cannot get inspired, teach your kids to take a walk outside, leave the house, play a game or do something totally different to get inspired. Sometimes taking a step back is the best way to see the whole picture and get inspired. Another way to get over a block is to talk it out. Let them talk to you or a sibling to figure out why they are stumped, you would be surprised how inspiring younger siblings can be in their simplistic approaches!

8) Sleep Is the Best: To do good work and to concentrate, you must schedule in sleep time when dealing with a big issue. It can also be a great time to get over writers block or a fear of failure. On days when they have a lot of work or finals coming up, make the whole house go to sleep early so your working child does not feel left out. If you can move any dinners earlier maybe this is a good option for getting them to sleep earlier. Never, ever sacrifice sleep for work, your child is better off learning to make things shorter and take care of their health than pulling an all-nighter.

9) Context and Priority: It is always important to take a step back and realize before you stress, how important this project is in the scheme of your life. I also try to emphasize the idea of priorities. Especially when I am focusing on the details (like font or color). Is the font what is important here, or is getting it done on-time more crucial at this point? Kids especially focus a lot on little details of an art project or will spend two hours on the cover of a book report when that is not even graded—be sure to talk to them about this habit.

10) Take a Deep Breath: I often am called in when it is already too late to plan or take breaks. In that case, it is important to take a deep breath and approach the problem calmly and with a level head. Oxygen to the brain and a few deep breathing exercises can calm anyone down to do their best work.

You can do anything and being there for your kids and showing them that you love them and will help them through whatever they are dealing with will help you bond and improve your relationship for later.

Dream big, work hard and you will get there,


Vanessa Van Petten is the teen author of the book “You’re Grounded!”—a parenting book from a young perspective. Please check out the rest of Vanessa’s articles for parents!
Roger Boggs
Goshin Karate & Judo Academy
6245 E. Bell Road #120
Scottsdale, AZ. 85254
480-951-2236

http://www.GoshinKarate.com/
http://www.GoshinCares.com/
http://www.GoshinGirls.com/
http://www.goshingear.com/
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Tuesday, October 7, 2008

Scottsdale Karate School supports "Bully Awareness Prevention Week"


How to Help if Your Child Is Being Bullied

Being a good listener is one of the best ways to comfort your child. Just talking about the problem and knowing you care can be helpful. Your child is likely to feel vulnerable while discussing bullying and how it makes him or her feel, so it's important to show your love and support.

If you find out that your child is being bullied, don't add to the burden by becoming angry. Although it's understandable to be upset, be careful not to let your child see that. Your sadness could be misinterpreted as disappointment. Be sure to validate your child's feelings — don't minimize them.

You should also reassure your child that he or she isn't to blame. Explain that bullies are often confused or unhappy people who don't feel good about themselves.

Also consider asking your child thoughtful questions, such as:

* What's it like walking to the bus stop or home from school?

* What's it like on the bus ride to and from school?

* What happens on the playground during recess or before or after school?

* What happens in the hallways at school or during lunchtime?

* Have any bullies in the neighborhood or at school threatened anyone you know?

* Do some kids you know get emails, instant messages, or text messages that are upsetting, threatening, or insulting?

This approach might make it easier for your child to talk about bullies because it isn't as personal and emphasizes that other kids experience bullying, too.

Artwork and drawings or puppets may prompt younger victims to talk about bullies. Older children, however, may be helped by direct questions, like asking them to talk about their "friends" and "enemies."

But telling your child what to actually do about bullying can be another story. The KidsSafetyCouncil.com Health Safety Poll showed that 46% of the children surveyed who said they've been bullied respond by fighting back, a solution that can just make things worse. Boys in the poll were more likely to say they would fight back than girls (53% of boys vs. 38% of girls), whereas girls were more likely to say they would talk to an adult than boys (32% of girls vs. 19% of boys).
I know a great school that teaches you how to defend yourself. -- http://www.GoshinKarate.com/

The key to helping your child deal with bullying is to help him or her regain a sense of dignity and recover damaged self-esteem. To help ward off bullies, give your child these tips:
Hold the anger. It's natural to want to get really upset with a bully, but that's exactly the response the bully is aiming for. Not only will getting angry or violent not solve the problem, it will only make it worse. Bullies want to know they have control over your child's emotions. Each time they get a reaction from your child, it adds fuel to the bully's fire — getting angry just makes the bully feel more powerful.

