Ki: The Fuel That Amplifies Technique

by Master Doug Cook

Taekwondo Times "Traditions" Column March, 2015

      The practice of traditional taekwondo requires the student to become proficient in a multitude of blocks, kicks, strikes and sweeps. However, in order to amplify these techniques far beyond the limitations of the physical body, one must introduce an element not easily definable in common terms. This element is referred to as Ki in Korean and Chi or Qi in Chinese. Grandmaster Richard Chun, a true pioneer and practitioner of traditional taekwondo states that, “Ki is the cosmic ocean in which everything exists.”    Ki development is an essential component of martial arts training that is often overlooked in all likelihood due to the metaphysical issues it raises. Nevertheless, teaching traditional taekwondo

Master Cook teaching Ki development exercises

without offering the practitioner exercises in Ki development is tantamount to sitting someone behind the steering wheel of a car, but telling them nothing of the fuel that powers its engine. Ki is the elixir that amplifies technique and triggers great strength; it is the force that shields the body from harm while maintaining health and a sense of well being when in balance.

     For centuries, since the publication of the Nei Jing Su Wen, or the Classic on Internal Medicine, by the Yellow Emperor, Huang Di (2697-2597 B.C.), Asian culture and traditional Chinese medicine in particular has recognized the existence of a force within the human body essential to the maintenance of life.

Today, the relevance of Ki is appreciated by millions of people who practice the discipline of taijiquan, benefit from the flowing postures unique to qigong, and find relief from pain through the treatment of acupuncture. Each of these therapeutic arts in their own way relies on some form of Ki manipulation. Besides the martial arts, use of Ki is common to other disciplines unique to Asian culture: calligraphy, the tea ceremony, and the arrangement of flowers, call on some form of ki management in order to advance their practice. Still, the structure of this vital life force remains a mystery in no small part due to its evanescent nature. Studies have been conducted in an attempt to confirm the reality of Ki but at present, even though energy fields surrounding the body have been measured, no concrete clinical evidence is available to support its existence.

     Physically, Ki can be thought of as a bioelectric current. Subsequently, the martial artist can use this energy to short circuit another’s malevolent energy causing it to betray him in the process. One basis for this assumption is that everything in nature is composed of matter vibrating at different energy levels; molecules are composed of atoms bound together by electrons orbiting a minute nucleus, all with negative and positive charges. If the practitioner can cause his adversary’s kinetic energy to flicker, even for a moment through the use of Ki manipulation, then he has gained the upper hand even before a blow has been dealt. Again, while this effect, defined as combat Ki, is unsubstantiated by science, it stands as the cornerstone of many classical martial disciplines such as hapkido and aikido that rely on yielding to an opponent’s negative intentions.      

To understand Ki and its movement through the body, it is helpful to visualize systems in nature that we are familiar with. In doing so, both the human circulatory system and an ordinary electrical circuit come to mind. Both require a physical pathway for transportation. Arteries, veins and capillaries carry blood. Copper wire transports electricity. What, then, conveys Ki? Ki is thought to travel through a series of channels or meridians that span the body. The two grand meridians, located on the front and back of the torso, feed a complimentary series of channels. These pathways known as the twelve regular meridians are associated with specific organs of the body as follows: lung, large intestine, stomach, spleen, heart, small intestine, bladder, kidney, pericardium, triple warmer, gall bladder, and liver. An additional eight, grouped in pairs, are known as the extraordinary meridians and perform a separate function.

     Nevertheless, all of these meridians are invisible to the eye resulting in great skepticism concerning their existence. However, it is these very meridians and their related pressure points that the acupuncturist stimulates for therapeutic purposes and the martial artist activates to amplify technique. By removing blockages in the meridial system, which can cause illness and in extreme cases, death, the practitioner of traditional Chinese medicine has the power to cure a variety of diseases. Conversely, the taekwondoist, by striking one or more of the many acupoints that dot the body, can incapacitate an attacker. Metaphorically speaking, these pressure points are similar to stations along a railway. Yet, rather then bearing the name of a town or village, they are designated by a number and the anatomical organ with which they are associated. The meridians mirror the tracks while Ki itself would be the engine traveling along the rails. This analogy, while simplistic at best, crudely describes the method of how Ki is distributed throughout the body.

     Located two inches below the navel, the Ki center (tanjun in Korean, or dantien in Chinese), represents the reservoir from which Ki radiates. In Chinese, dan is defined as crystal or the essence of energy, while tien is translated as the area for the essence of energy. It is here that Ki is stored after entering the body. According to Reed, the tanjun is best described as the “one-point, a tiny star, or vortex sucking in immense amounts of energy from the universe.” 

     There are many theories regarding the tanjun, the foremost being that it is the physical, cellular center of the human anatomy from which the body develops outward from conception. It is also considered ones natural center of gravity around which the extremities move. This concept becomes all the more evident when we view the contrasting outlooks between Eastern and Western culture in regards to the hub of human intent. In Western society, we often say that we “think from the heart”; heart ache, heart break, and heart-felt thanks are all conceptual indicators of this principle. Conversely, in Eastern thought, intention is said to emanate from the hara in Japanese, or, as we now know in Korean, the tanjun. This fundamental difference in belief reflects the conviction that the vital life force is distributed from the body’s center and, thus, can be stored, channeled, manipulated, and amplified to promote health and intensify technique in the case of the martial artist. Hence, it can be said that Ki not only projects, but protects. 

