http://wchoy74.blogspot.ca/2013/06/improving-by-mundane.html?m=1
http://wchoy74.blogspot.ca/2013/06/improving-by-mundane.html?m=1
Sunday, June 30, 2013
Apologies
Hello everyone this blog is to simply say that i am sorry for what my
last blog caused. I am sorry that some people misinterpreted what i was
trying to say, which was none of there faults, but mine alone. I was unable to clearly express and communicate myself properly. I was just trying to express how i was feeling, but i clearly failed to do so.
I do not have any doubts about anybody nor anyone, i will try and make
this perfectly clear as possible i am very happy and proud of this team
we have, I am also ecstatic about the accomplishment we have succeeded
in and i would not change a thing about our team. I will take it upon myself to improve my verbal an writing communication skills so this never happens again. As soon as i found out about what i had caused i immediately regretted it.
At the time i was merely trying to say how i personally feel and not
call anyone out, but i know in my blog now how it might have been seen
that way, and i am truly sorry for that. I will again make sure that i do a better job of
saying how i feel in a more private manner if need be or better
explaining myself next time. I assure you i will never sound that
negative again, because all it got me was more negativity. If anything I
Ho Chuan is the best thing that has every happened to me. Before I Ho Chuan
i had little to no friends at kung fu, because i was shy and distant,
but I Ho Chuan helped me make a lot more friends and come out of my
shell. So i will always try to remember that the next time i ever feel
negative again.
230lbs
Sihing Langner
230lbs
Sihing Langner
One more sleep
Tomorrows the big day!
Nervous about it and glad it will be done. Assuming tomorrow goes well...3 demos done! One requirement off my list.
Making progress.
Basic numbers: Rest day
Acts of kindness: said hi to 4 people on our walk, gave my dog and cat treats, made small talk with the elderly at church.
Today I consumed: piece of peanut butter and jam toast, a breakfast sandwich and hash brown, some leftover pasta/chili and a couple of toquitos. I drank 2 cups of tea, a coffee and 7 glasses of water
Changing gears
Well July first is tomorrow and so is our demo and parade. I
am personally glad the month of June is behind me. For work it was a hellish
time and my training was more minimalistic for the past two weeks because of
the long hours. Now that it’s over I can refocus and start to jump ahead on
where I want to be. These next two months are where I gain any ground I fell
behind on and will push ahead to another level personally – I can’t wait. I
know there are many of us under some pressure, just remember a little pressure
is good and an individual can really shine under this pressure. But a lot of
pressure can make a person feel helpless. In this case you need to take stock
of where you are and reprioritize. Find and make new goals and learn from your
failures. I have failed many times in my life, but again I continue to refocus
my goals and stick to a plan. I hope everyone can take the next step and enjoy
this year as a martial artist and an individual. Let’s have some fun tomorrow
and celebrate our hard work we all have put in as a team.
Sifu BryantMy Blog
Feeling better
Well I have not been doing anything this past week because of my neck and shoulders but they are definitely feeling better. In talking to several people around town I have found I am not the only one with the exact same symptoms that show up out of nowhere. They have all said that after roughly a week it's gone and things are back to normal. I am hoping that is the case for me. Need to get back to training.
Scott Fuhr
Tai Chi Inspired Training Day 10 June 29
I noticed during dance practice today how much easier it was to go in and out of low back stances. I love low back stances and I was pleasantly surprised as to how much more ease I have thanks to the crane and "high chair" stances I have been doing. Now I look for opportunities to pull off a few seconds here and there.
Kicks: During the demo practice one particular kick performed by others stuck out for me and that was the front thrust. I noticed the foot positioning and wondered if my front thrusts look like that. Somehow I have the feeling "no", so therefore, while I am in crane stance I am practicing the front thrust foot position to both strengthen and provide muscle memory to my feet. I like the crane stance in my fan form where I raise my foot behind me and would like to be able to grab my foot with my hands and raise them to at least head level. Something for me to work towards because I think that would look cool.
Core: I had the brilliant idea to take my core to my Swiss exercise ball. Actually envisioned me doing a V-sit on the ball. Key word "envision", real life = about 5 seconds with feet off the floor. Moral of the story: much harder in real life than in my mind. However, that got me thinking and snooping online for core exercises for my Swiss exercise ball. I Googled "Swiss ball core exercises" and was met with quite a few good sites. I downloaded a couple of pdf files that demonstrate core exercises using the Swiss ball as well as a research report on core activation using Swiss ball and traditional core exercises. Here are the links for Swiss Ball Core Exercises and Core Activation Research Report
Forms: The biggie today was during a conversation with Sifu Robinson of my brainwaves for my left hand fan form. Out of the conversation came the thought that this left hand form could be a continuation of my current right hand fan form. Brilliant because the scenario works. Now to practice my toss and further my moves.
I was successful at making tortillas today and now want a tortilla press. Tortillas are actually easy to make (2 ingredients: Maseca corn flour and water), but the catch is there is a technique to it. There's a few "just rights" along the way including how the peel the thing off the parchment without it breaking. A lot of the tortilla making is all about technique. Where have I heard about this technique thing before?
