Spirituality and Martial Arts

Pacific Association of Women Martial Artists Spirituality and Martial Arts

Editor’s Note: Especially during difficult times, our martial arts practice can build and uplift our spirit. Many people train because of its spiritual component. But what does spirituality in the martial arts mean? How does it affect our training, and if we teach, how does it affect our teaching? How has it changed or affected how we are in the world? I thought I’d pose these questions to a number of PAWMA members. They were asked to respond in Hard and Soft, whatever way worked for them. These are their responses. Working Together, by Sue Leary Become Complete. While trekking in the Himalayas last year with Paula a non-profit corporation Smith, we spoke the word Vol. 32 No. 2 Spring 2009 “Namasté” many times in greeting to those taking care Inside This Newsletter of us, and others traveling the Spirituality and Martial Arts...... 1 same path. Our Sherpa guide Sue Leary, Sandie Benevides, told us it means, “I salute the Michelle McVadon, Sheila Haddad, god within you.” Kim Ivy, Mamie Chow, Michelle Trudging along up the Pleasant trail, I had a lot of time to Association Update...... 2 contemplate the meaning of Sacramento Trainings...... 3 “Namasté.” The idea that god 32nd Annual Training Camp...... 5 exists within everyone seems so intuitive. And yet, I never really thought of god in that way Warrior Woman ...... 6 because I was raised to believe that god is a separate being. Then it occurred to me that Internal Arts Without Borders...... 7 perhaps the best way to understand god is to know myself. When I realized this, I also real- Sifu Dan Tien...... 10 ized that I already had the perfect tool — tai chi. Up to that point, I had been focused on “getting” tai chi, like tai chi was a goal to be Eating Crabs by the China Sea ...... 10 achieved or a prize to be won. I spent a lot of time looking at my tai chi with a critical eye Tuyê’t Tan Dojo — Cuong Nhu..... 11 and judging myself harshly. Now I see that this was a very external approach to an internal art. Switching from wanting to “get” tai chi to viewing tai chi as a process for understand- PAWMA‘s Mission ing myself has transformed my practice. It has allowed me to let go of judgment and to approach practice with a calmer spirit and a more open heart. I no longer need to “get” Uniting and empowering tai chi. I am more willing to listen and allow the lessons to emerge. My physical body has become the vehicle by which I explore my spiritual self — the me at the core of my being. a diverse community of Before every solo practice session, I pray. Prayer is different now. I do not ask an external source. I ask myself for the humility to accept what comes up, the courage to be willing women and girls in the to look at it, the curiosity to question and explore, and the patience to allow knowledge to martial arts. be acquired over time. The result has been a clearer connection of body, mind and spirit.

Continued on page 4 ➤ Pacific Association 2 of Women Martial Artists

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Association Update Officers President: Keldyn West, Redwood City, CA President‘s Message Vice President: Susannah MacKaye, Oakland, CA Secretary: Kristen Pfendler, Vancouver, WA Treasurer: Marie Jackson, Eugene, OR Dear PAWMA members,

Members-at-Large The PAWMA Board of Directors would like to invite your Michelle McVadon (Elder Counsel), Seattle, WA help to spread the word for Camp 2009 in Olympia, WA, on Aarin Burch, Oakland, CA Labor Day Weekend (September 4 - 7). We are expanding our Joanne Factor, Seattle, WA marketing material to include an eye-catching postcard. With Elaine Powell-Ascroft, Portland, OR this bright new look we hope to appeal to all generations of Keta Tom, Corvallis, OR women martial artists while showing nice memories for members who have attended Camps in the past. COMMITTEE/CONTACT The new format also makes it easy to carry with you everywhere to give to women you meet at tournaments and Website Coordinator: Joanne Factor events when you tell them about PAWMA. Send the postcards Website Technical Support: Lori Berkowitz to friends, and post them on your refrigerator and on bulletin boards (with permission Membership Coordinator: Joanne Factor if necessary) at your school, local recreation center, gym, martial arts supply stores, or Newsletter Liaison: Sue Leary anywhere it will catch the eye of women martial artists or people who might know a woman or girl in the martial arts. REGIONAL REPS To do a large mailing and apply the postage costs as a donation to PAWMA, you can submit your receipt and receive a receipt for tax purposes. You can also receive direct Canada reimbursement for mailing expenses, but please contact us ahead of time (send email Bowen Island, BC: Jan Parker 604/947-0888, [email protected] to [email protected]) to verify that funds are still available. If you do not have enough postcards to do your mailing, you can send the mailing labels or an Excel spreadsheet of California addresses to me and I will complete the mailing (for addresses in the U.S.). Mailings to Berkeley, CA: Jude Fox 510/525-2963, [email protected] Canada are cheaper if mailed within Canada. By now you will have received the electronic version of the postcard for easy email Santa Rosa, CA: Ceylan Crow forwarding to all your martial arts friends. If you would like more postcards, please write 707/578-5889, [email protected] to me at [email protected]. Thank you all for your help in spreading the word and letting more women, teens, and CONTACT INFO girls in the martial arts know about and benefit from our community. For more information on Camp, please see page 5. For general information about PAWMA or to contact anyone above: Warm regards, Website: www.pawma.org Keldyn West Email address: [email protected] Mailing address: P.O. Box 23157 Seattle, WA 98102 Call for Nominations to the Board Contact Person: Keldyn West