    Yet, before one can knowingly utilize Ki to their advantage, they must first acknowledge and trust in its existence. This requires a leap of faith for many Westerners. Ki is benevolent in nature and, therefore refuses to be abused. Through it, the martial artist can dominate, but not terrorize. If the practitioner of qigong, acupuncture, or the martial arts attempts to

Master Doug Cook

manipulate Ki for selfish or malevolent purposes other than cultural tradition, therapeutic value, or self-defense, it is sure to fail them every time. Called upon properly, however, with respect, dignity, and benign intent, it will focus intention, heal, nurture a sense of well being, and amplify traditional taekwondo technique far beyond the limitations of the physical self.  

Master Doug Cook, 6^th dan black belt, is head instructor of the Chosun Taekwondo Academy located in Warwick, New York, a senior student of Grandmaster Richard Chun, and author of four best-selling books focusing on taekwondo. He has been a TaeKwonDo Times columnist over fifteen years. Master Cook can be reached for seminars, training tours to Korea, workshops or questions at www.chosuntkd.com or info@chosuntkd.com.

     

     

The Concept of DO - A Way of Life

by Master Doug Cook

Tae Kwon Do: “Foot, Hand, Way”, or the “art of smashing with hands and feet”; three simple words representing a universe of power. Certainly, the consequences of striking with feet, tae, and hands, kwon, are clear. However, to underestimate the significance of the last syllable, do, due to its grammatical positioning within the root word tae kwon do, is to admit to a profound ignorance in this diverse, holistic discipline. To subtract this suffix entirely is to remove the heart and soul of the art, transforming it, instead, into a mere pugilistic pursuit; a hollow, physical exercise rather than an organic philosophy complete with a ritualized set of moral principles.                      

Pronounced “dough”, this simple two-letter declaration above all symbolizes the spiritual, intellectual and ethical dimensions manifest in the traditional Korean martial art of tae kwon do. Literally translated, do is The Way or Path every martial artist must travel. It is the essence and standard against which all practical and theoretical technique is measured. It is the level we must seek; the ideal we embrace. It is a continuum the sincere practitioner will visit time and time again with never any hope of reaching an end. It is a work constantly in progress. Sang Kyu Shim put this journey into perspective when he wrote: “One must not confuse the skills of living with the Way of living. The martial arts point the way while providing the skills to follow the Way. This is the road to creative change, a road of encounter and discovery. It is the road of a million miles that begins with the first step.”

Bulguksa Temple, South Korea

 While it is true that the term taekwondo itself is only a few short decades old, the fact remains that the art we are presently familiar with resonates with philosophical overtones gleaned from a mixture of traditional fighting styles rooted deep in Korean history. One cannot help but appreciate this virtue while visiting the temples and monuments built to memorialize legendary figures such as the Hwarang-do. Still, there are those today who assert that tae kwon do has no true heritage, that it is nothing more than a competitive sport; a bastard child of Japanese karate or Chinese gungfu. These are the few who would remain rooted in the stands cheering on contestants rather than recognize the virtue in champions of the heart. Forgotten are the centuries of invasion and imperialism during which the Korean people have had to defend the sovereignty of the tiny nation with the blood of their young warriors while nurturing a robust code of honor in the process. This courage is evident in every technique of the national, Korean martial art.                                           

The contemporary model of do partially stems from a desire expressed by noted masters of the past to transform their traditional martial arts skills, no longer as relevant in times of peace, into martial ways. Simply put, a martial way distinguishes itself from a battle art in that the ultimate goal is not necessarily one of combat preparedness so much as it is in discovering a method or means to achieve personal excellence through a practice of the martial arts accompanied by their implied codes of honor. By way of example, tae kwon do, tang soo do, karate do, aikido and judo are all offspring of fighting systems used primarily for the purpose of subduing an adversary in battle and expanded upon by their innovators in modern times to include a roadmap for ethical living. Men such as General Choi Hong-Hi, Hwang Kee, Gichen Funakoshi, Morihei Uyeshiba and Jigoro Kano appreciated the value of elevating their defensive skills, already steeped in ancient ethical philosophies, into still usable disciplines intended to instill defensive strategy, confidence and morality in society at large. Consequently, tens of millions of practitioners worldwide study some form of martial art in an effort to fortify their physical, mental and spiritual capabilities while becoming proficient in a form of self-defense. Practitioners of tae kwon do further support this model by striving to live a balanced life using the Five Tenets as a moral compass. These five ethical directives, as described in a previous column, consist of Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-control and Indomitable Spirit; virtues the Korean citizenry at large have had to rely on, particularly during the twentieth century, in rising from the ashes of war to their present state of economical development. Tae kwon do, being a product of this will to survive coupled with a need to reaffirm a national identity on the heels of Japanese occupation, has served as a platform for the cultivation of do.                                                        

Taking a utilitarian approach to the basic theme underscoring The Way can have a significant effect on the practical application of tae kwon do technique in general. For example, the very basis of martial arts movement, now and in the past, can be traced to the observation and mimicry of nature. Therefore, one must concede that nature is embraced by do. Many of the more advanced strikes and stances such as tiger mouth (kumsohn) and cat stance (poom sogi), derive their very names from a flirtation with the defensive tactics seen in the animal kingdom. Likewise, the method of wrist rotation found in the execution of the middle punch (momtang jirugi) while in horse stance (jachoom sogi), replicates the revolution of the planets as described in the principles of celestial mechanics; a truly grand manifestation of The Way. Furthermore, Taeguek series poomse, the choreographed forms that stand as the central pillar of WTF-style tae kwon do, are rich in an abundance of natural metaphor. Borrowing heavily from the ancient, Asian classic, the I Ching, these essential patterns draw their philosophical individualism from the palgwe whose eight sets of trigrams represent nature in its fullness. The virtues of thunder, wind, water, fire and earth are all in evidence as the practitioner learns to overcome the physical limitations of the body, instead experiencing the spiritual aspects of The Way while performing this form of moving meditation. Natural harmony, too, should be evident in the execution of all techniques as it applies to the human anatomy. By practicing within the constraints of the body’s natural range of motion, stress and injury will be brought to a minimum. Likewise, permitting the muscles to remain in a relaxed and natural state will result in the development of explosive power upon impact. Consequently, since The Way is all encompassing in its relationship to physiology, natural movement equates to do. Clearly, from the early stages of social development on up to the present, an understanding of do has been accompanied by a deep appreciation of nature. In fact, one cannot exist without the other.     

