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Practice can be described as performing a set of movements with the focused intention of doing
them as well as you are able. Improvement should not be consciously sought; this creates a focus on comparison and judgment. Instead focus should be on the correct performance of each technique in isolation. One must be aware and mindful of the performance, without making conscious judgment. To practice in this manner naturally leads to improvement and insight, often in unexpected ways. Seeking improvement leads to either exhilaration or depression, depending on how results accord with our expectations. Instead, simply performing the techniques as well as we are able provides endless opportunity to develop. To embed a new form or technique in the unconscious mind requires a large number of correct repetitions; a minimum of two thousand repetitions is often stated. These repetitions must all be with correct form. To practice poor form is dangerous: the faulty technique will be embedded. If we are limited by stiffness or weakness from achieving a desired result, the movement can be adapted to allow correct form; a kicking technique may be performed gedan rather than jodan, or balance aided by a partner. The form is first practiced slowly, to allow conscious control of movements. As movements become smooth and well-coordinated, speed and power can be properly developed. Once a technique has been embedded through correct practice, regular practice is required for maintenance. The frequency of maintenance needed will vary according to the individual. It is also necessary to check performance regularly against the introduction of unconscious errors. Further improvements will be reached through additional practice, as the nervous system and muscles continue to adapt to exercise. If a technique can be practiced up to one thousand times a day, improvements will continue to be uncovered. Value can be found in practice performed when tired or even when injured. The movements of the body will change, and this can increase understanding. If tiredness or injury permits only poor technique, however, correct practice is not possible. True practice is not restricted to the performance of a technique. Every movement teaches us something about how the body works. If the body needs to develop strength or flexibility, it is good to address this through stretching or resistance training. As well as developing the muscles and nerves required, this permits an understanding of the way the body and mind work to achieve the technique, and will improve confidence and resistance to injury. It is not true practice to repeat a movement or technique mindlessly. The full attention must be given, and the correct amount of effort applied, if the practice is to have meaning. It is very difficult to be constantly aware of the body and mind during practice. This is one reason for working with slow movements, so they can be observed, but this creates further opportunities for the mind to wander. If a kata is completed without conscious intention, the practice loses true meaning, and learning is restricted or absent. The many distractions must be ignored, yet awareness of all aspects of the surroundings (zanshin) must be fully maintained. The mind must also be trained: the limit of our attention (mindfulness) is perhaps the greatest barrier to proper practice. The discipline required can be hard to achieve, and this mental discipline is perhaps the most important goal of practice. Understanding how to use the attention, and skill in doing so, can be gained through the practice of meditation exercises. Proper practice is also a form of meditation, creating calmness and mental energy. When teaching others, it is not possible to impart the understanding you have gained through practice: one can only provide information. The student must practice for themselves to gain understanding. It is only possible to provide a good example and to show the way in which they can practice, and to encourage their commitment. Following the way is the discipline and achievement of each individual, and this uniqueness is part of its true value. Practice followed in this way is a most enduring and rewarding experience. There is no boredom or loss of enthusiasm, as each repetition is new. Success or failure are equal routes to further understanding. It is necessary to guard against pride or arrogance in skills achieved through practice. This leads to complacency and overconfidence, loss of attention and an end to learning. Equally a continued failure to perform a technique well should not cause discouragement: continuing to train without expectation of success is the true meaning of practice. Quotations A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Lao Tzu, Tao Te Ching. As evening draws near, you regret that you did not practice early in the morning. The worldly pleasure which you enjoy now becomes suffering in the future. Why then are you attached to this pleasure? One moment of practice becomes lasting pleasure. Why then do you not practice? Won Hyo In order to reach the depths of reality, only sit down, say for twenty or thirty years, and if you fail to understand, cut off this old man's head. Chao-chu The practice is the teacher. Your practice is your teacher. Maurine Stuart. Teaching is not difficult, listening is not difficult either, but what is truly difficult is to become conscious of what you have in yourself and be able to use it as your own. DT Suzuki, the marvellous cat. If you do not get it from yourself, where will you go for it? Unattributed |