Sherri Donohue
My Blog
Kicks: During the demo practice one particular kick performed by others stuck out for me and that was the front thrust. I noticed the foot positioning and wondered if my front thrusts look like that. Somehow I have the feeling "no", so therefore, while I am in crane stance I am practicing the front thrust foot position to both strengthen and provide muscle memory to my feet. I like the crane stance in my fan form where I raise my foot behind me and would like to be able to grab my foot with my hands and raise them to at least head level. Something for me to work towards because I think that would look cool.
Core: I had the brilliant idea to take my core to my Swiss exercise ball. Actually envisioned me doing a V-sit on the ball. Key word "envision", real life = about 5 seconds with feet off the floor. Moral of the story: much harder in real life than in my mind. However, that got me thinking and snooping online for core exercises for my Swiss exercise ball. I Googled "Swiss ball core exercises" and was met with quite a few good sites. I downloaded a couple of pdf files that demonstrate core exercises using the Swiss ball as well as a research report on core activation using Swiss ball and traditional core exercises. Here are the links for Swiss Ball Core Exercises and Core Activation Research Report
Forms: The biggie today was during a conversation with Sifu Robinson of my brainwaves for my left hand fan form. Out of the conversation came the thought that this left hand form could be a continuation of my current right hand fan form. Brilliant because the scenario works. Now to practice my toss and further my moves.
I was successful at making tortillas today and now want a tortilla press. Tortillas are actually easy to make (2 ingredients: Maseca corn flour and water), but the catch is there is a technique to it. There's a few "just rights" along the way including how the peel the thing off the parchment without it breaking. A lot of the tortilla making is all about technique. Where have I heard about this technique thing before?
Sherri Donohue
My Blog
Bugs!
Ok betcha thought I'd given up on gardening and food, since its been so long since I've blogged about it. Ha! This is the time for application...I've been gardening, mulching, digging, making a great mess of my feet and hands (as noted by many in the kwoon yesterday...:) )The research continues too, but at a slower pace as I shift more into doing rather than reading, but I do have some interesting things to share with you.
One of the major things I've been reading in both arenas of health and gardening, is about bugs. Not the big bugs that you're swatting as we speak, but the bacteria level kind. Step away from the hand sanitizer! My blog will not harm you! Its interesting as I learn more about gardening--you'd think its all about location, right plants for right spot, water, fertilizer, all that kind of thing, and it is to some degree, but first its the soil. The soil is your base, if its not healthy, nothing else you do will continue to work, or have lasting good. What is healthy soil? Soil thats teeming with life--bacteria, bugs, worms, food. The soil provides food for your plants and to do that it needs all kinds of workers to break down things like dead plants, to provide the basic elements (like vitamens, minerals) in forms the plants can use. In short, it needs all the bacteria, fungus, worms, etc. Then we come along, rake up all the leaves (looks messy) and dump on artificial chemicals. What does this do? Well first we remove the really good food--leaves are great--and then we give the plant the shot of what we think it needs. So we starve the bugs we need and they die, leaving the plant without its support system and protection in some instances, and basically teach the plant to become chemically dependant. Yes we are making them junkies. And then we have to spray with nasty chemicals to keep away the weeds and bugs that are trying to eat these weak plants (put them out of their misery)...vicious circle.
So what does that have to do with food? Well other than we're injesting weakened plants that cant give us the nutrition we need-I'm sure you've all read or heard about how our food doesnt pack the nutritional punch it once did. Now you know why! Plus we have all these chemicals now sprayed on our food or have food thats been genetically changed thats doing Lord knows what to us (Theres alot on GMO out there, I encourage you to do some research!) and we wonder why allergies, asthma, chrons, colitis, irritable bowel and many other things are on the rise. Well, just like the plant kingdom, we too have to go to our base, our soil, our gut.Back to where the bugs live.
Now we're SUPPOSED to have things like bacteria in our gut--this isnt a bad thing! Just like with plants, they help break down our food, and protect us from things so long as they are in healthy balance. But if we dont give them what they need (food) and kill them with chemicals (such as antibiotics) things can get out of whack. The balance can be thrown off and bacteria that arent so helpful can do lots of things to our bodies. Some of the research I've looked at has suggested that things like allergies, eczema,etc are like an early warning; all the doctors tests come back normal, you're fine, just have this minor problem. But its not going to stay minor--its your body trying to tell you the balance is off. And if we continue to ignore the gut issue, treat the warning with allergy pills or whatever,then we end up with major things down the road like diabetes, arthritis, Chrons, bowel cancers; things that CAN be found with a medical test.
Both the gardening and health research seems to follow the same trend, doesnt it? Ok, so what can we do? Face it, we've all been sick and had antibiotics before. They serve a purpose. But how do we re balance? Probiotics are a good start. (Good ones have to be stored in a fridge. DO NOT buy ones that are stored out on a shelf.) I've been having good luck with a mix of probiotics and digestive enzymes. But how can this be prevented and not be on pills?