The Way, then, is unmistakably paved by virtuous thought and action. It is arrived at through diligent practice and a never ending commitment to excellence. To waver is an admission of one’s humanity. To reclaim the rightful path, however, is a sure sign of discipline and commitment. In the words of the Zen patriarch, Bodhidharma: “All know the Way; few actually walk it.” As we advance in the martial arts our sense of balance, both physically and spiritually, begins to increase. Better health ensues. Reflexes are sharpened and a profound appreciation for the value of life pervades our being. Finally, we are rewarded with increased confidence and self-respect through our knowledge of self-defense. This course is a journey marked by many mileposts. It is a highway whose unbroken line leads to the philosophical and spiritual refinement of the individual. With each new revelation the practitioner comes closer to the ultimate goal of enlightenment. This journey, this road is called tae kwon do and it is defined by its simple, two letter suffix, do.  

Master Doug Cook, a 6th dan black belt, is head instructor of the Chosun Taekwondo Academy located in Warwick, New York, a student of Grandmaster Richard Chun, and author of the best-selling books entitled: Taekwondo…Ancient Wisdom for the Modern Warrior, Traditional Taekwondo…Core Techniques, History and Philosophy, Taekwondo... A Path to Excellence and Taekwondo Black Belt Poomsae...Original Koryo and Koryo co-authored with Grandmaster Richard Chun published by YMAA Publications Center, Inc. He can be reached for discussions or seminars at chosuntkd@yahoo.com or www.chosuntkd.com.

Article originally published in Taekwondo Times magazine Traditions column 

October, 2002

The Eum/Yang: Symbol of Harmony, Balance and Acceptance of Constant Change by Master Doug Cook

This article was published in Taekwondo Times Magazine issue #67 August, 2013

Taoism and its reliance on the Way or path of natural order, remains a cornerstone of Asian thought to this day and has given rise to what is perhaps one of the most recognized icons of all time: the Yin/Yang.

This eternal symbol, rooted in the ancient Chinese Book of Changes, or I Ching (Korean: Juyeok), is composed of two tear-shaped elements circling one another. Nestled in the lobe of each is a representative sample of its mate. On a three dimensional level, this elementary circle can be extrapolated into two, discreet orbiting polarities thus giving rise to a spiral, satisfying both the cyclical and linear nature of life as we travel through time.

Yet, how does this timeless icon apply to the Korean discipline of tae kwon do? The answer to this question lies in how deeply the practitioner wishes to probe the metaphysical aspects of the martial arts. Taking a utilitarian approach to the basic theme underscoring the Eum/Yang can have a significant impact on the practical application of tae kwon do technique in general. For example, poomsae, hyung or tul, the choreographed formal exercises that stand as a central pillar of traditional tae kwon do, borrow heavily from the philosophical principles surrounding the I Ching. Each of the Kukkiwon gup or color belt poomsae draw their philosophical individualism from the Palgwe whose eight sets of trigrams surrounding the Eum/Yang represent nature in its fullness. The natural elements of heaven, thunder, wind, water, fire and earth, are all in evidence as the practitioner learns to overcome the physical limitations of the body, instead experiencing the spiritual aspects supported by these components while performing this brand of moving meditation.The Ying/Yang furthermore acts as a metaphor for the duality of opposites; the struggle between two opposing forces to exist in a state of equilibrium. Moreover, it embraces a belief in constant change as a central dynamic of daily life. Even though certain characteristics of this time-honored symbol are altered somewhat in the Korean Eum/Yang and the Japanese In/Yo, the underlying principles inherent in its design remain fixed. Depicted in its elegance is the never-ending harmony that exists between two unlike forces; forces such as light and dark, soft and hard, right and left, good and evil, and night and day. This harmonic resolution rests on the fact that, rather than negating one another, these contradictions are supportive in their oneness. Eum is considered the passive, receptive polarity, while Yang can be thought of as the assertive or active partner. Dividing them is a high-energy, sine-curve boundary line. Rather than remaining in a static state, this division vibrates kinetically with Ki, the vital life force.

Meditating on the Eum/Yang, one ultimately concludes that almost everything we do in tae kwon do returns to this elegant symbol. From the give and take of self-defense drills, where one practitioner lends their body to another under the shadow of potential injury, to the relaxed state of the muscles as a prelude to the penetrating power of a kick or a strike, harmony between opposites abound. A healthy, balanced juxtaposition between competition and practical self-defense must be maintained as well if the art and sport of the discipline are to coexist in concordance with one another, ultimately benefiting both sides of the equation.

Finally, if we hope to realize a substantive gain from our practice, we must cultivate a deep appreciation for the breath containing Ki, the universal life force. Therefore, if the Eum/Yang exhibits anything in its extreme simplicity, it is the smooth transfer of breath - inhalation and exhalation particularly during meditation - as it mindfully enters and leaves the body. This action clearly provides potential energy coupled with an amplification of technique so vital to the martial artist.     

