Martial Arts has steadily increased in popularity from the very first movie starring Bruce Lee to the rise of the UFC and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). More and more people have witnessed the effectiveness of Martial Arts and the legitimacy of such skills. However, much of the traditional Martial Arts remain a mystery, even though these have been firmly incorporated and synergised into the curriculum of the modern-day Mixed Martial Artist.
William “Crando” Saito is the 16th Grandmaster of Igaryu Ninjutsu and founder of the Shinbukan Martial Arts Academy in Australia. Saito Soke embodies the true Spirit of Martial Arts. His nature is humble and jovial which is indicative of one who has unburdened himself from ego to embrace true inner strength and peace. His passion for Martial Arts is easily discernible as he presides over the sparring bouts of his dear students with excitement and enthusiasm.
I first became aware of the center as a concept through Sensei Rick Horton who is an experienced and articulate Karate practitioner. He emphasizes the use of the Center as a focal point through which a person executes a specific task. This can be walking, talking, and even practicing Martial Arts.
Located a few inches below your belly button, the Center has been a fundamental concept in Martial Arts, Spirituality and Yogic practices. It is an important aspect of a human being that is vital to many of our primordial functions, yet it is often misunderstood or neglected.
Children have boundless energy. At a tender age of 5 or 6 years old, they are still learning about themselves and the world they live in. They are forming their personalities which will be an integral part of who they are for the rest of their lives.
As a father, I want the best for my children. This does not mean that I want them to be immersed in a lifestyle of luxuries and for them to have anything that their hearts’ desire. This is an external and materialistic view of life. “The best”, for me, has to do with equipping them with all the skills and an attitude which will allow them to become fully functional, compassionate, and independent adults.