Never get physical or bully back. Emphasize that your child should never use physical force (like kicking, hitting, or pushing) to deal with a bully. Not only does that show anger, but your child can never be sure what the bully will do in response. Tell your child that it's best to hang out with others, stay safe, and get help from an adult.

Act brave, walk away, and ignore the bully. Tell your child to look the bully in the eye and say something like, "I want you to stop right now." Counsel your child to then walk away and ignore any further taunts. Encourage your child to "walk tall" and hold his or her head up high (using this type of body language sends a message that your child isn't vulnerable). Bullies thrive on the reaction they get, and by walking away, or ignoring hurtful emails or instant messages, your child will be telling the bully that he or she just doesn't care. Sooner or later, the bully will probably get bored with trying to bother your child.

Use humor. In a situations where your child has to deal with a bully and can't walk away with poise, tell him or her to use humor or offer a compliment to throw the bully off guard. However, tell your child not to use humor to make fun of the bully.

Tell an adult. If your child is being bullied, emphasize that it's very important to tell an adult. Teachers, principals, parents, and lunchroom personnel at school can all help to stop it. Studies show that schools where principals crack down on this type of behavior have less bullying.
Talk about it. It may help your child to talk to a guidance counselor, teacher, or friend — anyone who can give the support your child needs. Talking can be a good outlet for the fears and frustrations that can build when your child is being bullied.

Use the buddy system. Enlisting the help of friends or a group may help both your child and others stand up to bullies. The bully wants to be recognized and feel powerful, after all, so a lot of bullying takes part in the presence of peers. If the bully is picking on another child, tell your child to point out to the bully that his or her behavior is unacceptable and is no way to treat another person. This can work especially well in group situations (i.e., when a member of your child's circle of friends starts to pick on or shun another member). Tell your child to make a plan to buddy up with a friend or two on the way to school, on the bus, in the hallways, or at recess or lunch — wherever your child might meet the bully. Tell your child to offer to do the same for a friend who's having trouble with a bully. When one person speaks out against a bully, it gives others license to add their support and take a stand, too.

Develop more friendships by joining social organizations, clubs, sports or karate or martial Arts. Encourage regular play or social visits with other children at your home. Being in a group with other kids may help to build your child's self-esteem and give your child a larger group of positive peers to spend time with and turn to.

Of course, you may have to intervene in persistent cases of bullying. That can involve going to school with your child and talking to your child's teacher, school counselor, or principal. In certain extreme cases it may be necessary to contact legal authorities. Safety should be everyone's concern. If you've tried the previous methods and still feel the need to speak to the bullying child's parents, it's best to do so within the context of the school, where a school official, such as a counselor, can mediate.

Roger

Mr. Boggs - Sensei
Goshin Karate & Judo Academy
6245 E. Bell Road #120
Scottsdale, AZ. 85254
480-951-2236

http://www.GoshinKarate.com/
http://www.GoshinCares.com/
http://www.GoshinGirls.com/
http://www.goshingear.com/


Arizona: Taekwondo Karate kids Ju-jitsu / Jiu-jitsu Grappling Kickboxing Hapkido Judo Kung Fu Bruce Lee's Jeet Kune Do Escrima Kali Arnis Wushu Aikido Judo Kempo / Kenpo Yoga TaiChi Self Defense Training Practical Street Defense Women's Self Defense Stranger Danger Bully Busting Workplace violence School violence Personal Training Executive Self Defense Bodyguard Boxing Weapons Extreme Martial Arts (XMA) Black Belt Training Advanced

Sunday, October 5, 2008

Karate Kids Are Not Bullies!



Bullying Prevention Awareness Week, Oct. 5 - 11

Help with Bullying

As part of the FULL STOP Campaign, the www.KidsSafetyCouncil.com want to help schools stamp out bullying.

We believe: Every school should have a strong anti-bullying policy.

Everyone who is affected by bullying should have someone they can turn to for help

Everyone - children, teachers, adults - can help put a stop to bullying. Bullying happens for lots of reasons. It could be the way a person looks, their size, how they talk, or maybe because they're not very clever at school, or sometimes because they're top of the class!! There is something about all of us that others might pick on.

But we believe bullying is WRONG, whatever the reason. These are alot of ways to bully someone.

Teasing or name calling.

Threatening them, or making them do things they don't want to do.

Taking or damaging their things.

Hitting or kicking them.

