Why do we fight?

A friend recently said "It seems people think you attack them when you try to correct them".

I thought, "is it an attack?" . The word baffles me, honestly!

So I thought what is the logic behind it and what I can do to make things better. It really is a fight for
"Peace of Mind". No body can fight for you, but yourself.

Donald Trump, a famous NYC developer once said, "My whole life is a big old fight. I fight everyday. I just don't use the brawns, I use up here (pointing to his head)."

For me in Kyokushin there were two things that propelled me to fight. One was the way how my father died and the will was designed. And two, was about my mother.

As I look to the "opposition", not all are despicable.
 I actually  jump to their defense if ill-words are spoken about them. Because I know them since their tournament days or Uchideshi days.  And some reciprocate the same mannerism to me. So it can be looked as a long sibling rivalry perhaps.

But there is also the element of invasiveness. It is a fact most refuse to acknowledge our inherited rights. In which country did it ever occur that third party refuses to respect the legal rights and then, they go and infringe them on the grounds of their own "rationale" ?

So am I attacking. Yes, but only those who dare trespass the respectful line which my father made. There was a clear dileneation. So I think I am defending, more so then attacking.

Coco Chanel, whom I love and respect left a funny but true quote.
"Gentleness doesn't get the work done unless you happen to be a hen laying eggs."

My father never, ever ran his organization without rules. In my opinion he simply did not have to enforce them. No one dared to cross him blatantly, until Steve Arneil betrayed him. Now it is the job of the ones left to stop the fragmentation and convolution. What is happening today can be quite distorting to Kyokushin as a whole in terms of Budo and in terms of societal influence. The one's benefitting from the chaos may not like what I say but I know chaos when I see one.

Graduation.....!

Akira graduated his Jr. High school today. We are so proud of the work he put in his schooling.... Dad looks so proud...(^O^)／

Finding your authenticity....

Find your authentic self. It generally means not fitting into every social casts but it is so liberating when the criticism is taken in stride.

In Ikebukuro.

Yesterday was very quiet but today was completely different story! There was streams of people already back for shopping and other amusement!

Picture taken at the East exit of Ikebukuro Station. In case some may not know, Ikebukuro is the station where Honbu is located. The address is West Ikebukuro (^^)/

Again at the my father's gravesite- A New Year visit!

Just showing some of the "Osechi" cooking. a traditional new year day cooking. The theme of the dishes are related to health, happiness and prosperity for the coming year and prepare to be eaten on the first day of January (^^)/ . It was Suzuki who did all the preparing... hehe... 

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  

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.

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!

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. 

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.

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.... 

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~~~!

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.