Lets look at food and how we get the vitamens and things we need. One thing we need is enzymes to break down our food--some we produce ourselves, some come from our food. What kind of food? Plants. Fruit. Meat. And apparently cooking destroys the enzymes we need, and our body has to work doubly hard to produce the enzymes needed. So I'm 40--I've been eating a mix of cooked food, processed food, some raw my whole life. Been on antibiotics a few times in my life, and I have ulcerative colitis that popped up in my 20's. Suddenly I have some food sensitivities and eczema that I've never had in my life. Whats up? Well I've been eating food that hasnt given me much of any enzymes (or great nutrition) for a long time now, and I'm sure my organs are getting tired of picking up the slack. I've had times where I've killed off my good bacteria because of illness and I'm exposed to more and more chemicals as my life goes on. Should I be surprised I only have these problems? So...just like mom said, I'm eating my veggies, my fruit raw as often as I can, supplementing with digestive enzymes to try and turn this thing around. And its working! I've been off my medication for ulcerative colitis for a while now, my eczema has settled down and food isnt bothering me nearly as much. A great resource for all of this --that finally got me understanding things--is Allergies; Disease in Disguise by Carolee Bateson-Koch.
So what point am I trying to make? That just like our kungfu pyramid, where if your base isnt strong, you cant advance to the top, the same goes for our world, our bodies, our food. If we dont fix whats wrong at our base in our bodies, we arent going to do as well, and may even cause damage that wont be repairable. If we dont fix our soil, we arent going to be able to fix ourselves either. And it all depends on bugs. Ironic isn't it?
Check these out:hello@yumuniverse.com> article on bacteria
Dr Dahlmans site is a place to start, and he has a book called 'why doesnt my doctor know this?' thats a good start.
Final push
I am writing my national certification exam this month, the 16th to be exact. I forgot how much I hate studying for tests! One of my goals was to get at least 85% on this exam. I've been studying on my lunch break but I know I need to put more time in than that. With the demo performance tomorrow I will be able to put studying as my new short term goal.
School is out and I couldn't be more proud of my girls report cards and awards at the end of the year. They both got leadership awards this year, really cool to see my kids putting into practice what we talk about and teach at kung fu. There have been times when doing the right thing has been extremely hard for them, especially Chantal in grade 7. She is one of the only people I know that will do the right thing every time. She has stood up to people in defense of others and it has cost her a lot sometimes. She doesn't have a very thick skin, so many nights at bedtime I've sat with her and tried to make sense of why people do the things they do while she cried. Anyone with kids knows what I mean. I hope that I can live up to her example if I was in a similar situation, it's tough to take the high road and it's often a lonely one.
Can't wait for the demo tomorrow, think of the hours of hard work we've put into this thing, not to mention the literal buckets of sweat! See you all tomorrow.
Saturday, June 29, 2013
Demo Perspective
Today was bitter sweet. Firstly
it was the first day back in the Kwoon since my work departure weeks ago. It was a chance to see the blood sweat and
tears that have went into the demo for Canada Day.
As always, when you have been part of something from the beginning, and
have repeated it many times, it is difficult to step back and see the progress
you are making. There are few advantages to being on the outside of an event
like this one, but one thing it does afford me is a clear perspective on the
product that has been developed in my absence..
Watching this demo I equated to the motivational boost of the black belt
ceremony. It was inspirational to see
how far each person, and the team had come since I had left. To everyone involved it was AWESOME! It was affirmation to me why this group of
people are the ones I choose to be around.
Watching the demo makes me proud and extremely honored that I can be a
part of this.
This could not have come at a better time, as currently I have been
struggling with the transition of being away.
To those of you at the Kwoon today that I had a chance to speak with,
thank you for your words of kindness, motivation and support, they are much
appreciated, as are your comments and blog postings which I have resorted to
following regularly.
To everyone in the Demo on Monday, we will see you there. I can’t wait
to experience it, and offer any support I can!
Good Luck!
vincekrebs.blogspot.com
Resting up for the demo
My shoulder has started to act up (I think in part from all the drumming and pushups) so I took it easy today for the demo coming up. After Monday I can start pushing it again, but for now I want to play it safe. Nothing worse than a side-lining injury before a demo! I think it's good to have a couple good rest days before a big performance, gives your body a chance to heal up and prepare. Then I'll be totally ready to go hard on Monday. Our stuff is starting to look really good. I hope someone video-tapes it.
Basic numbers: broadsword, 3, tai chi, 1, pushups, 6, crunches, 0, kicks, 0
Acts of kindness: Encouraged a friend, jumped with Julia on her Grandmas trampoline (this is an act of kindness because I'm not a big trampoliner), gave my cat and dog treats.
Today I consumed: a piece of peanut butter and jam toast, some leftover chill, some salad, roast pork and baked potatoe. I drank a cup of tea, 8 glasses of water and a beer.
World War Z
Went and saw World War Z tonight in the theatre. It was alright as far as zombie movies go. I always think about what I would do if faced with that situation (any movies). I like to think I would be a super ninja that would chop my way through with my trusty sword. Part of me knows I'll need more practice to be ready for zombies though.
