Developing Body Wisdom Through Martial Arts: A Multi-Range Exploration

This course is designed to be beneficial to martial arts students of all levels, including people with no experience. Novices will gain a basic understanding of martial arts styles and training. Advanced practitioners will explore key principles that inform the execution of techniques across the ranges of combat (grappling, striking, and weapons).

Accommodating a range of levels and foci will be facilitated by the presence of the three accomplished instructors. (bios below).

Optional meditation session and meditation instruction will be available.

Our weekend seminar will emphasize the “body wisdom” themes of alignment, breathing & relaxation, and rhythm & flow in each of these three ranges.

1. Alignment
2. optimizing speed & strength/power through internal body alignment
3. alignment relative to opponent
4. disrupting the alignment of the opponent
5. weapons as an extension of the body
6. Breathing
7. proper breathing technique
8. timing movement with breath
9. Relaxation/Calm
10. conserving energy
11. optimizing speed & strength/power through relaxation
12. maintaining composure during storm, letting opponent tire
13. Rhythm and Flow
14. repetition to develop form, rhythm, timing, and flow
15. rhythm and breaking rhythm
16. Developing the Mind/Body Connection through these Practices

For grappling range, techniques will be taught from Brazilian jiu jitsu, which emphasizes getting an opponent to the ground and using good techniques to neutralize possible strength or size advantages.  For striking range, techniques from boxing and Muay Thai will be examined, where footwork, head movement, and angling will be used to gain tactical advantage and proper alignment and breathing will be applied to optimize striking.  For weapons training, techniques from eskrima and kubudo will be highlighted to develop a sense for weapons as an extension of the body, and how to optimize grace, speed, and fluidity.