The PAWMA Board of Directors needs you. If you have any of a variety of skills to offer, can devote a few hours a month, and have an interest in helping guide PAWMA into the future, please nominate yourself. If you know someone else who fits that description, please nominate them. You can take on different tasks within the Board depending on your particular skills and interests. Some of the skills and attributes needed are enthusiasm, an ability to work well on a team, communication skills, organizational or project management skills, or any other skills you think you could put to use to benefit the organization. We also need people PAWMA News 3

with Internet savvy, and website design and content management experience. We also Favorite raffle and silent auction items need someone with an aptitude for numbers and attention to detail to serve as treasurer, are school T-shirts and other clothing, with our current treasurer, Marie Jackson, available for support and training. This could be quality water bottles, martial arts gear and an exciting opportunity for someone who wants to add that kind of experience to their weapons, videos and music CDs, jewelry, resume. Ideally, the position of treasurer is a multi-year commitment. artwork, gift certificates, lotions and potions, What kind of commitment is involved? A term lasts three years. Time involved and chocolate. So, put raffle and silent auc- includes attendance at one-hour monthly phone meetings, a few hours on special projects tion donations on your shopping list and ‘to between meetings, and various organizing tasks during Camp. Board members are not eli- make’ list. Or dig out that quality stuff in the gible to apply to teach at Camp but their registration fees are waived. closet that you never use but that a woman What are the benefits? You ensure that PAWMA continues, have a voice in its direc- martial artist friend would love to have! tion, and give back to your community. You will also meet wonderful, interesting people and get the satisfaction of a job well done as well as the appreciation of the members. Meet Members on Facebook How? You can volunteer yourself or nominate someone else by emailing info@ pawma.org. The nominee will submit a statement that includes her qualifications and why PAWMA now has a groups page on she wants to join the Board by June 1 for inclusion in the PAWMA News. Elections will Facebook, the popular social networking be held during Camp with mail-in ballots in the next PAWMA News issue for those not site. It already has over 50 members and attending Camp. they want you to join too. It’s another way More information? Please contact any of the current Board members or write info@ to stay in touch with what is going on with pawma.org. PAWMA and its members, and be involved with its community. Come and make new New on the PAWMA Website friends or reacquaint yourself with old ones. Just go to www.facebook.com, create • Camp registration is OPEN and you can register online! yourself a page, look us up in the groups • Members, please update your profiles in the online directory which is in the members- section and search for friends. only pages on our website. This directory is a valuable resource for members to contact each other to network or plan visits. Being a part of PAWMA’s vibrant, supportive and capable community of women is one of the most important benefits of membership. • Did you hear about the Sacramento Area Women’s Martial Arts Club? Or about Sacramento Trainings FEMA’s Bowl-A-Thon? How about World Taiji-Qigong Day, and Master Su Zifang’s Women martial artists in Sacramento cre- upcoming seminars in Olympia? If not, you are not subscribed to PAWMA’s Forum. ated a local group called Sacramento Area This is where you can post notices about upcoming events, pose questions, and when Women’s Martial Arts (SAWMA). The it’s time to finalize your travel plans to Camp, arrange carpools and shared shuttles. It’s all group meets the first Saturday of the month on the Members page. Check out the Forum and subscribe to find out what’s happen- to train. All belt levels are welcome with ing with other PAWMA members. This feature is accessible only to members, so you black belts taking turns teaching. If you’re won’t be spammed by every marketer looking for a martial arts audience. in town, the group would love to have • The past year’s issues of PAWMA News are now online, available only to members. We you join us. For more information, visit expect to add more back issues over time, as well as older photos and more archived mate- SAWMA’s Facebook page as well as its rial. Most will be accessible only to members. If you have not already done so, please com- website (www.sacwomenmartialarts.com). plete a short online survey asking if you’d like to continue to receive PAWMA News in the mail, or want it online only.

