Today was a great day for my training. I taught the shaolin fitness class and as always, it was a great experience! The positive energy in the room with the students that attend was riveting! I could feel myself get very pumped up as soon as I walked into the school. Everyone there is ready to work hard and push themselves to the limit. It reminded me of the horse races, when the horse is in the gate, just unable to hold still in anticipation of what is to come.
I had planned to get home right after class to clean my house, and organize some things. I happened to be the only black belt there when my class ended, so decided I had to stay, and may as well use my time wisely and practice. I got quite into my practice by the time other black belts got there, so decided my housework could wait.
I was working on a form that I had known for years. In this form there are a couple of spots that I have always struggled with. I have seen others do it, and I have seen it on video. Still, I just couldn't figure out how to do it properly or retain it for my next practice. By asking in class, I don't get the chance to practice it, and so I quickly forget for the next time. (My mind is getting old and my memory with it). So, I continue to struggle with these two parts, and frustration sometimes sets in.
Today, at open training, another black belt stepped in and offered some help on these two particular parts in the form. I GOT IT!! They helped me to take the time to understand the proper execution of the techniques, and then I practiced it over and over. Hours later, I can still remember how to perform those particular techniques in the form. Now to practice and perfect it in a way that my muscle memory can help my old mind to remember.
This was HUGE for me. After years of trying to do these parts of the form, I have finally got it. All it took was about 10 minutes at open training, and the helping hand, or hands actually, of someone willing to reach out. This was a great accomplishment for me, and one that I would never had gained had I just left the training hall to go home and do housework.
Sifu Stoddart
- Sifu Stoddart
- My kids and the strong bond we share, are the most important things to me. Over the years I've done many things. I attained my certification for a fitness instructor and taught in many areas such as kickboxing, circuit training, pilates, African dance, hatha and ashtanga yoga. I have received my certification for a Special Needs Educational assistant. This allowed me to work with a group of wonderful kids in a Positive Development Program at an inner city school in Edmonton. Today, I am an area supervisor for a retail home renovation store. I achieved my certification as a belayer in top rope rock climbing, and also as a lead climber. I attained my black belt in 2004. There is an excitement and feeling of self sustaining when I grow a garden, collect wild berries, then can a whole winters supply of juices, jams, sauces, syrups, fruits, ketchups, and salsas. I am very passionate about the outdoors, and my big dream of all times is to one day live out in the mountains with nothing but the wilderness at my doorstep. I would hike, fish, x country ski, snow shoe, kayak, mountain bike, rock climb, practice kung fu on top of a mountain, and grow a huge garden in the summer.
1 comment:
I really loved these blogs Sifu! And your form at the Chinese New Year was incredible. I am in awe...Thank you for sharing your thoughts.
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