HIS Karate-Do

One of the characteristics of a good karateka is a “low hara”. Conversely, you’ll sometimes hear a sempai or sensei comment on how a lower ranking student has a “floating, high hara”. I know you folks realize that hara refers to the lower stomach area of one’s body. For the martial artist, we’re talking about the so-called “one-point”, generally denoted as about two inches below the navel. From a physical perspective, it’s also the center point of the human body. You also know that the lower your center of gravity, or hara, the better balance one has, the stronger one’s techniques become. It’s no secret that when pushing a car or pulling the rope in tug-of-war, we automatically lower our hara and grip or thrust the ground with our feet. Seems simple enough, but exactly what’s involved in lowering one’s hara? Well, to start off, your legs and calves have to be stronger, the lower you drop your weight. That’s why so many beginners (especially kids) do a little bit of cheating in their stance, especially in the static position… in the zenkutsu-dachi, it’s probably twice as much work for the forward legs quad muscles, just to hold the stance [...]

Some of you may know that my dad, while enjoying a good quality of life, made the tough decision several months ago, to move into a small private care home. We all feel a lot better, now that he always has people nearby who can help him, should anything happen, day or night. They’re definitely an extended family for him. As a part of this life-change, we had to clear out the mementos and belongings acquired over the 46 years that dad had lived in his home. My dad belongs to that generation of Nisei fathers who never had much to say. In fact, I don’t think dad ever said a single word of affection or encouragement to me…. but I knew that he was always there to support me if I ever needed help. So I was very surprised one day, shortly before he was to leave his house for a new phase of life, when he said, “Wes, go to the chest of drawers in my bedroom and get me my jade ring.” I knew which one it was, and that he only wore it on special occasions. Back in the 1960’s, one of my mom’s friends was [...]

—In two weeks, 17 Feb, we’ll have a quick exam for some of our white belts. I say quick, because the first test seems so short for those of us watching…it’s over before I can blink my eyes. Of course, for those taking their first test, it seems to last forever. this particular group of white belts should have no problems passing…some have been training since last summer, so they should be so ready, they should be overripe (joke). Following the short exam, we’ll have training as usual. —In three weeks, 24 Feb (weather permitting), we’ll have our periodic yard cleaning. As always, many hands should make this quick so that we have time for some training afterwards. Please bring your rakes and gloves (and weedwhacker, if you have one). —As I mentioned today, on the 14 Mar episode of the hugely popular TV series “Lost”, Anne, mother to two of our young blue belts is scheduled to appear as a nurse (speaking a couple of lines, no less!). So keep your eyes peeled for her, and you can tell your family, “Hey, I know her!” —Also in March, I’m happy to say that sempai Wes (not me, the younger, [...]