Donations for Raffle Prizes Needed

Like to shop? Like to make stuff? Like to win stuff? It is time to donate stuff you’d like to win to the Camp raffle! Proceeds fill the coffers of the scholarship fund which helps women and girls attend Camp who would otherwise have difficulty affording it. Donations also go to the Camp’s silent auction which helps fund PAWMA’s work. Pacific Association 4 of Women Martial Artists

Spirituality and Martial Arts

Continued from page 1

Here, I must pause and thank my teacher Jan Parker. Without her competent guid- When I was six years old, I felt helpless ance, the way would be difficult, if not impossible, to find. Through clear instruction and as the neighbor men held my sister upside consistent practice, more is revealed and I see that there is more to learn. The exciting thing down and made jokes about her under- is that now I don’t feel like I’m stumbling around in the dark. The path is well lit if only I’ll wear. I was stock still and fuming inside, follow it. I study the art of tai chi so that I will know the divine within myself. It is a pro- and have never forgotten the feeling. I was cess I expect to take the rest of my life. Namasté. 15 when I was repeatedly sexually harassed physically by the pharmacist I was working Sue Leary began her over 25 years of practice studying kung fu. She now practices tai chi and lives in Salt Lake for. I have not forgotten the mixed emo- City, UT. She was PAWMA’s Martial Artist of the Year in 2006. tions I felt from that experience. I now teach self-defense (to men, by Sandie Benevides women and children) and martial arts with self-defense included to women in the hope Martial arts includes spirituality in its physical and mental train- that they and their children will not have to ing, otherwise we are just raising soldiers and possible deviants. feel these helpless feelings. In terms of spirituality, my reference is not in regard to religion Martial arts training that includes but to general codes of conduct which include the methods in hitting others and being hit has forced which a person treats themselves and others. This means to not me to confront philosophical issues. In intentionally cause harm and to be responsible in every regard, Kajukenbo, we ask students starting at their meaning daily personal conduct and responsibility with my green belt tests if they have considered martial arts. whether they could maim or kill a person, Spirituality affects my training in the sense that the mar- and under what circumstances they think tial arts has become more than kicking and punching, and they would choose to do that. The answers I do my best to incorporate the tenets of martial arts into all aspects of my life. Teaching change and evolve, the higher the rank. The is another issue because as an instructor/teacher I do my best to be aware of the balance reason for the question is to make sure that that is required when teaching my students. For example, there are days when my students students have considered the reality of the could benefit from a hard, technical, cardio-intensive class and there are other times when techniques they are being taught and will the philosophical aspects of the martial arts are needed. When teaching, I do not make any use the skills responsibly. Green belt is the references to theology or spirituality because this can be offensive given the many diverse first of the advanced ranks. We teach that it is backgrounds. I simplify as much as possible in a method in which my students can apply never necessary to kill another. I came to that the martial arts lessons, whether mental or physical, to their personal lives. conclusion over time as my training evolved Spirituality has affected me in many aspects. I am more content and confident with and I saw that I had more options and could my daily decisions. I am able to enjoy more of life. I do not become easily affected, as I am think more clearly under pressure. able to let things go more easily. This has allowed me to seek help when I need it, as well as I think it is the chance to fight for our be humbled when I get out of line. lives in controlled situations (in tests or class) that shows us what our true colors Sandie Benevides has trained in martial arts for 40 years and has advanced ranks in Judo, Tae Kwon Do, are, allowing us to hone our compassion Kickboxing, Eclectic Martial Arts and Kobudo. She is now learning Modern Arnis, and attends and teaches at skills. For instance, I have been allowed to PAWMA Camps. get really angry in multiple attack situations and made a decision in the midst of by Michelle McVadon that anger not to hurt my partners. That’s very different than just making that deci- I have used the mental and physical discipline of my sion intellectually. training in the martial arts to grow into a way of being I think the first step toward spiritual- that I would describe as calm (steady as a rock inside), ity is the ability to self-reflect and then be confident (strong but flexible), and compassionate (hon- aware of how you affect others. I have real- est and straightforward). I think these are ways I was to ized through years of teaching that students begin with but they were not as developed or ingrained who resist reflecting on themselves are the as they are now after 25 years of training. ones who don’t realize their affect on oth- Continued on page 6 ➤ PAWMA News 5