Unquestionably, tae kwon do is about kicking, striking and self-defense. Moreover, it has clearly blossomed into a world sport with full recognition by the International Olympic Committee. Yet, as in the past, it remains a vehicle for developing a strong character and a sharp mind. One is constantly reminded of this dichotomy by the universal symbol of the Eum/Yang.

Master Doug Cook, a 6^th dan black belt, is head instructor of the Chosun Taekwondo Academy located in Warwick, New York, a senior student of Grandmaster Richard Chun, and author of four best-selling books focusing on taekwondo. He can be reached for lectures, workshops or questions at www.chosuntkd.com or info@chosuntkd.com.

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The Alphabet Soup of Taekwondo

Appeared in TaeKwonDo Times magazine "Traditions" column

In modern taekwondo, there seems no shortage of enticing programs ostensibly meant to bolster enthusiasm but, upon closer inspection, more likely intended to enhance student retention. Terms such as Black Belt Club, S.W.A.T. Team, Splits Club and S.T.O.R.M. Team, abound to name a few. Yet, what is it about these acronym-rich entities that bode poorly for the transmission of traditional taekwondo as the noble art that it was meant to be?

Being a successful school owner for almost two decades and throwing my entire adult life into practicing, teaching and writing about traditional taekwondo, I more than most know the value and, frankly, the necessity, of retaining students. Without the dedicated practitioners who cross the threshold of our dojang doors day in and day out, we would be left with nothing more than four square walls, some puzzle mat and an assortment of training gear; not a promising environment for the perpetuation of the Korean martial arts and certainly not a winning model for a competent instructor to earn a living.

Truth is there are critics out there who claim that money should never enter into the equation of conveying martial arts to those worthy of its virtues; that teaching taekwondo, karate-do, tangsoodo, or any other Asian discipline, should be done pro bono. While I strongly disagree with this concept, I disagree equally with the notion of relying on clever marketing gimmicks, if I may refer to them as such, for branding programs that should be a basic component of the standard taekwondo curriculum in the first place.

For instance, we as martial arts instructors should be encouraging all of our color belt students to reach for the coveted black belt at some point during their martial arts journey and not simply those who can afford to pay a fee in addition to their monthly tuition for the privilege of being members of a Black Belt Club. Presently, our school is home to well over one-hundred black belts with 80% of these being adults. Yet, I have never relied upon questionable schemes that segregate students predicated not on their level of proficiency, but rather on their ability to buy into a program of advancement based largely on club membership.  Show me a white belt who does not sincerely wish to achieve the esteemed honor of earning a black belt and the absurdity of these labels quickly become apparent. It is incumbent upon masters and instructors alike to motivate students through a comprehensive curriculum of pure-form, traditional taekwondo skills supplemented by encouragement rather than on an alphabet soup of financially predatory programs albeit if they are, to some extent, benign.

Nevertheless, there are exceptions. Many schools have established a Leadership Team – a group of individuals, in our case adolescents, who wish to gain more from their taekwondo training than the standard routine can afford them. This desire is compounded by a requirement to perform community service on a quarterly basis and to begin the long, pedagogical process of learning how to teach taekwondo, not only practice it. Members of our Leadership Team train vigorously, assist with KickStart and Youth Training classes, enjoy culturally-related field trips and raise tens of thousands of dollars for local charities. They are absorbing highly valuable philanthropic skills, reaching out to the community and cultivating compassion for society in the process. However, even this worthy mission can be corrupted by exorbitant fees ranging, as I have heard, often into hundreds of dollars per month. We charge nothing above monthly tuition for participation in our Leadership Team where the member’s only contract is their commitment.

The desire to establish a commercially solvent martial arts school should be accompanied by the realization that traditional taekwondo training is simply not for everyone. Unfortunately, not all who begin will continue regardless of all the encouragement we can afford to give. With this in mind, for the school owner or manager with little or no business experience, it is easy to fall prey to illusory programs that mirror attempts by gyms and health clubs to secure membership. Lengthy annual contracts, limited schedules, abbreviated class time, delinquent fees, third-party billing companies, unnecessary clubs fees, the “dumbing-down” of the syllabus, all fall into this category. Some of these resources can prove indispensible to those unwilling or unable to take responsibility for the clerical component of their institute. However, financially-obligatory pacts that require individuals to pay tuition after termination of membership can prove onerous at best. I personally have never supported practices such as these and have enjoyed continuous growth every year since our school’s inception. Yes, it requires more work on the part of my staff and me, but as any martial arts school owner who truly appreciates what they do for a living can tell you, I am glad for it.

I realize I will receive criticism and push-back from a segment of my colleagues for revealing my views regarding the branding of programs that should be commonplace. Nevertheless, it has always been my opinion that students embrace traditional taekwondo as a vehicle intended to enrich their lives through the sincere practice of a disciplined martial art and not to be bludgeoned by dubious sales strategies that, if left unchecked, are certain to pollute the dojang.

In today’s world where money is often the measure of success, it is easy to allow dollars to trump tradition in the martial arts. And since, unlike other professions, taekwondo is not officially regulated, some individuals take advantage of this aberration. Yet, financial victory, technical excellence and community awareness are all within reach simply by offering students an uncorrupted, comprehensive curriculum in conjunction with a clear path to advancement that naturally results in student retention.

A taekwondo school as a viable business entity should stand in solemn tribute to the moral values we teach – courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit – and not be built on acrimonious, manipulative tactics meant to hold students against their will. Martial arts by their very nature, act a filter supporting those who personify discipline while discouraging those who consistently seek the easy way out. This process should not be subverted by unbridled greed stoked by a sea of superfluous programs.