Basic numbers: tai chi, 4, broadsword, 3, pushups, 204, crunches, 202, kicks, 208
Acts of kindness: made Mike breakfast, let someone into the office, helped someone with a project.
Today I consumed: a bagel with cream cheese, a turkey and cheese sandwich, a banana, some mini cookies, some leftover chili and a veggie burger. I drank 8 glasses of water, one cup of coffee, 2 cups of tea and one gin and tonic.
Friday, June 28, 2013
Tai Chi Inspired Training Day 9 June 28
Today I did my training at the Kwoon and received some great insights during Sihing class. I was informed that during my board breaking sequence I lifted my heel during my front thrust kick thereby dissipating my power and that to make my elbow technique two handed. Putting my hands together makes the technique one handed. Very valuable information.
Kicks: I practiced my kicks being conscious of returning to center. From what I saw in the mirror, my knee didn't roll in. Must check tomorrow before Tai Chi class. I also practiced holding my crane stance at various times throughout the evening. The stability is better and improving.
Core: So here I am in my "high chair" doing my crunches and Sihing Lowery asked what I was doing. My response was "crunches". Her reply was "looks like kegels" (bladder exercises for women). Gee thanks, what a pal!! Because I didn't want the whole class to think I was kegelling it, I held off on my core until I got the brilliant idea to make the movements very small, but still intense. Hah!! That worked. I was still practicing my crunches without obvious movement under my shirt. Yes, my abdominal muscles feel worked.
Forms: Getting into the kneeling position for Awakening The Dragon was a trying effort because my left foot kept cramping. How people can sit in that position for a long time is beyond me. However, I managed to get into position and held it there for the entire length of the demo without feeling the discomfort I have felt in previous days. Yay for me!! I also worked with my fan (left hand) and have the first few moves that I like. Now to build on it.
I am finding that I look forward to my daily training and I think it's because I get very present and in tune with what I am doing. There are a few exercises that I do during the day to bring my mind out of the stratosphere and into the here and now. I believe that right now my Kung Fu training is adding to those such exercises.
Sherri Donohue
My Blog
Kicks: I practiced my kicks being conscious of returning to center. From what I saw in the mirror, my knee didn't roll in. Must check tomorrow before Tai Chi class. I also practiced holding my crane stance at various times throughout the evening. The stability is better and improving.
Core: So here I am in my "high chair" doing my crunches and Sihing Lowery asked what I was doing. My response was "crunches". Her reply was "looks like kegels" (bladder exercises for women). Gee thanks, what a pal!! Because I didn't want the whole class to think I was kegelling it, I held off on my core until I got the brilliant idea to make the movements very small, but still intense. Hah!! That worked. I was still practicing my crunches without obvious movement under my shirt. Yes, my abdominal muscles feel worked.
Forms: Getting into the kneeling position for Awakening The Dragon was a trying effort because my left foot kept cramping. How people can sit in that position for a long time is beyond me. However, I managed to get into position and held it there for the entire length of the demo without feeling the discomfort I have felt in previous days. Yay for me!! I also worked with my fan (left hand) and have the first few moves that I like. Now to build on it.
I am finding that I look forward to my daily training and I think it's because I get very present and in tune with what I am doing. There are a few exercises that I do during the day to bring my mind out of the stratosphere and into the here and now. I believe that right now my Kung Fu training is adding to those such exercises.
Sherri Donohue
My Blog
New Music, new demo, new Lion/Dragon dance
I can’t believe it is going to be Canada Day already. We are at the half way mark for our I Ho Chuan year of the Snake and for most this demo will mark our third performance of the year. One of the requirements of the I Ho Chuan is to perform in at least 3 demos throughout the year and be part of Canada Day. Now we all know that life has its ways to interfere and disrupt even the best thought out plans. Those of you that on Monday July 1st will have completed your third demo of the year congratulations, but it’s not over yet, so keep working hard and make sure to be at all practices. Those of us that have had the misfortune to have life get in the way. Don’t give up, this is not the end. We still are guaranteed to have at least one more opportunity to perform in another demo that is at our Chinese New Year’s banquet. And if you are still short on your count why not organize another demo at a different event or place; it will also give you a great opportunity to develop your leadership skills.
Happy Canada everyone.
Where am I? What am I doing?
Tai Chi Inspired Training Day 8 June 27
This afternoon I started to swirl in the vortex of "I DON'T HAVE TIME FOR THIS!!" and that's exactly when I hauled myself outside to train. Shift the energy, break the cycle, and also to re-ground myself.
Kicks: I certainly do believe I solved the "Caramilk secret" of my left knee rolling in. This time I was in slippers and very mindful of returning to center and then back to heel on ground. Now to make this a muscle memory. Speaking of muscles, my knees and quads are feeling more solid as in strength.
Core: I like the crunches in "high chair" position as my abs get a good workout and I'm also working my quads. I started to clue into when my shoulders started to raise and corrected that so that it's just my core muscles working. I wonder how much my shoulders are involved when I'm doing my crunches on the mat. Methinks by training the muscles "in the air" will have an impact for when I'm on the mats.
