Last thought for 2011.

“The cause of all our troubles is self and separateness and this vanishes as soon as Love and the great knowledge of Unity become part of our natures.”  
-Dr Edward Bach  

End of 2011(o^^o)！

How is everyone's end of the year cleaning coming along?

We cleaned Honbu and the Shrine yesterday and today all of us went to Gokokuji Temple where mother and Sosai is resting(o^^o)

I really want to thank each of you and thank you so much for supporting us!

Here are some picture's from the temple....

We found this cute flag of...... Aruba? Let us know where this is from! Whoever this was, we really appreciate your visit to the Oyama grave. 

This is the MAIN TEMPLE where the Dalai Lama prayed in.... is it not amazing to think Sosai and mother is resting in the temple where HIS HOLINESS visits?! 

Flag of Japan. 

The entrance of the Gokokuji Temple- By the way this is the back of my son- I still can't believe the boy I referred to as my "pea" is growing so much~~~!

Dentist.

My father was meticulous about his teeth cleaning. Brushing, flossing and monthly check up was norm for him, even ducking between his busy schedule.

He always had time for breakfast and most dinners with family, morning Uchideshi chorei (朝、礼) literally translates to morning / courtesy
and always, always brushing his teeth thoroughly after each meal.

There is a ritual my yoga teacher made us all do call Mauna. It means cleansing for a short period of time, like not speaking. This particular one I practiced a lot was to "clear the mouth". Aside from the removing the food debris, gossiping really tarnishes your mind, starting from the mouth.

When yoga practice commences- all students have washed their hands, feet and their mouths. If possible bathing is preferred. But this shows the importance of cleansing certain areas more so than others.... (o^^o)


I was always amazed by how mindful and dedicated he was to even the
most seemingly ordinary things. I guess as the saying goes, cleanliness is godliness (o^^o).

What is Shoshin?

Helloo~

So I was asked what my thoughts are on the meaning of the word
Shoshin" is. The word itself, 初心 is literally translated to "Beginning" and "Heart".

I have heard people ramble on about humility and being humble etc... etc... but I always feel the heart of Shoshin, Beginner, is that spark you feel in your being. That little twinkle of curiosity and the knowing of not-knowing is what makes us feel like beginners. Of course this leads to being humble- understanding with our heart that we are just a beginner is humbling!

Sosai always had that beginners curiosity and zeal to learn and deepened whatever he set his  mind to. Which made him a student forever. And how glorious it that? To be a teacher as well as a student (^^)/.

Merry Christmas....!

Wishing you all a very wonderful and joyous festive season...... (^^)


"Nothing on earth can overcome an absolutely non-resistant person." - Florence Scovel Shinn

In the heart of all beings, O Arjuna, resides the Lord, whirling all of them by his Maya as if they were mounted upon a machine. Take refuge in him alone with all your heart, O Arjuna, by His grace you shall attain supreme peace and eternal abode.

- Bhagavad Gita 18.61


Om Shanti, shanti, shanti....

Happy Holidays!

Yeees...! It is that time of the year- time for long awaited presents and of course... time for reflecting back on 2011 and making resolution for 2012!

2011 's been quite a crazy year for Japan. The 3/11 was a wake up call for the whole nation.

 Suzuki too he has been quite swamped with teaching new classes etc... and I have been at new work place which was a great, great learning experience. So grateful that they had a spot for me to fill in. (^^; I ain't no collegiate on law to begin with. It is preparing me for all the basis I need to move forward in Kyokushin. Saying this, 3/11 refocused what I was here to do for Sosai. The people who came forward to help Honbu were truly magical- even if Tokyo was okay, their level of concern and willingness to step up really touched us.

Some plans detoured and tanked (all for good reasons) while others popped up and offered themselves. All in all, I was happy with everything. I made new friends from here and overseas as well - maybe some frenemies too.... hahaha....

My mantra for the month is....

"I came here to be me." Robert Holden.

I wish everyone a great Holiday Season!

My Beautiful Trip to Poland.... (^^)

I think flying disturbs my prana or something- I could not seem to function (barely) with my usual rhythm... I wanted to share my trip to Poland blog as soon as I got back! So here it is....

I was first blown away by how beautiful the city of Warsaw was. I think the landscape plus the night fall vision played some magic to my eyes- I started reminisce the movie "The Pianist"!!! So my mind was off to wonderland.

The hotel I stayed in had the best pillows!!!  I know that kind of sounds funny but I slept so well because the pillows were just heaven!

The next day, a lovely young lady M, we will call her- took me to a Museum. I was not aware of the national holiday but it was Independence Day. I was so moved by what I saw and learned.

Unfortunately I lost my camera few weeks ago- (tears) so I took some picture's on my phone but it was not as inspiring to take them... (sigh).

The food was lovely too! I was warned by the ever cautious hubby of mine, that I will have difficult time finding vegetarian food. I found salad bars and Perogi? Pierogi? sorry I can't spell right... but that was another heavenly experience! I had it every day of my stay there.... lol. They made some without the meat and replaced it with mushrooms and cottage cheese (I think) . It was delicious!

From a work perspective, I had a strained meeting. But every person I have met so far from Poland is so lovely. I felt at ease. Even students from another group seems so nice and humble and sweet. Ha!

I must thank Sensei Tadeusz and Sensei Richard (plus the lovely Jacob san and Beatrice....!) for traveling 8 hours or so by car for the meeting!!! This trip I had to be in Warsaw for the job I have- so I could not move as freely as I would have liked. But thanks to them, they did not show any sign of fatigue or exasperation and went straight to work! Amazing!