 

 

Master Doug Cook, a 6^th dan black belt, is head instructor of the Chosun Taekwondo Academy located in Warwick, New York, a senior student of Grandmaster Richard Chun, and author of three best-selling books entitled: Taekwondo…Ancient Wisdom for the Modern Warrior, Traditional Taekwondo - Core Techniques, History and Philosophy, and Taekwondo–A Path to Excellence, all published by YMAA of Boston. Master Cook and Grandmaster Chun have recently completed a new book, Taekwondo Black Belt Poomsae: Original Koryo and Koryo, targeted for publication in July of 2013. Master Cook can be reached for lectures, workshops or questions at www.chosuntkd.com or info@chosuntkd.com.

Chosun e-newsletter archive Volumn 4 #6 June, 2013

Dear Martial Arts Enthusiast,

Welcome to the June, 2013 edition of the Chosun Taekwondo Academy e-newsletter.
While many martial arts schools abbreviate their schedule for the summer, we are happy to offer even more training options at Chosun. Be sure to check your July invoice for the Chosun summer schedule

that features Sunday Training in the Warwick Town Park. Join Master Cook, Chosun instructors, and guest master instructors for exciting mornings of special training surrounded by nature. No charge / rain or shine / for all martial artists regardless of school affiliation. Happy summer training!

For highlights of 2012 at Chosun, view the Chosun Taekwondo Academy 2012 Retrospective.

Kamsahamnida,
Patty Cook, Editorwww.facebook.com/chosuntkd

Happy Father's Day!

Chosun Taekwondo Academy celebrating 16 years!

 

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Chosun e-newsletter archive Volumn 4 # 3 March, 2013

Dojang News and Events
Chosun Belt Promotion Test
Sunday February 24, 2013
Warwick Town Hall, Warwick, NY
Chosun hosted its 61st Belt promotion test and it was by far the largest. Excitement was high and technique was sharp as students displayed their skills. Our illustrious judging panel included: Master Joe Preira, Master Erica Linthorst, Master Danielle Roche, Master Brad Shipp, Master Doug Cook, Grandmaster Won Kuk Kim, Master Terrie Testa, and Master Richard Tamian. A whole school photo was taken that will appear in TaeKwonDo Times magazine. Congratulations to Chosun students on their achievements.Read entire newsletter...

Chosun e-newsletter archive Volumn 4 #1 January, 2013

Dear Martial Arts Enthusiast,
Welcome to the January, 2013 edition of the Chosun Taekwondo Academy e-newsletter. Aristotle said, "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act but a habit." As we pause to look back over the past year and anticipate the new one, we see that the students and instructors of Chosun embody this sentiment in a myriad of ways. This is what makes Chosun strong and why we are all on a "path to excellence" together. In times of turbulence or calm,the
five tenets of Taekwondo, Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control and Indomitable Spirit, serve as the bedrock principles that never change and help us strive to meet the challenges that we may confront. May peace and prosperity be yours in the coming year.
For highlights of 2012 at Chosun, view the Chosun Taekwondo Academy 2012 Retrospective.

Kamsahamnida, Patty Cook, Editor www.facebook.com/chosuntkd
Happy New Year! 새복 많이 받으세요.
Se Bok Mane Ba Da Se Yo

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The Vital Role of Meditation in Tae Kwon Do

by Master Doug Cook
TaeKwonDo Times Magazine November, 2012 
"Traditions" column
(appears in every edition)

 

Observing a martial artist seated quietly in a meditative posture bears little resemblance to the skilled defender most assume him to be. Meditation, however, plays a vital role in preparing the taekwondoist, both mentally and spiritually, for the demands of self-defense, the benefits of ki development, and a potential leap in performance through the practice of visualization.

In order to act rapidly in the face of a threat that has escalated beyond verbal mediation, the mind and the body must react rather than anticipate; this important principle lies at the core of traditional defensive strategy. Making the false assumption that an attacker will execute a punch when, in truth, his intention is to kick, is certain to result in severe injury to the defender. To appreciate the value of meditation as it applies to this component of self-defense, one needs look no further than the stillness of a serene pool of water reflecting the image of a full moon. Because the surface is unbroken by ripples, the image is pure and undistorted.  The mind of the martial artist can be conditioned to act in a similar fashion. Through the sincere and diligent practice of meditation, the taekwondoist will develop an uncanny ability to react to an unprovoked attack rather than anticipate a potential false move. How is this possible? The mind, like an unbroken stallion, has a proclivity for galloping away when left to its own designs. Thoughts of daily activities, bills, work or school, all have the ability to intrude on a tranquil mind. Great effort is required to focus on stillness, emptiness. Nothing, no mind, or mushin, is what the martial artist seeks. Mushin is the mental state where one is unhindered by preconception. Yet, as difficult as this stage of consciousness may be to achieve, we do have an ally in our quest. Just as the Asian warriors of the past, who walked a razor’s edge between life and death in the service of their king, meditated before battle, we too, as modern day warriors can relieve the dangers of anticipation by cultivating a clear and tranquil mind. However, there are many types of meditation. Which is appropriate to achieve the result we desire? One approach my students and I practice at the Chosun Taekwondo Academy as a preface to our training consists of sitting cross-legged in the half-lotus posture on a folded blanket to promote comfort. The hands are positioned in a gesture known as a mudra, a Sanskrit term meaning to seal or authenticate.  Again, there are a variety of mudras, each intended to amplify or authenticate a spiritual concept. The cosmic mudra, where the back of the right hand is placed in the palm of the left hand (reverse for men), thumbs touching, is a simple and effective mudra to begin with. Make a perfect oval rather than permitting the thumbs to create a “peak” or the palms to collapse into a “valley”. Let the hands gently rest in the lap, close the eyes and sit erect with the nose in line with the navel. Aside from allowing for a smooth exchange of breath, this posture will encourage a free flow of ki, or internal energy, to circulate throughout the body. Using the breath as a focal point, slowly inhale through the nose and exhale through the. Invariably, as you meditate, stray thoughts will attempt to invade the mind; briefly acknowledge these feelings and permit them to pass through your consciousness, all the while returning to your breathing. Assign a single count to each cycle of inhalation/exhalation. Count to ten only and then return to one. Eventually, with patience and time, you may be able to abandon your counting altogether and simply focus on the breath. This basic method of meditation should serve to calm the mind prior to training and partially eliminate the distraction of anticipating rather than reacting.