32nd Annual Training Camp instructors and participants. Sunday night’s bazaar features camp participants selling Roots of Community, Seeds of Change unique items including jewelry, calligraphy and photography along with martial arts- Labor Day Weekend, September 4 - 7 related wares such as instructional DVDs, at Stampfer Center in Olympia, WA clothing and books. When the bazaar winds down, it’s time to dance. Take a look at the Women and girls from all martial arts styles and skill levels are welcome to PAWMA’s facility at www.campschechter.org/facility- annual training camp. This year’s theme, “Roots of Community, Seeds of Change,” refers to tourALT.html. the roots of our martial arts and our community. A strong martial arts foundation roots us Getting to Camp in our bodies and to the ground, making us strong and capable. Our training roots us to a sense of purpose which helps sustain our individual practices. As we work toward positive Stampfer Center is five miles off I-5, change in ourselves, the seed of knowledge develops, sprouts and grows to affect others about an hour’s drive south of Seattle- and our communities. Rooted in and nourished by our communities, we receive the sup- Tacoma International Airport and seven port needed to weather difficult times, including the tough economy we are now in. The miles from the Olympia Amtrak Station. purpose of PAWMA’s camp is to support a community of women martial artists to develop Shuttles from the airport and train station strong roots that nourish and anchor its members so they can develop seeds that grow to will be available. make a better world. Make Camp Part of a Something for Everyone Great Vacation Getaway PAWMA is committed to providing a safe and supportive training environment for Nearby Olympic and Mt. Rainier women and girls of all ages, backgrounds and experiences. Beginning students enjoy learn- National Parks feature spectacular locations ing from more experienced practitioners who generously share their knowledge. Advanced for hiking, mountain biking, and camp- students can become reinvigorated by taking classes from masters and training, sparring or ing. Olympia, Washington’s state capitol, is pushing hands with peers. Martial arts teachers and school owners have ample opportuni- just a short drive from camp and features a ties to network. waterfront with a bustling farmers market, small shops and galleries, historical sites, Instructors and Styles restaurants, and a local coffee roaster, micro- Master instructors from North America and beyond teach a wide range of hard and breweries and wineries. soft martial arts styles including Aikido, Cuong Nhu, Judo, Jujitsu, Kajukenbo, Kung Fu, Poekoelan, Karate, Self-Defense, Tae Kwon Do, and Tai Chi. Applications for instructors are Great Value being accepted until April 1. Those interested in teaching but find that date has passed and You won’t find a less expensive four- those with specialized skills to share can contact the Teacher Selection Committee for other day, all-inclusive vacation. And in addition, options or opportunities in the future. For more information, visit www.pawma.org or you get 10 training sessions with world- send email to [email protected]. class instructors! Registration fees include all training, accommodations, a camp t-shirt, Train, Relax and Have Fun food and fun. Register before June 15 to This year’s camp is at Stampfer Center, a beautifully wooded, serene site with grassy take advantage of early registration rates. training areas. Imagine breathing in fresh morning air looking out at the mist rising from Scholarships are available. Information and the lake. Or relax with a massage by a skilled massage therapist after a hard day’s training. online registration is at www.pawma.org on Evening activities include a demonstration that celebrates the talents and diversity of the the Camp and Events page.

Camp Logo © Brooke Miller Pacific Association 6 of Women Martial Artists

Warrior Woman Spirituality and Martial Arts by Michelle Pleasant Continued from page 4 Warrior woman, A brave heart to take on yourself. ers. It is rewarding to see this resistance The slipperiest trickster opponent. change as they train, face their fears, and And the only one who can truly liberate you. become willing to feel their emotions and Every move a mirror, a clue deal with them in useful ways. To find the key to the kingdom Beyond self-reflection, the martial arts And unlock the Great Mystery of the self. has led me to meditation, breath and energy Spirits forged from sweat and tears. work. These practices open the door to see- Minds sharpened with every blow. ing that we are all one and the same, and The desire for self mastery and inner peace that we likely understand only a fraction of Drives us forever forward on this path the world we see and feel. On our quest for the unattainable. Chi exercises are one method I use to Warrior woman, teach students to feel themselves and oth- Be true to yourself. ers from a different angle than vision or Never sway your warrior gaze touch. Since it takes a lot of practice to feel From what you know is true. one’s chi, the exercises are also a lesson in Never let others who don’t understand our creed patience and perseverance. It is also a time Break your devotion with their ignorance. to slow down, to feel and be aware of your This path is not for everyone. breath, body and mind. Bound by our commitment to conquer our inner demons These experiences are an important With gratitude and grace, aspect of martial arts training but it took We honor our sisters who blazed the trail for us me a long time to feel confident in present- And impart the empowerment of all oppressed people. ing these exercises. I had to evolve my own Warrior woman, understanding to a more advanced place Thank you for showing us the possibilities, before I could successfully teach them. My For your humility and teachings. students always ask for more of it. Thank you for helping us see past our own limitations. Thank you for the encouragement to keep moving forward Michelle McVadon, with 25 years of training, is a 5th When we want to quit, degree Black Belt in Kajukenbo, a 3rd degree Black Belt in Aikido, and head instructor at Seven Star And for being stern when needed. Women’s Kung Fu (www.7starwomenskungfu.org) in I move on in the vain hope Seattle, WA. She was PAWMA’s Martial Artist of the To pass on your wisdom and give others Year in 2003. The courage you have given me To master the labyrinth of my self. And in some small way make it worth All the time and energy you put in to me. This warrior woman, Is boundlessly grateful.

Dedicated to all of my teachers, colleagues and future students, and to all who dare to seek the truth that they are worth their weight in gold and have their own uniqueness to share with the world.