Anyway, back to my rambling. In Tokyo and being a vegetarian, I don't really see like this, fully shaped chicken- (is that the correct term?) . So I had to take picture's when it was served at our Mr. Tomasz Boruc residence....! wwww


*The pictures below are posted in random orders.

 My heart melted with this little girl.... (^^)//

 I was just admiring the rows of fruit juices at a deli......

 Usually I stay away from sugars but this was a yummy ice cream sundae......

 Lovely salad with pesto dressing at the mall...... it was a great shopping mall.....

                                             Mother Mary......

 The plaque outside the museum......

     This is the chicken I was talking about!!! Courtesy of the Boruc Family.... (^^)

 The Polish IKOK.... and they are such great people who loves my father's legacy. I am so appreciative of their love for Kyokushin. I am truly inspired by them. From the left: Maciek, Sensei Tomasz, Horaitu Sensei is the ECC from Romania, beautiful Beatrice and Mr. Czepczak who came to Japan this fall, Sensei Richard, Jacob and Sensei Tadeusz.

                          The ticket from the museum I visited on the Independence Day....

              Hand made Tiramisu by the lovely Mrs. Agnes Czepczak...... it was so nice. ^^/
     

I actually left my yoga mat (and equivalent for leaving your dogi for me) with one of the Dojo Operator's because I am already planning to return to Poland~~~!

Hello P-p's!

Just wanted to share with you about my teeny encounter yesterday with a student of my father yesterday.
He commented on the situation in Europe (in particular) and it got me writing this blog... (^^)

At the moment we have a wonderful Kyokushin student in Romania as our Branch chief. Apparently there's Midori's group close by to his hometown. The peculiar thing that was told to me yesterday was that the group from Midori wears my father's Kyokushin kai marked gi.

It got me thinking, is this like having a LV logo on a Chanel bag? A bag is a bag- just as karate is karate.. but the naming and originality makes the delineation clear no?

I hear people mentioning here and there how much they respect Sosai,  "therefore" they opt to wear Kyokushin kai Gi. Which is fine- the great Andy Hug wore Kyokushinkai Gi to sleep for years (so I read somewhere... very inspirational!) But he did not wear it in front of Ishi Kancho no?

I think what I feel is that Kyokushin kai was a specific name Sosai chose to represent his karate on the Dogi, which is (and should be) exclusive for Kyokushinkaikan students.

It is easy to muddle the line for those benefitting from the muddling. It certainly is not for those working to keep the line clear and clean. Like Sosai had it clear.

A little rule.

" Re-examine all you have been told........... Dismiss what insults your soul"  ---- Walt Whitman.




People ask me how can I sit and listen to 20 different versions of one situation. 


Generally whatever instinctively feels .... not meshing well, I take a step back. NO matter how well something is presented to you,
if it does not ring well with our soul, it is not right for us. 


It is not good or bad- just not suitable for you. 


(^^) / 

Three Monkeys.... on rumors.

Oh my!

I got few emails asking me about this newsletter circulating from one of the groups in Australia! It is supposedly congratulating me on my "marriage" to a former student who we have not seen in years. The distributor of the newsletter is a nemesis of this former student- so I am a bit puzzled.

Please do not be misinformed.

Gossip is a wasteful way to use our voice. We are now at a time and age where one-click can spew out wrong information as a "fact".  It is crucial to be discriminating.

We have a wonderful family and I have been blessed to have a partner like Suzuki. We have been together for 15 years.  No need to estimate my age... lol... (^@^//

Please continue with the support ~~~~!

Travel and Immunity.

I have new found respect for people traveling from abroad- esp where long hours and transit is involved.  I am just amazed so many tournament fighters come! We are so blessed...

Now I am back home from Poland, my immunity is a bit funny from the travel...so I thought of sharing some tips for those who are coming over to Japan again next year... (^^)

1) Be religious about Vitamin C's from raw food and good supplements.
 Vitamin C boosts our immunity and a powerful antioxidants. It gets rid of flu and cold and prevents it from first place. They increase our antibodies and white blood cells.

Get Vitamin C from Camu camu berries, broccoli, strawberries, kiwi, goji berries to name a few.


2) Vitamin D intake from the sun....!

Do wear sunscreen but studies have shown people with low level of Vitamin D in the blood had greater risk of cold and flu. Or you can get them (like I do) from good quality supplements and from foods like sardines and tuna.

Get Vitamin D from Flaxseed oil if you are vegan.


3) Probiotic- the friendly bacteria.
We all need friends- on the inside as well as outside! 80% of our immune system resides in our tummy. Therefore we need to nurture healthy environment for the microorganism to flourish...

Can get them from Miso and kimchee, sauerkraut.


4) Sleep Please.

Snoozing is the most important of all. You cannot replenish yourself with derived sleep...


My next blog I will speak more about the visit to Poland. I fell in love with how pretty the city was....!

SIght Saver.

I think my eyes are getting dim as I celebrate more of my birth day.... ^^;

Just some tips to help with your eyesight. Gradual deterioration (of the eye sight)  is I guess part of living but the good news is it is preventable and in some cases treatable.

1) Have regular eye examination.
2) Watch your weight.
3) Wear sunglasses.
4) Stop SMOKING~!
5) Good diet for the eyes.

A breakdown on what I wrote above...


1) My sister who had blurred vision in her teens found out she had a rare retinal disorder- which she was able to prevent the progression to the max with effective treatment.

2) Being over weigh increases the risk of glaucoma and Age related macular degeneration (AMD). Over weight is related to diabetes as well- which can lead to diabetic retinopathy.

3)The UV rays are killer to your eyes. It damages your eyes so badly some studies have shown it increases the risk of cataracts and AMD.

4) Not only bad for lungs, mouth etc... smokers are likely to lose their sight twice as much more than non-smoker.