Playing unkind practical jokes on them.

Making them feel uncomfortable or scared.

Ignoring them or deliberately leaving them out of things.

Saying or writing nasty things about them.

Here's some advice if you are being bullied.

Write down what's happening and the dates, place and times when it happens. Think up some replies to comments that the bullies are making. Try and stay with your friends or with an adult during breaktimes at school. Do you know why you are being bullied? Don't keep it to yourself - it's OK to share your worries. Speak to friends, parents or a teacher. If they don't understand how bad you feel, don't give up. Keep on trying, or think of someone else you can talk to. It's important to find someone to talk to - they can help you think about what to do next.

Here's some advice if you are bullying other children. Do you know why and how you are bullying others? Think about the pain bullying can cause - do you really want to hurt or upset people? It is not big to make others feel small. Bullying will not win you any real friends. Ask for help to stop you bullying others - try talking to an adult or friend you trust.

Are you an onlooker?
An onlooker is someone who stands by while someone else is being bullied. Or they may join with name calling, even though they are not the ringleader. Do you know what kind of behaviour is bullying? Try looking at the list above. Listen to friends who are being bullied or who are bullying other children. Try talking to them about what their feelings are and how they are behaving. Don't join in with people who bully - it isn't big to make others feel small. Try not to ignore things you know are wrong because you are worried that you could be bullied too. Tell an adult about what is happening. Encourage friends to ask for help if they are being bullied, or are bullying others.

REMEMBER: it you are being bullied, or bullying others, or being an onlooker, it is very important to talk to someone you trust about what's going on.If you'd like to talk to someon- outside school in confidence, you can phone the KIDSSAFETYCOUNCIL.COM:
or e-mail me @ GoshinKarate@cox.net


Roger

Mr. Boggs - Sensei
Goshin Karate & Judo Academy
6245 E. Bell Road #120
Scottsdale, AZ. 85254
480-951-2236

http://www.GoshinKarate.com/
http://www.GoshinCares.com/
http://www.GoshinGirls.com/
http://www.goshingear.com/


Friday, October 3, 2008

Five Traits of Karate/Martial Arts Leadership

Karate Leadership


We all lead at some point in our life. We serve as leaders in our jobs, in our communities, and in our families.

For many, being a leader means having the power to control others. Those who take this view eventually find that the more they try to control people, the less influence they have over them.
For others, leadership means being in a position of authority. Yet, a man can be a leader even if he’s on the bottom of the totem pole. When a man sees that something must be done, he won’t let his lack of position limit him from taking charge; he steps into the gap and assumes responsibility. True leadership is not about superiority, position, or prestige. It’s about revealing and releasing the potential of those around you. Leadership is not about the power of one, but facilitating the greatness of many.

Unfortunately, many men today are sloughing off leadership responsibilities either because of laziness or apathy. They would rather live a life of ignoble ease and have others shoulder the responsibility for them. But the world needs the leadership of virtuous men more than ever. When you’re called to serve as a leader, will you be ready to take on the challenge?
In 1950, the United States Military printed a small book for all armed forces officers on how to become better leaders and men. In it, five traits are set forth on what makes an effective leader. I’ve taken these traits and explored their meaning and application for every man whether an officer or a civilian.

1. Quiet resolution. An effective leader has the resolve to see every task through to the end. Resolve is easy to have in the quiet before the storm comes. Resolve is a breeze when one’s commitment has never been tested. It is when the fear, chaos, and stress of a crisis hits that true resolve is revealed. In any situation, there will be an opportunity for retreat, an escape hatch, the chance to shirk responsibility and choose safety and defeat over risk and greater reward. At that moment, the man with quiet resolve does not waffle, he does not doubt the choice that he knows is right. Without the terrible grip of indecision seizing him, he is cool and levelheaded, unflappable in the face of challenge. He is not loud, yelling and frenetically scurrying about in an attempt to cover his lack of grit with useless action. The man with quiet resolution is a man others can feel supremely confident in. While the world around him goes to pot, he knows what his mission is and he calmly fulfills it. He is the anchor in the storm.

How to become a leader with quiet resolution:
Do not wait for a crisis to emerge to make a decision. Inventory your values and goals, and set a plan for how you will react when certain crises arise and important decisions need to be made. DO NOT wait to make your choice until the heat of the moment, when you will be most tempted to surrender your values. Set a course for yourself, and when trials come, and you are sorely tested, you will not panic, you will not waver, you will simply remember your plan and follow it through.

