Western Ontario Athletics

When I was in my first year at Western, I decided to take up karate because martial arts had always been an interest at heart and I had always been eager to learn. (Maybe it was because of all those Bruce Lee films). Once I discovered Western Karate Club, I knew instantly this was what I was looking for. Shorin Ryu has changed my life because it is a new path for me and I have fun while learning the ways of karate.
 
Shorin Ryu, like any other form of martial arts, requires diligence and focus to prepare us for real-life challenges. Putting oneself in a realistic situation prepares one to act accordingly if the circumstances were to occur.  As a white belt, I had to learn to channel something more dangerous where I have to defend myself. I have found that karate has changed my perspective because I understand the fighting spirit, or damashi, that is required. I practice grounded movements that prepare for controlled aggression rather than light, lifted posture to demonstrate an artistic form (because I practiced ballet before coming to Western).
 
For example, in Shorin Ryu, the basic elements of a proper stance are stability, mobility, and direction. I need a balanced stance in order to remain firmly in place, but also be able to pick up quickly. This is particular important for self-defence because I have to be aware of my surrounds and react to others. Because of my efforts, I progressed and moved on to receive the first que belt, yellow.