Michelle Pleasant has a 3rd degree Black Belt in Kajukenbo. During her 17 years of martial arts practice, she has also trained for four years in Aikido, Chen style Tai Chi, and Shaolin Kung Fu. She was an instructor at Seven Star Women’s Kung Fu in Seattle, WA, and taught briefly at Lake Washington Technical College and Emerald City Aikido where she taught children. Michelle is excited to begin taking on her own students. She will empha- size eclecticism and spiritual presence, and looks forward to the fruit and challenges of this new path. Continued on page 8 ➤ PAWMA News 7

The next lesson was to just keep going. Internal Arts Without Borders Don’t stop to freak out. Don’t become motionless, stagnant or double-weighted. Go through the unknown with confidence, with ‘omni-poise.’ Be calm and pleasant. by Karin Collins Don’t expend more energy than necessary. Be efficient and don’t crowd other people’s space. Using these principles of my practice, On March 28, I finished a three month I got only greetings and smiles from the Yang Style Taijiquan Intensive in San border patrol as I crossed the border. Miguel de Allende, Mexico, taught by Sam Masich. I left home in Seattle on Over the Border December 22 in the worst snowstorm There are contradictions and boundar- I’ve personally seen there, to drive ies of all kinds here in Mexico — rich and over 3,500 miles, just me and my dog. poor, suffering and wealth, beauty and ugli- Throughout it all (the stress, the planning, ness. It is hard-core training in and of itself the risks, the driving, the naysayers), I’ve to be here and take it all in. had to keep practicing. That doesn’t mean The ‘real’ training in class was even only my Taiji forms, it means also the Taiji more to handle, enjoy and survive with principles which are the real life lessons grace. Surprises came every day. I was that training in my internal art is all about. required to tear down the boundaries to my Before the Border Taiji and cross over into the unknown to make progress as a student and teacher in I was (and still am) thrilled with this opportunity and experience. The moment I heard this art. about the Intensive, a series of events were set into motion that gave me the opportunity to I am still, daily, reflecting on lessons change my life so that I could attend. So I changed my life, sometimes not so willingly. Being from the first week. Every week, every day, able to change, accept it and transform with it, are aspects of my art. each hour had its lessons. One big eye-roller I spent almost a year preparing. I trained hard, efficiently and with spirit, and worked to came when, while practicing push hands, understand the principles of my art. Then there was the preparation required to live in another Sam reprimanded me. “Don’t over-reach country, have my home cared for, and keep my students in their classes and engaged in the to ‘support,’ or you’ll wind up resenting it. process. There were those who said that Mexico is not a good place to go (too much violence Be comfortable.” My inside voice replied, and corruption), that it is too unsafe for a woman to travel alone, that it wasn’t the right career “Ain’t that the truth! Geez, he can feel that! choice, that I would lose students, lose traction — too, too, loss, risk, unknown. “Ok,” I told Agh.” Good teachers are scary that way. myself, “calm down, relax and breathe. Don’t anticipate. Practice presence, be here now with I continue to learn about walking into mind, heart and body all connected and receptive.” Because I never questioned that attending the unknown with faith in my training and this Intensive was the right thing to do, it was just a matter of crossing these boundaries. that things will work out. I have a lifetime At the Border to learn that my Taiji, my experiences and my life do not need a border. I can cross The border’s warnings, red tape and militia with high-powered rifles brought trepida- any boundary I choose by using the prin- tion, I admit. I felt more fear around loss, risk, and the unknown. A principle in my practice is ciples of practice I learn and embody in my “Invest in Loss.” Ok, I thought, here I go. I can handle this. I don’t speak much Spanish, but internal art. It’s always nice to have your my art teaches me to assess, be aware, see the truth and avoid danger. I can move quietly and dog and ‘tai chi sports equipment,’ too! quickly through place and circumstance. It was still frightening, but if I am honest about that, then I believe the right path will become apparent. Karin Collins teaches Taijiquan and Qigong in The night before crossing the border, my friend in San Miguel got a nervous phone call Seattle, WA (www.karincollins.com, karin@karincol- from me. “I don’t know, Bobby. Are you sure that ‘Tai Chi Sports Equipment’ is really going to lins.com). Classes will resume in April upon her return be an okay term for the sabres, swords and spears I have?” He replied in his cool, jazz musician, from intensive training in Taiji forms, push hands and American-resident-of-Mexico-for-over-30-years gravelly voice, “Don’t worry, baby. You don’t Qigong described above. Many enjoyed the classes she fit the profile.” taught at last year’s PAWMA Camp. Pacific Association 8 of Women Martial Artists