Moreover, enhancing the flow of ki throughout the body is yet another objective of meditation. Why is this abstract action important to the martial artist? The manipulation of ki, the universal life force, can be used for both benign and punitive purposes. For instance, in order to promote health, the practitioner of kiatsu, or ki therapy, messages the various acupoints along the body to stimulate ki flow; when an abundant amount of ki is present, a sense of well being is experienced, when it is deficient, illness results. The taekwondoist, on the other hand, channels ki to a specific part of the body with the hope of amplifying technique and to prevent injury. This requires long practice but can be addressed through meditation and breathing exercises. While inhaling and exhaling, place your hands on your abdomen. What do you feel? When you breathe in, the abdominal area should expand; likewise, when you exhale, the abdominal area contracts. This process is commonly known as normal or Buddhist Breathing. Now, make a conscious effort to reverse this sequence, allowing the opposite to occur where the area surrounding your tan-jun, or ki center, two inches below the navel, contracts during inhalation and conversely expands when you exhale. This style of breathing is referred to as reverse or Taoist Breathing and represents an ancient method by which your breathing acts as a pump to move the flow of ki throughout a series of pathways or meridians traversing the body. This practice coincides with the last mission of meditation which entails visualization. Sitting in the meditative posture described above, and employing the Taoist Breathing method, visualize taking in a fresh, clean stream of ki through the nose as you inhale and releasing a cloud of dark, used ki similar to smoke, as you exhale. Following this meditation exercise, the body should feel revitalized and ready for vigorous practice. At some point you can imagine lifting the ki from the tan-jun and mentally transporting it to various parts of the body. As a cautionary note, Taoist Breathing can have ill effects if used excessively and should only be practiced for short periods of time.

Lastly, visualization during meditation can also be used prior to promotion tests and competitions as a precursor to success. It is not uncommon for the Olympic competitor to mentally “see” him or herself performing flawlessly while meditating before the actual event. Similarly, the martial artist can step through the requirements of a belt test while in a meditative state and hopefully reduce the stress intrinsic in the actual examination.

Clearly, the practice of meditation presents great benefits for the taekwondoist and should be a part of every style’s curriculum. Sadly, meditation is often overlooked due to its metaphysical nature except in schools addressing the more traditional aspects of tae kwon do. Nevertheless, the reward of adding a meditative component to your training is obvious and should be explored with a qualified instructor.

 

Master Doug Cook, a 6^th dan black belt, is head instructor of the Chosun Taekwondo Academy located in Warwick, New York, a senior student of Grandmaster Richard Chun, and author of three best-selling books entitled: Taekwondo…Ancient Wisdom for the Modern Warrior, Traditional Taekwondo - Core Techniques, History and Philosophy, and Taekwondo–A Path to Excellence, all published by YMAA of Boston. Master Cook and Grandmaster Chun have recently completed a new book focusing on Original Koryo and Koryo poomsae targeted for publication in July of 2013. Master Cook can be reached for lectures, workshops or questions at www.chosuntkd.com or info@chosuntkd.com.

 

 

 

 

Traditions Column by Master Doug Cook November Issue of TaeKwonDo Times Magazine

Not Everything Needs a Ball 

 Not long ago, my wife was speaking with the editor of our local newspaper regarding a recently submitted press release describing a public-service event hosted by the Chosun Taekwondo Academy Leadership Team, a group of young individuals who routinely engage in elevated training, provide community service on a regular basis, and utilize the virtues of tae kwon do as a vehicle to promote leadership skills.

During the course of the conversation, the editor praised the group for their tireless efforts in assisting the underprivileged and further recognized the fact that this was not the first time he had received such a bulletin publicizing our outreach program. Additionally, he was quick to note that local community leaders and citizens in concert take heed of the good deeds propagated by our students, all done with a minimum of fanfare.

Then the conversation took an interesting turn. While not coming out directly and saying so, he juxtaposed our group against various sports teams in the area whose primary mission is to dominate on the playing fields often at the cost of the very virtues supported by traditional tae kwon do training. While these entities often strive to stimulate charitable contributions as well, they do so obliquely without recognizing the noble engine that drives the process of compassion, and thus philanthropy, albeit in a benign manner. He then went on to summarize this notion by uttering the phrase “not everything needs a ball”. Given the huge popularity of varsity sports and the attention they are given by the local press, I was astonished by his comment.

At this point, I should mention that I personally have never been a sports enthusiast and, in truth, find many of the emotions elicited by such pastimes distasteful at best. By way of example, whether it be taekwondo as a sport, football or little league baseball, the unbridled actions of overzealous parents in distorted support of their offspring during the competitive process, frequently borders on riotous conduct. This atmosphere of behavior is not what we are attempting to cultivate in the traditional martial arts and to hear a man of erudition encapsulate this concept so succinctly was heartwarming indeed.

I am certain many readers will take exception with my point of view; especially those with children who participate in a variety of extra-curricular activities including those mentioned above. But it is the heritage of the Korean martial arts that stimulates the concept of giving back to ones community just as the ancient Hwarang warriors did when not occupied by battle. In my opinion, tae kwon do training undeniably represents nobility in motion. Every class is tempered with courtesy, humility, compassion and purpose. And for youngsters whose minds and hearts are uniquely open to suggestion, this is paramount.

