I came across this neat little article on martial arts philosophy today on the Tae Kwon Do Network (http://www.taekwondo-network.com). Thought I would post it in celebration of passing my belt test last night.
Tae kwon do philosophy can be described as an idealistic and physical means of becoming one with the universe through the study of martial art.
Living fully and in harmony with ones surroundings through the perfection of the art is living on the path or do.
In its grandest sense, practice of Tae kwon do is to seek transcendence and thereby happiness.
Many seek happiness by practicing a healthy life style. Having good eating habits, using meditation techniques and more. All come together to shape a fuller, more meaningful and happier life.
Men, women and children alike, are greatly intrigued by the martial arts. Whether seen in the movies, television or storefront window of a school, there is something unique about the art that draws you in.
Those few individuals who decide to study martial arts specifically to learn how to fight, ignoring the other aspects of its nature, are missing the true meaning of tae kwon do.Tae kwon do philosophy tells us that training in the way (do) is truly a way of life.
You may ask, “How does learning to kick, punch and yell while I break a piece of wood become a way of life?”
To see only kicking, punching and yelling is to not look at the underlying purpose of the martial arts.
The study of tae kwon do requires intense physical and mental training. Through this training we begin to unify all the aspects of life, physical-mental-emotional-spiritual, that make us human.
The individual who is new to the martial arts or tae kwon do in particular is thinking,
“I just wanted to learn some self-defense moves. I didn’t know taekwondo was so involved.”
Or maybe they were just looking to get into shape, to be strong and healthy.
I would tell them, these are admirable, wonderful goals that should definitely be pursued.
In tae kwon do training, we strive for inner peace.
One means to the peace that I have been taught is called pyung sang shim which translates as an always peaceful mind.
The philosophy behind pyung sang shim however, far exceeds its simple translation.
If you are living with an always peaceful mind you have achieved a higher level of being. It can take years to reach this balance.
You can see how much there is to appreciate around you.
We must actively show appreciation for the things we already have. Most people are surrounded by blessings they may not even see.
The greater our status becomes, the more thankful and humble we should be to truly appreciate what we have.
Pyung sang shim allows you to be ready to help others who could benefit from your experience. The more we have to give to others, the more we will receive in return.
You take care of your body and treat it well.
To be able to give to others, you have to first love yourself and that includes taking care of your body by eating well, resting, exercising and relieving stress.
When you can live with an always peaceful mind, you will find great happiness.