Mini- fasts can help your vision tremendously. Minerals such as zinc and selenium  found in nuts and seeds are helpful too!

Is it all necessary~~~?

I am swamped right now with by-laws, rules, regulations, constitution, agreements, contracts, etc- and I am wondering why do we need so much regulations to begin with? (NON Kyokushin related one's as well!)

Someone once said, "Why is it so hard to trust someone and I say why is it so hard to keep a promise?" I think I found this on Twitter, but ain't it true?

My passion is reading scriptures and yogic texts because that is also a form of guideline to me. Like the Dojo Kun from Sosai, it has the spirit of the writer in those sentences. But why the continual enforcement generally? Are we so inept at controlling our seven deadly sins that we need police, detectives, surveillance camera etc...

Then again, we are all here to burn our karmic residue hopefully in this lifetime--- perhaps we are all in need to be regulated! (The great news is, once we see it- we can handle it.... no?)

In Perspective.

Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid trap of thinking you have something to lose.- Steve Jobs

It is peaceful here in Tokyo and Honbu- like storm had finally passed after the memorial tournament.
(^^)

Excuse me for the MIA but I have been so busy - ! I will be back here again very soon~~~!

Computer mind and Yoga....

Remembering that I'll be dead soon is the most important tool I've ever encountered to help me make the big choices in life. Because almost everything — all external expectations, all pride, all fear of embarrassment or failure — these things just fall away in the face of death, leaving only what is truly important. Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. You are already naked. There is no reason not to follow your heart. — Steve Jobs, speaking at Stanford University's commencement, June 2005 

Fun Tournament~

It is that time of the year where all our friends and family gather to participate in the memorial cup which is solely dedicated to our Sosai, Masutatsu Oyama.

             President Miyake and my father's picture..... (^^) From Mas Oyama Memorial Cup.

                                           A snap from the training.... sorry about the blur.

 Suzuki Kancho with Flemming Shihan from Denmark.

 My father.... such aura=! This is a Kyokushin guideline booklet from 1974.

I love this time of the year- because it is where I can actually see the wonderful students! A name tag from the Polish team.

Truth of Training....

My father said to me once, "I have never met a strong person who needs to do karate. Including myself. "

I salute to his honesty. This self realization is perhaps what did not deter him from his pristine vision.

What is NON Uchideshi?

Hi everyone,

It is just a week away for our annual tournament and we are furiously preparing to welcome all the participants.

Meanwhile, I'd been asked what Uchideshi was when my father was alive and what it was like so here are some stories I want to share with you all.

An Uchideshi (内弟子　内〜inside/ internal/ interior/within 。弟 younger brother/  pupil/ junior/  子　child/off spring. All three characters put as one word means a disciple. ) is someone who takes an oath to devote their life to Sosai's Kyokushin Karate. It was quite militant (as my Dad was in the military) and very regimented.

This life starts as soon the Uchideshi takes the Entrance Oath that he will dedicate solely to Kyokushin training living in the dorm (若獅子寮 Young Lion Dormitory)
and finish the three years to continue on as Mas Oyama's Kyokushin Karate-ka.

My father always, always told my mother how much he adored Uchideshi's. He said, "やっぱり弟子は弟子でも、内弟子はかわいいよ。" meaning he loved all his students but adored the uchideshi's.

 I 've heard this too... (^^) Although he did add he adored me more when I was listening. (^^* LOL.

I understand this. I feel the same with Guruji. That connection felt is effortless because there is absolutely no force. And every single one of the Uchideshi's who did finish the program, did so for Sosai.

Nic Pettas who is in the last graduating class while Sosai was alive said, "I wanted to do my best for Sosai."

I write this blog because 1) In the recent months few of the Uchideshi's returned to Honbu to help. 2) Comments and questions from other internet forums were brought to my attention.

There was a Uchideshi program right after my father passed under Mr.Matsui. I don't doubt the dedication but the essence is slightly different. I have seen them when I walked passed to go upstairs in Honbu (when Matsui san still occupied Honbu) but they were there to "help", not so much to serve any more.

Some misconceptions are arising that taking part in Uchideshi program started to equate actually being a Uchideshi.

Over the years, I was frequently asked about N.L, who did a bit over a year of the program but now claims otherwise. He was a nice fella.  However since his existence in Sosai's life is being blown out of reality by him, we are continually asked about his credentials.  Him being a branch chief of another group does not help his insecurities either. It seemed to have propelled him to add fancy colors to the truth.

N.L came from the US where he studied martial arts with my uncle. I am told he was a good student but his severe lack of self confidence was an issues. My uncle asked if he can take part in Uchideshi program to fix this. NL came to Japan and he was one of the three foreigners in the Young Lion Dorm at the time.

The first year he was in the Uchideshi I got the impression that he was so pure. My Dad said NL was really trying hard to work on himself. I was in Japan for summer break and I really got to know all the uchideshi's at the time since we were close in age.

The  following year (April) came and the Uchideshi's moved up a year. That summer I returned to Honbu, NL was gone.

I asked my father what happened. He just grunted and did not offer a reply.

My father hates quitters.

I asked NL's dormmates what happened. They all said it was too much for him. He ran away during the morning training.

Later that year, NL returned and tried to meet with my father. He came to the winter camp site but my father did not see him. He left a note which attempt to explain his abrupt departure.

In the note it said,"Due to the accident my teacher, I had to return to the US."

My father knew this was a lie- since my uncle had contacted my father to apologize for NL.  My uncle did fall ill around that time- but NL was using it as his "reason" for quitting, which understandably infuriated my uncle. I was told NL did not see my uncle for many years.