Quite naturally, those unfamiliar with the discipline will argue, and understandably so, that tae kwon do resonates with aggression and violence, offering no socially-redeeming qualities whatsoever. And on the surface, this may be true. But if one were to take a closer look under the hood, milestones in the elevation of character will be revealed…all this minus the competitive mindset and barely masked hostility, often fostered under the guise of team sports.

As instructors of tae kwon do, we frequently say that “the only person you are competing against is yourself.” And for the most part, this is accurate effectively removing it from the fundamental doctrines of sport. Practitioners, of any age, sincerely seeking an enhanced lifestyle gradually alter longstanding habits of a questionable nature in favor of those that bolster integrity, compassion and discipline; traits that go hand in hand with cultivating an empathic worldview. Upon closer investigation, we see the long shadow cast by Confucianism on this process. Since traditional tae kwon do is influenced by the three Asian philosophical paradigms including Taoism, Buddhism and Confucianism, this is understandable.

Confucius, or more correctly K’ung Fu-tzu, espoused the cultivation of the “superior man”, one who is aware of his or her unique place in, and responsibility to, society at large. Furthermore, he taught that a single individual can influence world events through the simple projection of a benevolent state of mind. The Korean proverb, su shin je ga chi guk pyong chun fa, supports this philosophy. Loosely translated, this dictum states that, “peace within the individual brings peace within the family; peace in the family brings peace in the community; peace in the community, peace in the country and, ultimately, peace throughout the world.” As improbable as this may sound, there is little doubt that compassion towards fellow human beings goes a long way. Rather than being isolated in a vacuum, correct action ripples across humanity with much the same effect as would a pebble when dropped into a serene pool of water. Following this path leads the individual to develop a sense of purpose and harmony within the community.

Moreover, it should be remembered that the martial arts of the 21^st century are significantly different from those practiced centuries ago. While self-defense remains the core purpose of practice, enrichment of character has evolved as a central theme as well. This metamorphosis began during the late 19^th century with the creation of disciplines such as judo and karate-do by Gigoro Kano and Gichen Funakoshi respectfully. Martial arts intended to sustain a warrior on the field of battle became martial ways, or do, with the added benefit of building physical fitness, nationalism and morality in youngsters and college students alike. For the most part, with the exception of combat sport and MMA, this concept continues on today as the standard model in contemporary martial arts education. From this, it is not difficult to perceive the connection between a desire to improve the lives of others through community outreach and the virtuous tenets of traditional tae kwon do including courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit.

Lastly, while sport and all its trappings can provide an outlet for aggression and create social bonds by way of teambuilding, they all, by definition, are restricted to a set place and time. Meanwhile, the robust philosophical foundation that acted as a code of honor for the Hwarang continues to support traditional tae kwon do in the new millennium and remains as valid today as it was in the seventh century when these noble warriors sought moral wisdom beyond the zone of combat.

 Ultimately, the modern martial artist, of whatever age, should not only be physically fit and adroit in the ways of self-defense, but in addition, become a beacon of strength and courage for family, friends and those less fortunate than he or she. By extension, enriching ones community through programs of systematic outreach, particularly by young practitioners, proves beyond a doubt that “not everything needs a ball” to provide a sense of self-worth coupled with community spirit. The above, amplified by an element of self-respect, is what it means to be a true modern day warrior clad in the armor of virtuous action, tailored by a earnest study of traditional tae kwon do.

 

  

Chosun e-newsletter Archive Volumn #3 September, 2012

Dojang News and Events

Chosun Belt Promotion Test
Sunday August 19, 2012
The Chosun Summer Belt Promotion Test was the largest to date and was a testament to the perseverance it takes to be proficient in the art of taekwondo. From white to black belt, students demonstrated high levels of skill, technique and focus. Congratulations to all Chosun students. Special THANKS to Chosun instructors, Master Gary Stevens and Master Joseph Preira for officiating.

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TaeKwonDo Times Traditions Column by Master Doug Cook September, 2012

The Academics of Taekwondo

Tae Kwon Do is composed of many components, most dominated by physical qualities. Front kicks, round kicks, side kicks, hand and aerial techniques abound, endowing the national Korean martial art with its unique character. Yet, as the discipline matured from its humble beginnings in the 1940s and 50s, it gained both complexity and academic dimensions until today, modern educational institutes of higher learning located in Korea offer Taekwondology, along with its comprehensive syllabus of technique, tradition, rules and regulations, as a major.

Regardless of the fact that the roots of tae kwon do date back to antiquity, historians agree that the primordial forms of the art, then known as kong soo do, tang soo do and for a brief period of time, tae soo do, were heavily influenced by Okinawan karate-do coupled with Chinese chuan fa, Japanese judo and, to some degree, aikido and jujutsu. While in transition, ritual and practice fortifying the burgeoning discipline innocently drew breath from these styles.

Then, just as the citizenry of the Korean nation were given the opportunity to reestablish their cultural and technical infrastructure - admittedly after immeasurable strife and bloodshed - so too did tae kwon do. Rising like a phoenix from the ashes of war, the disparate styles that were to evolve into a single, standardized national treasure, took on its own identity within the pantheon of Asian combat disciplines. Distinctive skills and strategies featuring philosophical underpinnings exclusive to Korean culture clearly began to emerge during the latter part of the twentieth century. This process was not easy and came at great cost, both socially and politically, to many of its founders and the organizations they would come to create. Yet, today, tae kwon do stands tall as a battle-proven form of self-defense and a fully recognized Olympic sport boasting a growth curve second to none; all this is the span of a short sixty years.

