The Karate Way

by Renshi Warren Berto

     Traditional Okinawa Shorin Ryu Seibukan Karate-do is based on the precepts and principles of self-realization. Self-realization is the process of enlightenment. All great Masters throughout time have sought after and taught the concept of discovery or realization of self. Realization is not just understanding with the mind, or performing physically with the body, nor just feeling with the spirit. Self-realization is all three working together unifying mind, body, and spirit.

     These moments of awakening, or satori, in Seibukan Karate-do can only be achieved by doing the individual physical workout continuously. The Karate workout is the doorway to unification of mind, body, and spirit. First the body tires and the mind takes over. When mind becomes exhausted, spirit takes over. This process is unique to each individual. As it is with the realization of self, so it is with physical practice of Seibukan Karate-do. The mind is occupied with understanding the philosophy of Seibukan Karate-Do. The spirit is called on again and again when the mind cannot understand and the body can not perform.
Self-realization is a continuous process. With self development, the student integrates the unification of mind, body, and spirit to progress along the path.

     The practice changes as we age but the process continues to uncover never ending layers of self. Continued practice leads to clarity of self. Clarity of self leads to understanding others. Understanding others leads to holding all life precious. Holding life precious leads to kindness and compassion. This leads to living in the moment. Living in the moment with kindness and compassion enables one to hear the yearnings of the heart. Hearing and following the one, still voice leads to peace of mind and contentment. Allowing this clarity of purpose encourages one to follow their bliss. This is the middle way. This is living the Karate Way.