After the Kyokushin turmoil and break up ensued, his stories got colorful and a bit detached from really happened. In the beginning, no one really took notice of little adjustments here and there. So it now snowballed into a completely different story.

To this day my uncle says the greatest mistake he made was to get NL into Uchideshi program when he was not ready mentally and spiritually. It undeservingly added extra mileage to his ego/ resume and made his self-image unrealistic as well, he said.

And most people won't doubt when someone offers to impart their life experiences- like the title of being Mas Oyama's Uchideshi.

Some voiced NL's actions offensive to those who did finish Uchideshi and those who did serve Sosai to the last minute. And also to those who did receive special grants from Sosai to train certain amount of time with the Uchideshi's and finish the selected time frame. I agree with the sentiment completely.

Although I do sense his pained insecurities from not finishing what was committed. It wretches the soul to lie because it brings you further apart from your Self.

I am glad to have given this opportunity to write this. To the group he belongs to now, the officials do not know much about what transpired while NL was in Japan.

And it is not just NL who slightly fabricates their experiences. There are few, even one's calling themselves Kancho's- who hardly trained or blows their position under my father way out of proportion to get more "ducks in line." So having facts spoken out through our experiences are so crucial now.

Hopefully having stories set straight can relieve the anxiety for those who know the truth.  And the lie will not snowball into another monster if we are aware of all side of the story.

Bottom Line.

I have been asked by one of the groups, I won't give away too much since I got complaint from them, about the contents of my blog. They specifically asked me to "remove" anything that may jeopardize their integrity.

I asked him, what integrity? 

I said I have been working on various cases which will affect my kids life as well as my parent's life long work. 

So I said, "Stop telling lies about me and what happened, then I will stop telling the truth about you."

Simply put, this is my bottom line and it is MY blog. 

NON stealing.....!

One of the challenges we human race face every moment is our innate ability to cause harm, be dishonest, steal, be greedy and jealous. All which seems unavoidable! So, I wanted to share about Asteya (Sanskrit). 


Asteya means non-stealing, non-covetousness, even non-desirousness. The meaning is that this should cover all action, word and thought. This means you should direct your thought away from even the wish that what belongs to another person, should be yours. 


The complete practice of Budo (yoga) is a cultivation of this inner principle which the Buddha called  it the middle path, which we see as virtue and integrity. 
 So what is integrity? 


1. adherence to moral principles; honesty
2. the quality of being unimpaired; soundness
3. unity; wholeness


 Asteya non-stealing stands on the two firm legs of ahimsa, non- violence and satya, the truth. I particularly like the third (3) definition because striving for wholeness, you really cannot allow yourself to take something which you know you do not deserve. 


 Whatever comes into our possession should not involve any force, harm, dishonesty or manipulation. This is hard! Society trains us to be ambitious and usually not in a coy way. But if we have not earned the possession- whatever that maybe- we simply have not "earned" it. 


There is a wonderful phrase in Sanskrit that says "Idamnamam", which means "this is not mine". 


This is included in all types of offerings, ceremonies and rituals- like training and practicing too.  A sense of giving back what you "given" should correct any mental confusion over as to "what is mine". In reality, we are given temporary use of all these possessions we call "mine". By being aware of this and make an offering back to nature, back to the giver (Sosai)  will clear the desire and coveting of things. Due to the level of impurity within us, sometimes it is not clear.


But as the saying goes, "You can't build a church on stolen money." It all boils down to what you are intended on and what is motivating you! 

A traditional Breakfast....

This was my menu. I usually do not take any solid foods in the morning but this one was an exception!

Sosai had ham and eggs.... and large bowl of salad consisting of at least 9 different veggie's! ^@^/ 

I will try to recreate the menu one of these days. 

This was all vegan menu. From left to right: Burdock root n Lotus root lightly stir fried in soy sauce, cucumber and lotus root in tahini sauce, curried chick peas and potatoes, miso soup with radish, cucumber pickles and seasoned spinach. And yummy brown rice cooked in high-pressure pot!

Have a great day folks!!!

Nic' s Book.

Hello Everyone~ !

So Nic Pettas, one of the last graduating Uchideshi of my father- finally published his book here in Japan.

The English version is coming out soon?

I think this is great way to continue parampara- the continuation of the teacher's presence through teachings or "words".

After Sosai's passing, there has been quite few stories of people fabricating taking part of the Uchideshi program, so this is a great way to set the history straight.

Don't find fault. Find a remedy.- Henry Ford.

"A man is as only as good as the partner he chooses. " - Anonymous.

Having the right mindset for the job requires certain ability of self-evaluation. I see a lot of times the deal between people do not go through because they are too focused on the fault, not the remedy.

Having the right mindset requires the ability to look at yourself. And to take responsibility.

There is no point in speaking to people who cannot actually take responsibility especially when it is not even their place to make choices for other's that are potentially affected by it.

Ironically, those are the one's who jumps in to have their voice heard!!!

What is Bliss?

"Follow your bliss and the universe will open doors where there were only walls." - Joseph Campbell

The bottom line is, every decision I make I always have to enjoy making it. Even the hard, uncomfortable one's. I think I would have had brain aneurysm by now had I not learned to enjoy even the most vicious, painful, eye-opening event coming my way. (No, I am not a masochist).

All the while I struggled to get by in my earlier years, my yoga teacher always reminded me that, "All decisions come from a place of love or a place of fear- and always make sure you choose love."

Be determined about this~~~~!

Memorial Cup Preparation!

Hi Everyone!

So the annual Memorial Cup is coming up in September and we are all busy preparing now.

Some thoughts I wanted to share is on cattiness from other kyokushin people. I use small letter for Kyokushin instead of capital K, because they weren't my father's student but just happened to fall in line to teach or open some classes by fluke accident of fate. (yikes)  The fight is never up-front and is always behind the back- so how do we do it? By bringing them out to the surface so they are held responsible as much as possible.

