A common but true discourse is that in certain aspects, society is undergoing a process of degradation. At the same time that we have social advances and that important discussions arise, there is a strong culture of individualism and hatred, where only what is convenient for you matters, regardless of the means, and the other (especially the different) ends up being treated as less than human. We see this on several fronts, from ideological discussions, to politics, to disputes in the workplace or even to fights over a simple seat on the subway. Something fundamental is missing.
In parallel, we have more and more technology, but totally misused. With smartphones, we have previously unimaginable knowledge in the palm of our hand, but most people use it only for trivia. Children become addicted to games and are unable to focus on anything else, always looking for ways of instant reward and even ignoring anyone who tries to talk to them. Adults use instant messaging apps for frivolous conversations and to share texts and “news” from dubious sources. They post empty catchphrases and many selfies on social media to try to massage the ego, but with little practical effect for anything.
There is a waste of human potential and energy. So, how do you resume your focus and cultivate a culture that is more aware of your habits and behavior with the world around you? The answer is complex, but certainly a practice that can collaborate – a lot – to improve this scenario is Karate-Do.
It seems ironic, but this art of self-defense created by the people of Okinawa, hundreds of years ago, remains relevant in the 21st century. Perhaps not for the same reasons it was originally conceived, but Karate is still very relevant and can make a big difference in people’s lives. That’s because Karate is a tool for social change.
The “do” in Karate-Do means path or way, in the philosophical sense of the terms. When practicing and learning the teachings of Karate, an individual must follow a path of self-discovery and personal growth that will help him not only to master the art, but to assume certain postures that may positively influence the relationship with his family, studies and at work.
An important point is that Karate-Do is an art that cultivates respect. From the moment you enter the dojo, reverence must be paid to the master and the other companions. This habit must not be to create submission, but to recognize those who started walking the path before you, as well as recognizing colleagues who walk this path beside you, even willing to help you.
Mutual help, caring for teammates, thanking for the training and showing respect, despite the differences, are common practices in a serious Karate school. You may not get along so well with a colleague or disagree with some attitude he may have, but at the time of training the only thing that matters is maintaining a posture of seriousness and working together. Look in the eyes and greet with good will. Even within a tournament fight, the competitive spirit cannot cancel respect.
In the dojo, in addition to Karate techniques, empathy and a sense of community must be developed. Guiding newcomers, helping to spread the word about the dojo and keeping the dojo organized are everyone’s responsibilities. And this collaborative mindset needs to be carried over to life outside. Karate values are values for life. Therefore, when learning to be respectful during class, the Karate practitioner must be respectful to family members, in traffic, in the bank line, in the crowded subway… No matter where he is.
The battle against the ego itself is another major challenge imposed by practice. Anyone who thinks they are at the top or have already learned 100% some technique or concept is actually making mistakes and stagnating. Personal behavior must always be polished, trying not to be arrogant, impulsive or negligent. The spirit of karateka must be humble and open to reviewing what you already know, discovering new ways and constantly learning, because only then will it always be your best version. The path of learning and self-discovery lasts a lifetime.
Another point is that Karate training requires focus and determination. It is impossible to evolve in art or as a person doing things carelessly. During classes, karateka will encounter the most varied difficulties and obstacles to learn techniques or improve movements, but he must be aware that the way to overcome these challenges is to train a lot, observe the example of veterans and not give up. Karate helps to develop attention and discipline.
It is also important to remember that Karate is a very complete physical activity, where the practitioner must move from head to toe and become stronger. In times when physical inactivity and obesity are on the rise, nothing better than an activity that maintains our good health. Naturally, people tend to look for some trendy exercise when it comes to keeping fit, but surely few options will be as complete and full of psychological and moral benefits as Karate.
It is not about living all aspects of your daily life with military rigidity or being serious all the time, but about understanding that disposition and consistency are essential for personal evolution and to be a valued member in society. The practitioner must incorporate Karate in his life and try to extract from it the learnings that will help him to walk his path, in a constant search for balance and to be better every day.
A good Karate teacher will not tell students how to live their lives, but through the practice of art, he will try to instill and cultivate in all students and also in himself universal values such as sincerity, respect, empathy, discipline and the search balance and improvement. And it is these values that our society so urgently needs to be reinforced, in order to live better in community. The world needs more true karateka. That is why Karate-Do is an art more necessary art than ever.