Spirituality and Martial Arts

by Sheila Haddad moment. And as these moments change, the real training is to keep up with those The very first thought I had about spirituality in martial changes within our practice. arts is that no matter what type of day I had, most especially My practices (the forms and shapes, if I had a frustrating or somehow challenging day, I know I the challenges and joys) have been with need a perspective shift. I also know that the moment I step me through very difficult times — physi- onto the mat, whether to train or teach, the shift occurs. It’s cally, emotionally, mentally. Two years ago, instantaneous. All the thoughts and stresses of life melt away. an auto-immune condition struck me I am in the present moment and remain so for the duration down. I could not move for months. I was of the training. living the biggest fear of my life. “If I can’t It is being in that moment that allows me the respite move, teach, practice, what will I do, who and freedom from my own mind, my mind which creates will I be?” the thoughts that bring on the worries or ruminations. Many times during the course of I dug deep and found another layer training, through movement or connection with my partner, I discover another way I can of what my arts had been teaching me all solve a problem outside of training. Usually the fun I have training and moving about in along. The movements are something, but the present is enough to reset my thoughts, my moods and maybe my brain chemicals. I nothing compared to what they point to: come away more positive. courage, tenacity, the belief in oneself and the knowledge that life will continue in Sheila Haddad has trained for 20 years and has a Shihan rank in Taijutsu/Ninjutsu and Jujutsu, among other some way. Somewhere I found that I could advanced ranks. She teaches self-defense internationally and now lives in Germany. still move something, even if it was simply to think about a movement, even if it was by Kim Ivy crawling to the bathroom. Now that I am fully recovered (thanks to Taiji and Qigong), My practices have always been spiritually motivated. I look back and am grateful for the chance When I began, I felt very disconnected from my life and to be stripped bare, to be that afraid, and still from life in general. I was not sure what I was looking find my life force. for and by grace, I ended up in my first dojo. From my That initial feeling of disconnect from very first class, I felt catapulted into a sense of belonging life dissolved over the years. I understand — not just to the dojo, or as a student of a teacher, but to on some fundamental level that everything the larger flow of life. changes. This is a comfort to me. We all What has mattered to me in my training is pursu- know that even the current difficult times ing and deepening that initial feeling, that of being more are a metaphor for the natural ebbs and deeply connected to myself and to the world around me. flows of all life. These times will change, too I think this is a very different approach to learning than and change again. Our true power is that one that is motivated by gaining rank, learning more we can be steady in the midst of it and be forms, or winning competitions. I am fortunate to have forces of optimism. teachers who understand this. We can practice and teach courage, to As I began teaching I stumbled over how to convey this truth in my own practice be “Eight times down and nine times up.” I to my students. Many of my early students were chronically ill or at the end of their lives am grateful to be with others who under- dying of cancer or Parkinson’s disease. They did not care if they did “Grasping Sparrows stand this, to stay steady myself in the midst Tail” with a perfect hip track or what its martial meaning was. They were looking for of it, and to smile, be happy and appreciative methods of embodied connection, even through pain and impending death. They were of every day I live. looking to touch and taste flow, to breathe-in breathe-out the movement, to be connected to something at once historic and eternal. Kim Ivy, with over 30 years of martial arts practice, has As my own personal practice and my teaching matured, I of course trained for and black belts in Judo and Aikido, and is a 20th genera- assisted students to discover correct technique and perfection of form. But by the grace tion Disciple in Chen style Taijiquan. She founded and teaches at Embrace The Moon Taijiquan and Qigong of these early students and of my own life, I understand that perfection is not solely the (www.embracethemoon.com) in Seattle, WA. technique or form. It is also the intimate and real relationship of your practice to any given PAWMA News 9