Miracles of this magnitude cannot be accomplished purely on a physical level. Rather, planning, forethought and the accumulation of knowledge must be converted into action; action stoked by the uncorrupted transmission of wisdom across generations. Lessons learned in battle during the Silla (57 BC-AD 935), Koryo (918-1392) and Chosun (1392-1910) dynasties, exemplified by warriors of the Hwarang and preserved by fighting Buddhist monks called on to defend the nation against Japanese invaders, are as valid today as they were then. Couple these tactics with a contemporary understanding of physiology, sports medicine and body mechanics, and a valid blueprint of academic standards begins to materialize.

The academic approach to tae kwon do becomes abundantly clear as one sifts through the many editorial contributions offered by scholars, masters and enlightened practitioners dedicated to the worldwide proliferation of the art. Through the magic of the Internet, technique, decorum and training rituals have been exhaustively documented for current and future use. Books, treatises and dissertations have been written to intellectually support routines and principles. These, amplified by visual aids, amount to a supreme body of knowledge that can quite literally take a lifetime to absorb. Great men and women come to mind who have generously contributed to this paradigm of data - more than not, at little or no personal gain above that of serving the art. Highly qualified individuals such as Richard Chun, Sang Kyu Shim, Jane Hallander, Kyong Myong Lee, Son Duk Sung, Sihak Henry Cho, Stuart Anslow, TaeKwonDo Times columnist Karen Eden and Alex Gillis share this distinction with others too numerous to mention.

And just what is being documented that justifies tae kwon do as a discipline worthy of academic pursuit? First and foremost, the technical catalog that defines the traditional Korean martial art. General Choi Hong Hi, a primary founder who created the International Taekwon-Do Federation in March of 1966, claimed an arsenal containing 3200 separate techniques, each with its own distinct purpose and method of execution, many depicted in his fifteen-volume Encyclopedia of Taekwon-Do. Similarly, an updated version of the Kukkiwon Textbook reissued in 2005 devotes over 700 pages to the proper articulation of technique. But wisdom accumulated over the decades does not stop there. Landmark works by Grandmaster Richard Chun and his contemporaries portray defacto training standards and procedures relied upon worldwide by hundreds of thousands of students.

Moreover, since tae kwon do is recognized as a comprehensive form of self-defense with a pedigree reaching far back to the distant past, there are metaphysical and well as physical concepts to ponder. Exploring the use of meditation and ki, or internal energy development, as essential elements of the art demands research that can only be accomplished through the interrogation of Asian historical and, in some cases, medical records compiled centuries ago. Valid examples of these are the Yellow Emperor’s Inner Canon, a cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine, coupled with the physical lessons posited by the Myue Dobo Tongji (Illustrated Manual of Korean Martial Arts), authored in 1790.

Then, not to marginalize their significance, if one is to accrue an absolute understanding of any classical martial art, then it is equally essential to survey influential native customs, physiological concepts that power its engine and moral doctrines that govern its use. Many of these can be found in the teachings of Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism.     

Clearly, taken as a whole the ingredients cited above compound to represent a body of academic knowledge profoundly worthy of transmission from one generation to the next. One only need embrace it.    

Naturally, as with any established sport, there exists a majority of practitioners who will exclusively participate for competitive purposes only. And because tae kwon do offers much in the way of physical fitness and athletic recognition on the collegiate, state, national and international level, and because just as a coin, it exhibits two sides, one representing the game and the other the art, this is entirely understandable. Yet it is important to recognize the difference between cultivating athletes and holistically-trained martial artists - practitioners who are not only proficient in the ring, but who wholeheartedly welcome knowledge concerning the vast mosaic that is traditional tae kwon do.

 

 

Chosun e-newsletter Archive volumn #3 August 2012

Dojang News and Events
2012 Chosun Taekwondo Academy Korea Training and Cultural Tour
Saturday July 7 - Saturday July 14, 2012
The 2012 tour was another unbridled success. Tedanhi
Kamsahamnida to all tour participants, family members, friends and fellow students at home who followed us online! It is not too early to consider making a dream come true in two years by reserving your place on the 2014 Chosun Korea Training & Cultural Tour.
If you missed the Korea Travelogue, click on the site below for photos, maps, stories and more from the 2012 Chosun Korea Training & Cultural Tour. Subscribe to receive more updates and photos as they are added.
2012 Chosun Korea Tour Travelogue
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Chosun e-newsletter Archive Volumn #3 July 2012

Photo Shoot for new YMAA book by GM Richard Chun and Master Doug CookMonday June 18, 2012
Fort Lee, NJGrandmaster Richard Chun, Master Doug Cook and Master Fred Kouefati met for an extensive one-day photo shoot that would yield vibrant illustrations for the soon-to-be-published book Taekwondo Black Belt Poomsae: Original Koryo & Koryo, offered by YMAA Publications of Boston. With a release date of autumn 2013, the prime subject of the work as the title denotes, revolves around two Korean-based poomsae, or formal exercises as they are generically known.
(excerpt from upcoming article, A Photo Shoot for the Ages by Master Doug Cook)
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Chosun e-Newsletter Archive Volumn 3 #6 June, 2012

Dojang News and Events

May 20, 2012
Chosun Belt Promotion Test
Almost 100 students participated in the recent Chosun Belt Promotion Test.
From white to black belt, students demonstrated the proficiency, spirit and respect of true martial artists. Highlights of the day included some unforgettable breaks by Chosun Black Belt students. Among them were speed breaks, a head break and a double jumping break. Congratulations to all Chosun students.


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