It's funny because people ask, wow don't you ever get tired? But the more opposition I encounter, the more feeling of servitude soar in my heart! I get more energy to prove that whatever hardships my parents went through is not to enable them, but actually to bring deserving recognition to those who actually do deserve them from their devotion to Sosai and Kyokushin.

I feel we are doing the right thing and there are numerous projects. Difficulties and setbacks are a norm, and I started to learn to expect problems. Every and any experience gives you resiliency. Take the positive and don't give up! Focusing has brought Honbu to great places and change attitudes that should be changed.

Back from ROMANIA===

Sorry I thought the picture was uploaded properly but it wasn'T!! 


So here it is~!

Originally I had really close up picture of 4 people but for some reason I cannot upload them~~!

A.W.

Amy,

May you rest in Peace.....

Sometimes talent is misunderstood.....

Problems?

"It is not that I am smart- I just stay with problems longer." -Albert Einstein

I learned to love solving problems. It is one thing the past 17 years gave me- it is the ability to see problems as an inevitable. It is always, always around, always close by to remind us not to slack.

I wondered how Sosai did it during his time- running one of the greatest, if not the only, karate organization that went beyond borders and religion. I asked him one time, how did he do all this? And even while I asked the question, I wasn't even close to the degree of what he was doing! He said, "I spend 98% of my time thinking of good moves. Like in kumite too."

I think I only  do 45% for now, but it is increasing compare to where I started.... 17 years ago lol...

De-stressing.....

Hello ~ Sorry  guys for my MIA- missing in action..

I have been under tremendous stress.... actually under a tremendously awful schedule of work that is bringing on stress.... I am falling asleep in the bath tub instead of my bed from exhaustion! Thankfully I have not drowned in my tub.... though I can feel some maybe dreaming of that ....LOL...

Anyway, this article was sent from a friend- just sharing it with you all.

Hope you all enjoy it as much as I have and take something helpful for your life style!

"Everyone experiences stress at different times in their lives. Stress can bring on a host of issues such as anxiety, headaches, high blood pressure, heart problems, diabetes, skin conditions, asthma, arthritis, depression, and insomnia.

Although finding physical and emotional outlets for stress is crucial, diet can play a big role as well. During times of stress I notice different eating behaviors with my clients. There is the stressed personality that tends to overeat out of nervousness. They use food as a sense of comfort. Usually they don’t crave salads, vegetables, or something healthy. The “Feel Good” foods many times are high in sugar, fat, and carbohydrates. This is why it is not uncommon to see someone quickly gain 10 pounds when they are going through a difficult time. There is also the other extreme where a person feels too stressed to eat at all. This personality type may not have an appetite and gravitate more towards using stimulants like coffee and sugary drinks over eating normal servings of food. The high levels of stress can also rev up digestion and cause frequent bowel movements resulting in rapid weight loss.

When you are stressed, be aware of your blood sugar levels. It is important to eat several times throughout the day and not go hungry. Stress can also cause a surge in cortisol and adrenaline. Some of the best foods for regulating those stress hormones are fresh fish like tuna and salmon. Incorporate healthy fats such as olive oil, avocado, as well as pistachios, almonds, and walnuts. Make sure to include green leafy vegetables since they contain important minerals like iron and magnesium. B vitamins are important during stressful times and can be found in organic eggs, oatmeal, tofu, and tempeh.

Your immune system can also become weakened and increase your body's need for certain nutrients. Eating a healthy diet will help you stay energized, focused, and well rested during times of stress. If you are not mindful and eat junk food or frequently skip meals, you are more likely to perform poorly or get sick during stressful times.

Incorporating multivitamins and nutritional supplements can be helpful in replacing our nutrient stores that are depleted during stressful times. Vitamin C helps to boost the immune system and regulate cortisol levels. B vitamins are beneficial for nervousness and anxiety. Adaptogenic herbs such as rhodiola, ashwaganda, and ginseng help to regulate the body and bring it back to its normal function.

Keep up with regular exercise so your body has the opportunity to release all the unwanted energy. Showering before bed can be helpful too. It tends to wash off the stress from a long day to allow you to sleep better. Try to get in bed at a reasonable time so you give your body enough rest to recover. Most importantly, try not to give too much thought to your stress before sleeping. If there is nothing you can do about your situation, it’s best to do something that can be a good distraction like reading a book or meditating. If you wake up feeling refreshed, you may find that your stress will actually lessen the following day." Dr. Oz Garcia

"There is a tool we all have, one of such simplicity and purity, such minimalistic beauty that its power is often and easily overlooked. This tool doesn’t cost a thing, requires no complicated instruction, is available to everyone and can be accessed anytime and anywhere. It is, without a doubt, among the most effective antidotes to stress and a key component to wellbeing that we human beings possess. Let’s consider, for a moment, the power of breathing.

It sounds simplistic, doesn’t it? What’s so special about something we do every day, without thinking, completely automatically? Well, think for a minute about what it feels like when you don’t breathe. We forget to do that often—during a difficult exercise or physical exertion, during moments of stress or when we experience something scary, unpleasant or painful. It’s like our body pushes a giant pause button and everything grinds to a halt.

Not breathing properly equates to stopping or slowing down the flow of energy through our system. The body no longer receives the oxygen it needs to function properly, to eliminate toxins and mobilize the internal organs. The Chinese Daoist master Yu Wen once said ‘Energy being like water, stagnation leads to decay.’ In other words, if we stop the flow of energy and oxygen through our body, inevitably stagnation and illness ensue.