Forms: Awakening the Dragon is much better in the "high chair" position than kneeling. I will still kneel to stretch out the parts of my legs that need to be stretched and I will continue doing Awakening the Dragon in "high chair" because I am more aware of what the rest of my body is doing (like my shoulders raising) plus I am working my quads at the same time. So when am I moving on to Da Mah Hsuing? Not quite as I want to do a bit more work on my crane and work on correct technique for my punches while in a horse stance (no movement distraction).
After my training session, I did feel more relaxed and grounded. Being outside gives a whole different dimension and feel. Plus it's summer, and time to take advantage of the nice weather.
Sherri Donohue
My Blog
Kicks: I certainly do believe I solved the "Caramilk secret" of my left knee rolling in. This time I was in slippers and very mindful of returning to center and then back to heel on ground. Now to make this a muscle memory. Speaking of muscles, my knees and quads are feeling more solid as in strength.
Core: I like the crunches in "high chair" position as my abs get a good workout and I'm also working my quads. I started to clue into when my shoulders started to raise and corrected that so that it's just my core muscles working. I wonder how much my shoulders are involved when I'm doing my crunches on the mat. Methinks by training the muscles "in the air" will have an impact for when I'm on the mats.
Forms: Awakening the Dragon is much better in the "high chair" position than kneeling. I will still kneel to stretch out the parts of my legs that need to be stretched and I will continue doing Awakening the Dragon in "high chair" because I am more aware of what the rest of my body is doing (like my shoulders raising) plus I am working my quads at the same time. So when am I moving on to Da Mah Hsuing? Not quite as I want to do a bit more work on my crane and work on correct technique for my punches while in a horse stance (no movement distraction).
After my training session, I did feel more relaxed and grounded. Being outside gives a whole different dimension and feel. Plus it's summer, and time to take advantage of the nice weather.
Sherri Donohue
My Blog
Thursday, June 27, 2013
Thanks Romeo!
I learned something about my spinning back kick tonight.....I'm swinging it a little bit:(
How did I find this out?
I'm in the kitchen doing my thing when the dog comes in and lays down in front of me. I went to do my kick and caught his nose (he's fine don't worry) while I was coming around. Unfortunately my husband saw so now I'll never live it down...."did you just kick his face?!?"
Bah!
Have to work on getting that crane stance up!
Basic numbers: 202 crunches, 204 pushups, 208 kicks, 4 tai chi reps, 3 broadsword reps
Acts of kindness: made Julia a picnic lunch, made Mike breakfast and a lunch, phoned my gramma
Today I consumed: half a breakfast sandwich, a banana, a peanut butter and jam sandwich, some chill with bread, a slice of pie and I'm eating some toquitos right now before bed (bad I know!). I drank 23 cups of tea and 8 glasses of water and 1 beer with the toquitos.
So, Obviously…
…I am not really doing that great with my attitude. Anger, frustration, bitterness, none of it logical or useful. Sending brain away for repairs this week and plan to work off a Duracell battery till it is returned. Probably be an improvement. Nothing more to say.
http://sharidactyl.wordpress.com
http://sharidactyl.wordpress.com
Combinations
I talked about how much I disliked combinations before, but yesterday I had a class with combinations that I liked. It was fun doing them with partners.
I used to get discouraged because I was always getting corrected on whatever I did in class and it seemed much more than everyone else. It doesn't really bother me anymore, it's kind of neat how the Sifu's can see whenever I move wrong and fix it right away. Better than going through to Sihing with bad habits. I'm starting to really like the intermediate class, even though it's so late.
I'm off to my brother's wedding tomorrow, all the best to everyone in the Canada Day demo!!!!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gkr0VYcZ-eY
I used to get discouraged because I was always getting corrected on whatever I did in class and it seemed much more than everyone else. It doesn't really bother me anymore, it's kind of neat how the Sifu's can see whenever I move wrong and fix it right away. Better than going through to Sihing with bad habits. I'm starting to really like the intermediate class, even though it's so late.
I'm off to my brother's wedding tomorrow, all the best to everyone in the Canada Day demo!!!!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gkr0VYcZ-eY
Wednesday, June 26, 2013
Sleep
I've been struggling these last couple weeks to stay on my sleep schedule. Next week, after the Canada Day demo, I want to get back to the swing of things. I think a sleep schedule is important.......mmmmm...sleep!
Basic numbers: 3 reps of tai chi, 4 reps of broadsword, 208 pushups, 202 crunches, 238 kicks
Acts of kindness: let someone ahead of me in traffic, let 2 people pass me on the walking trail, made Mike breakfast and a lunch.
Today I consumed: a bagel with cream cheese, a roast beef sandwich, a banana, a boiled egg, a brownie, half a muffin and some pasta with shrimp and veg. I drank a cup of tea, a cup of coffee and 9 glasses of water.