Spirituality and Martial Arts

Continued from page 8 by Mamie Chow

Martial arts has helped me connect to my body and spirit. Before, I was much more in my spiritual beliefs to my training has helped head and out of balance (and in a lot more pain). I’m finally learning to enjoy being in my me grow as a martial artist and a human body and feeling safe. As a result, my spirit is a lot brighter. being. In the dojo, I can find my ground, but it took a long time to cultivate that ability. As a As a teacher, I have a greater aware- new teacher, this is one of the hardest lessons for me to convey to students. I don’t want to ness of what people go through, particularly say, “It might take another five years,” but I also don’t want to make false promises by saying women, when they confront obstacles that this process is quick. I guess I’m learning to be a lot more ‘quiet’ in my teaching, trust- that impede their success. It is often, if not ing that people will learn what they need to learn. The best I can do is bring my full mind, always, symbolic of the obstacles we face in body and spirit to each class, and of course, have fun. our daily lives. Because of my own journey, Martial arts has changed my life in pretty much every way. I walk differently. I give I have developed greater sensitivity when myself permission to ‘feel out’ a person before I decide if I’m going to ‘be nice.’ I laugh giving feedback and the ability to say things and speak from my belly. Ironically, a ‘masculine sport’ has allowed me to cultivate my in a multitude of ways to increase my effec- own brand of femininity (jock femme pride, all the way!). I use my grounding and relax- tiveness as an instructor. ation skills in my job constantly. Joy now comes from a very deep, old source much big- How I walk through the world has ger than me. changed dramatically, particularly from the inside. Because of my personal his- Mamie Chow is a black belt in Tae Kwon Do with 10 years of training. She teaches self-defense and trains in tory, I used to be very defensive, angry, and Oakland, CA. argumentative. My martial arts training has given me much greater confidence, by Michelle Pleasant and because of this confidence, I don’t feel the (sometimes desperate) need to defend Martial arts training gives us the opportunity to myself. This freedom gives me the chance physically manifest what we believe in spiritually. It to relax and let life and love into my world. provides the training ground to bring it out into the My entire outlook on life has changed, and world. The gift our training partners give us is the continues to evolve in ways I have never practice of integrating our mind-body-spirit con- imagined were possible. nection to help us along the way so that we may be When we’ve been beaten, berated and better in our daily lives. I infuse and approach not just my training and training partners, abused mentally, physically, and/or spiritu- but everyone I meet and everything I do with heart-felt gratitude for this gift. Once I real- ally, we feel the need to cling to what little ized that there truly was no separation between ‘me’ and the ‘other,’ harm to others became power we feel we still have. Sometimes we inseparably harm to myself. It became impossible to hate and the practice of compassion take power from others to fill our own need takes on new meaning. To think and believe this is not enough. We must dedicate ourselves for a sense of control in our lives. Martial to living it as well. arts can give us back that power we thought If there is a particular facet of spiritual growth being worked on, say acceptance, there was taken from us and allow us to see that it are numerous opportunities to practice it while training. There is acceptance for yourself was never gone. And to see that it is indeed and where you are at that day, and for your colleagues that may be struggling or unaware of ours to give away, or not, as we choose. what they’re putting out or how they are affecting those around them. By mindfully enter- ing class with the intent of practicing acceptance, everyone benefits. You benefit because you Michelle Pleasant, with 17 years of martial arts are consciously manifesting your spirituality, your training partners benefit from your accep- practice, has a 3rd degree Black Belt in Kajukenbo tance of them, and your act of acceptance could change their whole outlook. Every person and also trains in Aikido, Tai Chi, and kung fu. in the room benefits from the vibe you put off. She lives and trains in Seattle, WA, where she is One profound way that spirituality has affected my training has been the inseparable now taking students. parallels between physical self-mastery and spiritual development. For me, I realized that until I took on the challenge of mastering my inner dialogue, rolling up my sleeves to dig in and find out about this human being called Michelle Pleasant, I could only progress so far as a martial artist. Why do certain people push my buttons and others not? Applying my Pacific Association 10 of Women Martial Artists

Ask Sifu Dan Tien Eating Crabs by the

Dear Sifu Dan Tien, China Sea Years ago, I studied at a school for seven years, then had to move to another state. The or Grandmaster Wen Mei Yu style I practiced didn’t have other schools that taught it or a close variant. In my new city, f there were many martial arts schools. I visited some of them but found that I had devel- by Janet E. Aalfs, 2008 oped opinions about techniques, teaching styles, and school dynamics, etc., that made it difficult for me to want to join. But after many years, I finally settled on a new school. Editor’s Note: Janet Aalfs traveled to China last year The problem is that I recently had to move again. In my new location, I am faced with Grandmaster Wen Mei Yu, who hadn’t returned to her home in Shanghai for several years. Janet has studied with even fewer options. I can intellectualize the concepts of emptying my cup, hav- Taiji and Qigong with Grandmaster Yu for 16 years. ing an open mind and being patient, but I am having a hard time fully embracing them. I sometimes think that doing something very different would be easier. What are your thoughts on having to embrace another new school and style? The number one sister has returned, ginger sweet Signed, crabs big as hands Here I Go Again tied up with reeds. Perfectly eaten, she chimes, and shows me Dear Here I Go, the empty claw. Cracked

I trained in the martial arts for over 10 years before I met my Teacher. Just about every- between teeth spat thing I thought I knew was challenged. A fire was set under me and my art went up on the table, shells in flames. The only thing left standing at that time was my joy and love of the arts. Everything else it seemed, had burned to the ground. It was time for me to look at it all in mounds grow again and see how to rebuild from the ground up. I started fresh on a wide path. Since then, many sparks have been ignited and each time I had to take a closer look by every bowl. The deafening at what I knew. I needed to ask myself constantly, “Why am I doing this?” But every time crunch inspires me my art goes up in flames (and it does with any kind of change), I find that my martial arts like ancient music to join foundation grows stronger. I am able to look at my art with fresh eyes on a deeper path. It sounds like it is your time to “burn it down” again (I know, again) and see what is with the force left standing, what kind of foundation you have to build upon. of my savage jaw, During your practice, look for ways to open those beginners eyes again. How can and the sucking strength you look at your study from the ground up? How can you look deeper and wider at your art and practice? With an open heart and mind, can I be willing to let it all go? We often let our teachers, schools and classmates set our pace. It sounds like it is now your turn, not of a newborn, this feast theirs, to find the match that will spark your study. of the broken- During times of change we all have to watch our egos. Ask yourself again, “Why are hearted traveler relishing home. you in the martial arts?” Is it for the community, the workout, the style, the next belt level? Be as honest as you can. Your answers may make this transition easier. Janet Aalfs is a 7th degree Black Belt in Shuri-ryu Having said all that, don’t forget your PAWMA sisters! We are around to support you Okinawan Karate, a 5th degree Black Belt in Modern in every way. Together, we grow in the martial arts, but it is from your solo practice that Arnis, an instructor with Jian Mei Internal Martial Arts, and since 1982, is Head Instructor and Director you will find the most profound learning. of Valley Women’s Martial Arts: Institute for Healing and Violence Prevention Strategies (www.vwma.org) Safe Journey, in Easthampton, MA. She is active with the National Sifu Dan Tien Women’s Martial Arts Federation (NWMAF) and has taught at PAWMA Camp. Janet was the Poet Laureate of Northampton, MA, 2003 to 2005, and has written several collections of poetry. PAWMA News 11