So what’s the best way to breathe to keep things moving, you ask? Let me just encourage you not to over-think this. It’s not complicated. It’s very simple, and that’s why people overlook it. I say just breathe. No fancy techniques, no right way to do it, no mistakes to make. Even the simplest mindful breathing helps get the energy flowing through your body again. If you want to explore the power of breathing further, investigate deep breathing techniques, which have been shown to help boost the immune system, reduce anxiety by recalibrating the oxygen/carbon dioxide ratio in your body, induce relaxation and reduce pain—all important elements in fighting chronic illness.

Be aware of the physical sensations when you’re, in fact, not breathing—the slight tightness in your head, the tension you’re holding in your body—recognize it, and then … make an effort to breathe, mindfully and continuously. It’s that easy and that essential. Breathing is a beautiful and pure way of bringing yourself back into the moment, to not only push the play button again, but to refocus your energy. Have you been breathing while you’ve been reading this? No? How about giving it a quick try? There, doesn’t that feel better in a simple and powerful way?" Oliver Bros.

Ukraine....

Just a quick yell to say THANKYOU to Mr. Ushakov in Ukraine for thinking of me.... (^^) This was one of the gifts from him during recent visit to the Ukraine.... 

Sorry it is side ways ^^; 

                                          It's a pearl mobile strap....! Very pretty.... !

As always, Suzuki Kancho really appreciated the enthusiasm and the professionalism of the Kyokushin practitioners there! Most had never traveled to Japan but they make a point of doing exactly in accordance to the Honbu way from long ago (thanks to Sosai's dedicated publishing of writings and tournament pamphlets....!) . Talent can get you only so far- there are many, many "talented" people but determination, dedication and just working hard the right way really is what seals it all together! Wow!

I am waiting anxiously for Suzuki to upload all the pictures~~~! Please check them out on Honbu website at mas-oyama.com.

Osu!

Om!

What is "stealing".

It not only pertains to material things~~~!



One with integrity (the yogi) literally embodies this "asteya" and as a result receives benefits from all sides wherever they go. Asteya has been included as a Yama in many yogic texts, foremost among them the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. Though no definition is given an outcome upon its establishment is offered;
  
     "Asteyapratishthayamsarvaratnopasthanam" (PYS II.37)~ Patanjali Yoga Sutra

     When the yogi has established (in him/herself) the principle of non-theft, all treasures attend upon him/her.

Taking a thing not given by its owner or to which one is not entitled, is "steya" or stealing. To forsake such a thing and not to have even a desire to possess it is "Asteya", according to Swami HariharanandaAranya.

How much of this can we incorporate in Kyokushin? I think wholly!

Never give.... up.

This just goes to show- never, ever, ever give up.

"If you are going through hell, keep going."
W.Churchill


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BewknNW2b8Y&feature=youtu.be

I can't stop crying! This is positive stamina- no matter what the adversity, he never gave in.

Vitamin C.

Hello~~!

Sorry for the MIA. 

I wanted to share with you this Vitamin C powder from Camu Camu berry. I swear by this now- it has given my and students energy=! Especially the season now in Japan, we are on the onset of rainy season which really screws with our health. 

I have taken other brands for vitamin C supplements but this is really special. It is a bit pricey but worth every cent and it is organic too. 

It is helping students out who is training for tournament if taken with MSM. 

Russian Newspaper!

What keeps me going in Kyokushin?

This is Mr. Alexander Anferov from Russia- one of our Branch chief's. 

It is hard work but also a blessing~ when I see how hard people work for Sosai's Kyokushin and Honbu I really feel great to be working with them.

Sorry this is going side-ways~~~!

Dare to Inspire!

Life is about taking chances, and the people with the most gifts have a responsibility to themselves and those they can inspire, to take those chances. You never know how many people you end up paving a path for.

You, my dear reader, are an incredibly gifted person, in many ways. All avenues must be explored. Always remember this and stay true to your goals and above all, to your perfect little face.

The world is waiting for you!

R.H.

Cat and a Turtle....

Sosai was quoted in one of his very early interviews, "Cats, have you tried fighting them? If a man is in a closed room with a cat you simply can't win!" He said he also watched how they move., take their stance in a challenge. (usually for a piece of fish I assume!) 

My cat is really cool. I learn a lot watching him. When there is something he does not understand or are not sure of, he sits silently and waits. lol.

Why LJ?

I went back to LiveJournal which is where I started to dish my thoughts etc- for a simple reason that the way LJ is designed more well-suited for my visual comfort.

I don't know why... lol.

I really am impressed with this Damascus Oil- t helped my skin irritation etc this allergy season.... 

Best People.

"After all is said than done, more is sand than done."~ Aesop

http://kuristinaoyama.livejournal.com/44582.html

My live journal.

Hello~

I decided going back to my LJ blog account from time to time. Please go to http://kuristinaoyama.livejournal.com/

I will continue blogger and ameba so when you have time please check it out. And I will still upload pic's etc. here. (^;^) I will also continue to edit my FAQ as more questions are coming in so please keep a watch!

I think it is the design of the page that kind of quiets my mind with LJ. I like Blogger to upload photo's.

Thank you and have a great day...!

K

Present Box.

I am lucky today~ Actually I am lucky to have a friend like her~.... she sent me all these surprise gifts....

Sometimes I think I may not have been so blessed in the past with kyokushin-surrounding people but I met her during my ordeals from it....  - and perhaps brought our friendship closer. hehe :)

udon (japanese noodle).

Yummy....
I went out with my Aunt yesterday. We stopped by her favorite noodle shop (^^). Let me know if anyone wants me to take them while they are here~~~!

World Tournament.

I was asked today what my thoughts are on the upcoming World Tournaments.