2. The hardihood to take risks. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. Great achievements come to those who are willing to take risks. A leader who continually plays it safe will never put themselves or the people they lead in a position to experience success. A life without risks is surely alluring; its sweet lullaby of safety and comfort has lulled many a man into the trap of mediocrity and apathy. The weak man stands at the crossroads of decision, tempted by the possible reward and yet paralyzed by the fear of defeat. He is blinded to the fact that even failure brings its own rewards. Without failure a man never comes to know himself, his limits, his potential, and what he is truly capable of. A man who never dares greatly fails to see that he has taken the greatest risk of all: the risk that he will never progress, never refine his soul, never amount to anything worthwhile.

How to become a leader that takes risks:
The fear of taking risks can be very real. You cannot expect to have the courage to take a large risk when you have had no experience taking small ones. So find opportunities in your daily life to take little risks. It could be as small as approaching a stranger and striking up a conversation. Find an activity that frightens you, like public speaking and go for it. As you venture more risks, you develop the capacity to overcome your fear and gain the wisdom to know when a risk is worth taking. You will achieve the mettle to take the big risk when your leadership abilities are truly called upon.

3. The readiness to share in rewards with subordinates. A great leader, although supremely confident, humbly acknowledges that no success, no matter how large of a role he personally played in bringing it to fruition, is a wholly solo effort. He is deeply grateful for all those, even those with small roles, who played a part in the achievement. And he understands human nature. He understands that people love to be recognized for their contributions. When a group or organization succeeds, a true leader makes it a priority to recognize both in public and private the contributions of those he led. When a person sees that a leader is humble and will share in success, they’ll be more willing to follow that person.

How to become a leader that shares rewards with subordinates:
Sharing success with the people who follow you can be as easy as offering public recognition or increasing their compensation. A simple thank you card expressing your gratitude for an employee’s effort in completing a project can go a long ways in building loyalty to you and your organization. When offering thanks or giving praise, try to be as specific as possible. It shows the person you lead that you are keenly aware of what they do and makes the thanks or praise more personal and sincere.

4. An equal readiness to take the blame when things go adversely. It is when things go wrong that true leaders are separated from the pretenders. The weasel leader will gladly accept the accolades when he and his team succeeds, but will find another individual to take the fall when things get tough. When followers see this, it completely demolishes any confidence and allegiance to that leader. True leaders will take responsibility for all consequences of their decisions, even the bad ones. Even when the results were the fault of a subordinate, a true leader will still take all the blame. Perhaps the leader failed to communicate clearly what the subordinate’s duty was, or maybe the leader failed to match the right man with the right job. After taking responsibility for the results, an effective leader will immediately take action to correct the situation.

How to be a leader by taking the blame when things go adversely:
When taking the blame, you must do so sincerely. Your confession must spring from a genuine belief that you were at fault. To accept blame, but to do so grudgingly, makes you a boy, not a man. Never play the part of the martyr and seek glory for taking the fall. Likewise, don’t take the blame publically, but then tell your subordinates that the only reason you took responsibility was to save their asses. You’ll look like a phony and deteriorate their trust in you.

5. The nerve to survive storm and disappointment and to face each new day with the score sheet wiped clean; neither dwelling on one’s successes, nor accepting discouragement from one’s failures. All of history’s great leaders had moments of supreme success and moments of devastating defeat. Great leaders focus on the things they can change and influence, and the past is not one of those things. If you fail, learn from it and then immediately cease to dwell on it. Rehashing the past will not do anything for you. Moreover, the people a man leads will lose confidence in their leader if they continually brood over their failures. When you succeed, celebrate with your followers, and move on. A leader who continually dwells on past success shows that he has not set his eye on greater things. Additionally, as we learn from the Greeks, a leader’s hubris can quickly become their downfall. Always stay humble and hungry.

How to become a leader by not living in the past: Read biographies of great leaders from history. By reading about the lives of these great men, you’ll learn that even the best leaders faced enormous setbacks. You’ll gain perspective and come to see that one failure does not mean the death of a man’s capacity to lead. And the amazing feats of the great men of history will inspire you to believe in the powerful influence on history a true leader can wield.
Roger

Mr. Boggs - Sensei
Goshin Karate & Judo Academy
6245 E. Bell Road #120
Scottsdale, AZ. 85254
480-951-2236

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