Rambling on about what makes me tick
Where is our
civilization going? And how fast is it getting there? These are some of the
questions being discussed over on the ArchDruid report. I like reading his
report because he offers a well reasoned, historically accurate view of the
world. I used to read all the conspiracy sites, but other than convincing me
that much of the information that passes for news is fabricated for one purpose
or another, it did little good in the real world. By this I mean that even if
you knew for a fact that space lizards had taken over the government, how would
this knowledge affect what your day to day activities were? I have some non-mainstream views of the world,
but then again most people that do any significant work at Kung Fu are also
non-mainstream too. I believe that peak oil is real, because the actual
predictions made before the peak are consistent with what is actually happening
in the world I can observe. There are other predictions that indicate infinite
growth on a finite planet is not possible, so those predictions that involve
infinite growth, or worse, infinite exponential growth (that the economy can
grow at 4% compounded forever is good and healthy is one). So what is the value
in these world views? The value is that seeing the world “as it is” will allow
smarter choices, rather than being led down the garden path due to wishful
and/or manipulated worldview. The current topic of discussion at the ArchDruid
Report is the trajectory of our current civilization, and the American empire
within it. He is making the argument that civilizations and empires have life
spans, much as all other life forms on this planet. Much of the conversation
has been on the subject of “but this time it’s different”, and the rebuttal
that yes, this time is unique, just as every single person has a unique life,
but we all are born, go through puberty, slowly age then get old and die. Some
live a full life; some are cut short by accident or war. Our current situation
is that we are a part of the American Empire and that empire is showing a lot of grey hair,
and is getting short of breath when it attempts things that in its youth just
got its blood flowing.
So how does
this help on a day to day basis in the real world, as lived by real people such
as us? It helps to see through the smoke and mirrors, and get a better handle
on where life will actually take us. The stock market is not reality, and its
ups and downs are only somewhat related to the question whether or not supper
is affordable. Here are some of my predictions, and what I am actually doing
about them (the most accurate prediction is useless if you don’t act on it).
First, energy will get more expensive, in all its forms, the response is to
improve the energy efficiency of my home, and add solar panels to reduce what I
have to buy. Replacing vehicles at this point is more than I want to pay, but by
combining errands, I can reduce the miles driven. Second, healthy food will get
more expensive, so put in a garden, buy in bulk, make friends with a master gardener.
Third, the health care system will become more and more stressed, especially as
the baby boomers retire. Here the best defence is to stay in shape, and eat
healthy. I already addressed eating, so here is where the plug for Kung Fu
comes in, get in shape, stay in shape. This is an ongoing process of course.
Another prediction that is directly related to Kung Fu is crime. As the economy
hits the bumps in the road (aggravated by peak oil) crime naturally goes up.
Only a small percentage of those without paying work turn to crime, but it can
still affect you along the way (I shouldn’t have to spell out the connection
between Kung Fu and self defence).
Now, the
decline in this civilization will take its time, probably several generations,
but the catch is that the decline tends to be patchy and localized. Some parts
of the country are doing great, and others are in trouble. Right now, Alberta
is the place to be (until the bill for flood damage comes in), but my parents
told me stories from the 1930’s, when our economy wasn’t so great. I would
rather be prepared and not need to be, than discover that I needed to prepare
and no longer have the time and resources.
Tai Chi Inspired Training Day 7 June 26
Chiropractor visit today, a practice that I implement for good spine and nervous system health. My ac joint in my shoulder was a bit high so that got adjusted back into place. After chiropractic appointments, I move through the day easier than normal mainly because I don't want to undo what I just got done. Makes sense to me.
It's now after supper and training has not been done yet. However the banana bread is in the oven so it's a great time to train. I decided to take the training outside today. Such a gorgeous evening that it would be a shame not to enjoy it so I donned on my running shoes and onto the deck I went.
Kicks: I'm not sure why I chose to train in running shoes, but I did and I had the thought that I'm not always going to be on mats and barefoot. The shoes give me a little extra support that my feet might not have, so let's see what happens. I noticed that my left knee wasn't turning in this time. What's up? Upon closer attention, I realized that there was a difference in the way I returned my back (right) leg into the bow stance from the crane. Tonight I brought my right foot (still in air) right back to center (as in center center) and then placed it into bow stance position with the heel down. I thought for a second and realized that I might not have been returning to center therefore causing my knee to rotate in. This might just be a Eureka!! discovery.
Core: I'm on a concrete deck and no thanks to doing crunches on that surface! The lawn? Not with 2 dogs that would see that as a great time to pounce. What if I did my crunches standing in the "high chair" position that is used in Tai Chi? It would be good for posture and work my quads. What a brilliant thought and it so works to do crunches from the standing "high chair" position.
Forms: It's such a beautiful peaceful night that Awakening the Dragon seems like the thing to do, however I did the form from the "high chair" position instead of the regular seated position. Wow!! Breathing went into my belly (and swooshed around all of the watermelon I ate for supper) and the form flowed so much easier being very peaceful and relaxing. I caught my shoulders raising during the "circle" portion and corrected that mistake. It was so nice to do Awakening the Dragon outside, while watching and listening to nature. Must do that again.