 Frankly, I don't understand why one of the two groups uses the title the "8th World Tournament"and infringes Sosai's name and lists as the "Founder". They have lost their court case, they changed their name and the logo (although the word Kyokushin is still used) and they have nothing to do with Sosai's karate as far as legitimacy is concerned.

Given the history of how things unfolded with this group, I think they are losers- specifically the board members.

I do salute the fighters coming though. (^^)

Organize.

One of my favorite yoga teacher- she has inspired many-  said, "You can't organize yoga. Intrinsic value cannot be organized." I really felt her words when I became so obsessed on "perfecting" my yoga- which I soon discovered perfection on human level is simply not plausible.

My father always said, "Jyunin To Iro". If there is 10 people, there is ten colors. The trick is how to work along side each other, supporting one another without compromising your color.

Home.

I know it is out of concern that people ask me this- but I thought it was kind of funny and kind of profound so I wanted to share with you all...

Right after 3/11, I got calls and emails from friends and also random people who were just worried for me and my family, when we were all going to leave Tokyo.

One day when the tremblers were still coming and going strong, I received a frantic call from a Polish friend who was in Okinawa- prepared to go back home. He asked me when I was leaving and funnily, I realized then, this IS my home! I said had no plans for leaving- and he seemed kind of shocked.

I just could not fathom leaving Honbu and the Dojo.... lol

Even if I did leave temporarily, I will come back here anyway... (^^)/

Model Role.

Nothing in the world can take place of persistence.

Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent.  Genius will not;unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education alone will not; the world is full of educated derelicts.

Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent. The slogan "press on" has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race.

-Calvin Coolidge

Kind of thought of Kyokushin and Sosai reading this.... ^^ Like people in tournaments and people trying for 100 men kumite~ just simply not giving up. They don't slack and they don't look for short cuts. 
To do a job you don't have to be asked. You just do. 

Night time view of the park near Honbu. 

Alignment.

One subject I am asked about on Sosai's philosophy is about not quitting.

Those that are succeeding and are thrilled and joyful in the unfolding will often tell you, "I've dreamed this since I was little. I imagined it, I pretended it, I used to practice with the hairbrush pretending it was a microphone." Purity is the alignment of energy. Doesn't matter what anybody else thinks about anything. It only matters what you think about it. ^^

Just need to train your mind to focus, focus, focus!

Friend.

I have great admiration for one of my BFF who currently is in the States...  she is one of those people who possess traits I find so admirable...

She seems to do everything well and I asked her what motivates her...

She said she does not have motivation but she just does it- and when she does she puts all her effort in it.

I thanked her for putting up with me for close to 20 some  years, having the patience....  and sticking around...

And she said it is easy when you love someone and think dearly of them ^^.

I am blessed to have a friend like her...

うれしい〜〜！


This is random photo I took today of the Tokyo Tower... the very pointed part of the antenna slightly got crooked after the 3/11 earthquake... dunno if you can see it though...

Tournament...

I went to watch another groups tournament today. It was nice to see people who knew me since I was a toddler... (^^)

17th Memorial.

Today is our Sosai's 17th year since his passing. We held a traditional Shinto ceremony at Honbu on Sunday, April 24th.

It was raining quite a lot the evening before and probably due to the 3/11 disaster, many understandably did not respond to the invitation. So ordering food was easy and since this ceremony also included praying for all the victims from the EarthQ/ Tsunami, we made little gifts for the guests. (^^)

Anyway just 5 minutes before, people started to tickle in and continue to come 5 minutes after the ceremony! (No, it is not good to come in later for a formal ceremony I was really happy some were running into Honbu!)                  

It was great energy because more than for me, a lot of these people have not seen each other for one reason or another.... and each had their own version of saying the missed each other and reminisced the old days.

I missed a lot of opportunity to take great pic's b/c I was running about.... ;@; but some picture's are uploaded on mas-oyama.com so please take a look. 

Scrubbing the grave..... ^^ so many incense was burned over the past few days the incense plate was black and tarred!

Cats napping in the sun.... at the temple...

Rmt.

I got a call from one of my father's former branch chief who now, also carries the title of kancho, for a quick meeting.

By tradition because of his age ( I am his junior by far), I offered to go to his dojo and have coffee instead of him traveling to Honbu.

I listened to him for about 1 hour,  he was not really getting to any point so finally I asked him what his problem was.

 He said he was signing for bankruptcy and could not pay for royalty dues to Honbu. Mind you, he never paid anything  to begin with, even though his "new" karate (after being expelled from his former org.) included to word "Kyokushin". Naturally this move made himself a target from lawyers but his thinking has always been very self- centered and "old school"so he never really listened to any advice we gave him.

His personal life style did not help either. So I asked his accountant to show me their book so I can detect what was going on. I am no accountant by any means but just from looking at the numbers, it was staggering how unmanaged everything was. They had about 7000 members and charged fee per member etc and always received substantial "donations" from all over the world. But unscrupulous management of the finances led to hell for this group.

It is so sad to see this. Because it is obvious people pay to learn Kyokushin from this person- who changed the basic and tournament rule anyways but insists on calling it Kyokushin b/c it  attracts members. And yet, he could not humble himself of his kancho position.

He broke away from his former group and caused much upset with legalities, using tremendous amount of money on lawyers that in the end, turned on him. His original concept was to "be the Sosai after Sosai" claiming this with no back up from both legal and moral standings. And now,  he wanted help but was still arrogant and quite uninformed. And worst of all, he could not let go of his sense of entitlement.

I looked around and his secretaries knew he was going off the wrong way. Sadly, they could not give their piece of mind since in the karate world, they are not allowed to.