School Profile Tuyê’t Tan Dojo – Cuong Nhu 3398 Adeline Street, Berkeley, CA www.karateberkeley.com by Allyson Appen

A small but enthusiastic group attitude. She also stresses that classes should of martial artists train with be really fun. She served as president of the Sensei Amy Weiner and Master Cuong Nhu board of directors and was a Allyson Appen at Tuyê’t Tan regional representative for years. Selected Dojo in Berkeley, CA. We prac- as PAWMA’s “Martial Artist of the Year” tice Cuong Nhu, which means in 2000 following a term as its president, “hard/soft” in Vietnamese and Allyson also served in various other roles is a blend of Shotokan karate, on its board of directors. Wing Chun, Vovinam, Aikido, Amy Weiner is a 4th degree Black Belt Judo, Taiji, and boxing. In this in Cuong Nhu and a 2nd degree Black eclectic martial art, students Belt in Aikido. She has been training in the learn basic techniques and self- martial arts for 24 years. She was president defense, practice forms, grapple, of PAWMA from 1987 to 1989, and served spar, break boards, and train on the board of directors for Cuong Nhu. with various weapons. Amy’s primary goal in training is reflected Grandmaster Ngo Dong in the first of the Cuong Nhu code of eth- Allyson and Amy (third and fourth from left) pose with the other founded Cuong Nhu Oriental ics: Cuong Nhu students should strive to instructors at Tuyêt Tan Dojo. Martial Arts in 1965 in Hue, improve themselves and their abilities in Vietnam. To build a strong the martial arts in order to serve the people. moral and spiritual foundation for his style, Grandmaster Dong interjected his personal The Bay Area is blessed with several philosophy of self-improvement, community service, and love and respect for others. In Cuong Nhu schools led by PAWMA Vietnam, Cuong Nhu was more than just another form of martial art. It provided an members. In Emeryville, Hoa Sen Dojo’s ideological touchstone for its students, young people who had grown up in a sadly dis- (www.skillsforsafeliving.com) head instruc- jointed, war-torn society that was hard-pressed to meet their spiritual needs. Grandmaster tor is Sensei Terri Giamartino, one of Dong taught martial art techniques to help his students build themselves up physically, PAWMA’s founding mothers. Redwood improve themselves, and personally pursue goals and serve society. Today, his son Quynh Dojo (www.redwood-dojo.com) in leads the style along with guidance and support from the rest of his family. Oakland is led by Sensei Didi Goodman. Both Terri and Didi have taken to heart Integrating Philosophy with Techniques Cuong Nhu’s philosophy of service by There are two types of philosophy taught in classes. leading PAWMA as its president. Also in • General philosophy: This deals with overall personal development such as honesty, high Berkeley is Rohai Dojo (www.rohaidojo. moral character, self-discipline, humility, patience, and respect for others and self. com) which has many PAWMA members • Martial arts philosophy: This includes how to judge a situation, when to fight, when and is led by Master John Burns. not to fight, how to fight, where to hit, with what to hit, with what kind of weapons to defend, what to do against multiple assailants, and many other points of strategy. Editor’s Note: We’d like to hear about your school! Please describe what makes your school special. Instructors Include photos, and in 600 words, its history, teacher’s Allyson Appen is a 6th degree Black Belt with over 28 years training in Cuong Nhu. background, philosophy, and events and email it to [email protected] or mail to P.O. Box 1153, Complementing her Cuong Nhu expertise with six years of Aikido and three years of Olympia, WA. The membership thanks you! Judo, she is now concentrating on developing her skills in internal arts like Taiji. Allyson stresses alignment and technique over strength, and believes in the power of a positive Pacific Association PAWMA 12 of Women Martial Artists P.O. Box 23157 PAWMA News Seattle, WA 98102 PAWMA News Published by the Change Service Requested Pacific Association of Women Martial Artists

PAWMA is a non-profit organization dedicated to uniting and empowering a diverse community of women and girls in the martial arts. Editor:...... Debbie Leung Design & Layout: ...... Jan Parker Contributors: ...... Janet Aalfs, Allyson Appen, Sandie Benevides, Mamie Chow, Karin Collins, Sheila Haddad, Kim Ivy, Sue Leary, Michelle McVadon, Michelle Pleasant, Keldyn West

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Contents are protected under copyright law and may not be reproduced without permission from the author or PAWMA.

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