Training today was awesome in a way that I've never felt before. All I know is that I want to return to this place sooner than later.
Sherri Donohue
My Blog
It's now after supper and training has not been done yet. However the banana bread is in the oven so it's a great time to train. I decided to take the training outside today. Such a gorgeous evening that it would be a shame not to enjoy it so I donned on my running shoes and onto the deck I went.
Kicks: I'm not sure why I chose to train in running shoes, but I did and I had the thought that I'm not always going to be on mats and barefoot. The shoes give me a little extra support that my feet might not have, so let's see what happens. I noticed that my left knee wasn't turning in this time. What's up? Upon closer attention, I realized that there was a difference in the way I returned my back (right) leg into the bow stance from the crane. Tonight I brought my right foot (still in air) right back to center (as in center center) and then placed it into bow stance position with the heel down. I thought for a second and realized that I might not have been returning to center therefore causing my knee to rotate in. This might just be a Eureka!! discovery.
Core: I'm on a concrete deck and no thanks to doing crunches on that surface! The lawn? Not with 2 dogs that would see that as a great time to pounce. What if I did my crunches standing in the "high chair" position that is used in Tai Chi? It would be good for posture and work my quads. What a brilliant thought and it so works to do crunches from the standing "high chair" position.
Forms: It's such a beautiful peaceful night that Awakening the Dragon seems like the thing to do, however I did the form from the "high chair" position instead of the regular seated position. Wow!! Breathing went into my belly (and swooshed around all of the watermelon I ate for supper) and the form flowed so much easier being very peaceful and relaxing. I caught my shoulders raising during the "circle" portion and corrected that mistake. It was so nice to do Awakening the Dragon outside, while watching and listening to nature. Must do that again.
Training today was awesome in a way that I've never felt before. All I know is that I want to return to this place sooner than later.
Sherri Donohue
My Blog
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
Calling Sihing Tymchuk!
The dragon/lion dance is starting to look good. Everyone has been putting in 110% and it shows. Demos are stressful but exciting too. I will be glad when it's over though. I'll be able to go to bed at a reasonable time again:)
And Sihing Tymchuk....the lion missed you at practice tonight! Hope all is well.
Basic numbers: tai chi reps: 4; broadsword reps: 4; pushups: 229; crunches: 202; kicks: 223
Acts of kindness: let a spider live, made muffins for Mike and Julia, made Mike lunch and breakfast before he went to work.
Today I consumed: 2 pieces of peach pie, half a bagel with peanut butter, some macaroni with cheese, a banana, some apple slices, some mashed potatos with gravy, carrots and chicken. I drank 4 cups of tea and 6 glasses of water.
Tai Chi Inspired Training Day 6, June 25
Dennis having a day off during the week puts my day into a 3-hour time dimension spin. Just sayin'. However, the day flowed through.
I noticed what was missing in regards to a couple of projects that I am working on or trying to work on and getting nowhere. I was missing my rock-solid confidence that I have when I usually pursue something. When discussing this with my coach this afternoon, the advice was that confidence can be at any level during the project (whatever the project is), have the confidence and then carry forward. I'll start now.
Before my training today, I took a few minutes to get present and ground in to focus on the here and now.
Kicks: Still with the crane because I figure that if I don't have a solid foot foundation, what's the point of the rest of the kick? I chose to do my crane stances with my eyes closed. Insert wobble-city. That's a big bubble clue as to what needs work on! I then opened my eyes, had my hands in guard position between my waist and heart, and come in and out of crane slowly. Still wobbly. I noticed that my breathing was up in my shoulders so I lowered my breath and focused a breath in during leg up and breath out during leg down. This flowed. I noticed that a high rising block and reverse punch organically appeared. Nice!
Core: Today I focused on breath in/rise, breath out/retreat and breathed deeply while doing so. Yep, felt the muscles, especially the lower abs.
Forms: Awakening the Dragon kneel position is getting better and I still have tension spots. As a result my breathing is up in my shoulders with this. The form flowed somewhat, but wasn't organic and that's probably due to the tension spots I am feeling. I switched positions to my feet (heels and toes touching) in front of me. It was better, but this form is far from feeling natural. I also noticed that my breathing didn't flow nicely into my belly, stayed somewhere around my shoulders. Tomorrow I will do my forms first after getting present to see if there is a difference. I have been milling around a fan form in my mind. I have a few moves and the scenario. It's a start.
I noticed today that even though my day went through a time warp, I ensured my training was done. Not because I had to, because I wanted to. I get present in the here and now for my training, which, is something that I do with my energy (chi) programs and coaching I am in. I say that's a common thread.
Sherri Donohue
My Blog
I noticed what was missing in regards to a couple of projects that I am working on or trying to work on and getting nowhere. I was missing my rock-solid confidence that I have when I usually pursue something. When discussing this with my coach this afternoon, the advice was that confidence can be at any level during the project (whatever the project is), have the confidence and then carry forward. I'll start now.
