Saxon Karate Federation eV
08.10.2019 | THE STAGES OF MINDFULNESS
This was the theme of a special seminar, as this Saturday, October 5th, the 1st Shotokan Danshakai of the SKB took place in Reichenbach in the gymnasium of the Weinholdschule.
The organizing club Karatewelt Reichenbach eV, together with the speaker Fiore Tartaglia (6th Dan) and the Shotokan style speaker of the SKB, Dirk Eisenschmidt (4th Dan), welcomed over thirty eager Dan holders and some dedicated brown belts almost punctually at eleven o'clock.
Fiore Tartaglia's thematic focus was on kime and its proper use. Whether it was the correct timing of hip rotation or breaking down a fluid defensive technique into its smallest components, he constantly encouraged his participants to think and reflect. He also emphasized that the techniques should be executed not only precisely but meticulously. Thus, a seemingly complete movement was taken apart and broken down into its individual components, examined, analyzed, practiced, and reassembled so that it was more effective, yet still appeared fluid.
After a short break for refreshment, the session continued with a one-hour Mondo, in which Fiore highlighted a karateka's responsibility to those around them. "It is our task to pass on the knowledge we accumulate. We must not take our knowledge with us to the grave." Fiore also emphasized that this responsibility increases with each new Kyu grade, and even more so with each newly acquired Dan grade. He also explained how we can become more mindful, what the differences are, and how we can better perceive the here and now. He repeatedly explained this using short stories that led the participants to a lively discussion. Fiore understands how to relate Zanshin, the higher level of consciousness, not only to training, but also to everyday reflection. This stimulated a group discussion that even went beyond the Mondo at times.
In the second session, Fiore applied what she had just learned to the kata Enpi. Unfortunately, due to time constraints, only a closer look at the opening sequence was possible.
Shortly before the end, Fiore changed the subject again and demonstrated a partner exercise in which he "swept without sweeping," bringing down an opponent solely by changing positions and using his hips. The participants had practiced this intensively during the last half hour.
After the farewells and the obligatory gift, Dirk Eisenschmidt announced that the 2nd Shotokan Danshakai with Fiore will take place next year. A hosting dojo is still being determined.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to Fiore, who was willing to share his knowledge with us, and to Dirk Eisenschmidt, who placed his trust in KWR to host this course. A big thank you also goes out to all the hard-working helpers behind the scenes.
Text: Carsten Kuhn & Lukas Polland, Photos: Martin Sonntag