I left the office, smelling like cigarette. But sadder and annoying than this was the after taste of the meeting.

I felt deeply the lesson to be learned here. I don't know how to quite articulate it yet but it left an impression in my mind of some lesson to be said to everyone how Sosai's karate is handled today. And how it really should be handled.

Cherry Blossoms....

Well, times passes- it 's already been a month since the earthquake, tsunami and the radiation troubles all started. Slowly people are picking up their pace and certainly the cherry blossoms are making us cheery...

The first two are from the park near Honbu.

(^^)

Caring, sharing.

This was a banner hung at Myoeong -dong area in Seoul , Korea. I was so touched... it brought tears to all the staff at for this event I participated in. It says,"Everyone from Japan, please don't give up. We are your friends".

This was at the Starbucks in Narita Airport.... (^^) Disaster Relief Fund Awareness raising donation Cup...

Sorry for the MIA, I have been running around.... will come with more picture's soon. 

Kuristina's FAQs

Hello=

eeek, wwwaa. I am asked so much questions here. Some are similar and I've answered them but it keeps coming so in case I have not answered or forgot to, I will make this page as reference. (I do monitor emails coming:)


Q. Do you train Kyokushin?
A. I trained 4 times a week or more for 6 years. I graded to Ikkyu (Brown belt) under the scrutiny of the grading panel- yes, I did not get any special treatments (--#. Now I  train once a week privately with my husband (Kancho Y. Suzuki) and practice yoga rest of the week.



Q. Is Honbu open (to the public)?
A. Not at this time. We originally had  memorial hall dedicated to Sosai but when things started missing, we felt the respect and manners were mutually exclusive to some training!!! :(



Q. What was Sosai like as a father?
A. Honestly he was a doting father just like all Dad's... just different kind of day-job. LOL. I respected his life a lot though, even as a very young girl. I recall that sense of awe towards him and his students.



Q. How many siblings do you have?
A. I am the youngest of four. But two already are in Heaven with Sosai and mother.:)



Q. Who chose the name Oyama?
A. By the time I was born, my father was Japanese nationality and had the Oyama name. I did not even know he was Korean descent until he passed.

Mori Matsuhei (politician and his picture is on the World Map of Kyokushin in the70's), my father's "Japanese father",  registered my father and mother's name under Oyama and in 1964, he took Japanese nationality.

(For clarity, my mother's side of the family is from Japan. Niigata and Yamanashi)


Q. Do you like any other Kyokushin groups?
A. Depends on the person, not the group! lol. Although their choice can pretty much sum up their basic character - I think.



Q. Do you think Kyokushin will be one again? 
The answer to that largely depends on what the intent is. My answer went thru 3 phases!:))
First I thought only one, then it became perhaps "to each their own", then now I see glimpse of other factors... but the bottom line is, regardless of what we do- Sosai's love for Kyokushin/ Karate and dedication/ contribution to the world will not wane or fade.



Q. Why are you a vegetarian?
A. Not for religious reasons. Living in NYC, I was a very strict vegan for 5, 6 years. My parents did not give me any meat until I was 5 yrs old. Then I had pretty normal to horrifying diet :)p  Then I started to take nutrition more seriously. Doing karate /yoga, you really need to know what your body can digest.



Q. What kind of person do you dislike?
A. I used to say people with big egos. I have changed my mind since then. I think as long as one can deliver results, big ego is fine. I do not like fake people. Dishonest people. I can't stand disloyal people. Which is the reason why we weeded out branch chiefs (Japan) in 2009. Two remained and they are both loyal.



Q. Are you joining KWF? 
A. I don't think join is the word.  I think they are all wanting to support us. On a personal note-, I have given much credit to Mr. L. Hollander. I hardly hear anything nice about him, but for a man his age to fly across the continent to see us and apologize, is amazing. Great foot work. Not many can be that decisive.



Q. Can you train with contact lenses? 
 Maybe not sparring.... but blurred vision might help sharpen other sense? :)



Q. Can we wear make-up during karate class?
A. I hope you are not a boy asking this... lol. I won't recommend it. If you are coming to class after work, just wipe some off. The foundation on white gi is not pretty. :(



Q. Do you teach yoga? Where can I take classes?
A. Yes I do but because I travel often, I only do private lessons.



Q. Do yo have a twitter?
A. Yes. It is twitter.com/ kuristinaoyama



Q. It is hard to take after your father? 
A. I don't take it too seriously. It is and should be about him (Sosai), not me.
I truly respect and love what he stood for. I always joke that if he had been a F1 racer, I would love cars!




Q. Anything you can share about Sosai? That not many know about?
A. He played Japanese flute. He loved to sing. And he loved twisted donut from Pompador Bakery.





Q. When did you start Yoga? What inspired you? 
A. Amazingly, it was Sosai who recommended I try yoga.

I was 19 and quite sickly- when your body is un-well with no specific cause it can really diminish your internal strength. He said my body is too weak to handle stress of any kind, which was very true.

Around this time, I moved downtown (NY) and found a job in a health food store which was owned by a Yoga Institute. That is how I started but I took it as my way of life much later on (^^)/.






Q. What is the best piece of advice from you father, Sosai Masutatsu Oyama? 
A. You can fight for what you believe in.
      If you don't have any shadows, you are not standing in the light.
      Never neglect your Self, your instincts.
      Always do your best and don't hide in regret.
      Love what you do.

I just have so many but mostly his life itself spoke volumes to me. He was just so diligent and dedicated to what he loved, over came obstacles which is so hard for us to imagine now.





Q. Are you open to people moving in from another group? 
A. The answer again depends on the person- not the group. But it is easier to assess if the person is someone I know or has referral from a mutual friend.









---will be frequently updated (hopefully~)