Before my training today, I took a few minutes to get present and ground in to focus on the here and now.
Kicks: Still with the crane because I figure that if I don't have a solid foot foundation, what's the point of the rest of the kick? I chose to do my crane stances with my eyes closed. Insert wobble-city. That's a big bubble clue as to what needs work on! I then opened my eyes, had my hands in guard position between my waist and heart, and come in and out of crane slowly. Still wobbly. I noticed that my breathing was up in my shoulders so I lowered my breath and focused a breath in during leg up and breath out during leg down. This flowed. I noticed that a high rising block and reverse punch organically appeared. Nice!
Core: Today I focused on breath in/rise, breath out/retreat and breathed deeply while doing so. Yep, felt the muscles, especially the lower abs.
Forms: Awakening the Dragon kneel position is getting better and I still have tension spots. As a result my breathing is up in my shoulders with this. The form flowed somewhat, but wasn't organic and that's probably due to the tension spots I am feeling. I switched positions to my feet (heels and toes touching) in front of me. It was better, but this form is far from feeling natural. I also noticed that my breathing didn't flow nicely into my belly, stayed somewhere around my shoulders. Tomorrow I will do my forms first after getting present to see if there is a difference. I have been milling around a fan form in my mind. I have a few moves and the scenario. It's a start.
I noticed today that even though my day went through a time warp, I ensured my training was done. Not because I had to, because I wanted to. I get present in the here and now for my training, which, is something that I do with my energy (chi) programs and coaching I am in. I say that's a common thread.
Sherri Donohue
My Blog
Am I a failure?
My family is one of the main reasons why I joined Kung Fu and I always like to use the phrase Sifu Brinker is using - "use it as a tool and not as a hoop" and relate it to my Kung Fu training. I learn Kung Fu because it is a tool to achieve my goals and core values.
I guess my point is that even when it is hard and even when we feel down, we should see how the experience is benefiting us and our journey for better life.
"Failure isn't the end. It's just part of the journey to success. Quitting is the end. Never give up." Bonnie Pfiester.
http://csillag-stars.blogspot.ca/2013/06/am-i-failure.html
Ruffled Feathers
There have been some ruffled feathers lately, although I can't understand why. All the time spent towards the demos and the dragon dance have been for the benefit of everyone, not just those who have taken on the leader title. Every hour you spend at the kwoon is an hour towards your own training, your own goals, your own development. We are trying to create the most and best opportunities for people to develop personally, sometimes to the point of sacrificing our own goals. These practices are not prison sentences, not military strikes. They are an investment on your part. And they are what it means to be a part of the I Ho Chuan, which is defined as the elite of the school. Do you feel you're up to that title? I sure don't, hence the reason I'm pushing myself to earn that title.
http://dogsthinking.blogspot.ca/
http://dogsthinking.blogspot.ca/
Didn't I Just Do a Warmup?
I successfully completed my 3rd warmup. Still don't like it but I've seemed to come up with a way that makes it a bit easier for me plus, I get to do whatever I want. I don't have to do squat thrusts if I don't want too and as soon as I get tired, I have the control to change things up. I think maybe if I do a few more, it won't be such a big deal...I seriously hope Sifu Lindstrom doesn't read my blog or he'll hold me to that...Seriously Sifu, don't hold me to that...I'm much braver over the internet!
My pushups and situps have fallen off the wagon and I can tell. I'm going to have to get back on that and not be so friendly with my snooze button. I also haven't been practicing my hand form as I've become frustrated with it and have been concentrating on learning the orange belt forms. I know that if you're frustrated it means you should practice it more but I am kind of a belligerant child sometimes.
I do miss practices and getting to know everyone, I wish I lived closer and didn't have to work so early, even my Monday and Wednesday classes are becoming difficult. Maybe in the future some of our practices can be on a Saturdays.
Having a bad day? How can you not be happy while watching baby pandas?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u155ncSlkCk
My pushups and situps have fallen off the wagon and I can tell. I'm going to have to get back on that and not be so friendly with my snooze button. I also haven't been practicing my hand form as I've become frustrated with it and have been concentrating on learning the orange belt forms. I know that if you're frustrated it means you should practice it more but I am kind of a belligerant child sometimes.
I do miss practices and getting to know everyone, I wish I lived closer and didn't have to work so early, even my Monday and Wednesday classes are becoming difficult. Maybe in the future some of our practices can be on a Saturdays.
Having a bad day? How can you not be happy while watching baby pandas?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u155ncSlkCk
Monday, June 24, 2013
Don't lose heart now guys!
So lately, there has been a lot of frustration regarding the demo. I know that the going has been tough. I myself have been frustrated. Many people in the I Ho Chuan don't have very much experience doing demos, if any at all. Some of us have a lot of experience. Canada Day will help bridge that experience gap a little bit.
Getting involved in a big scale demo can be very intimidating and overwhelming. It takes a lot of time, effort and sometimes you feel like it is consuming your life.
If you find yourself feeling frustrated and disheartened, I encourage you to do something positive about it. By changing your attitude towards something, you influence those around you to do the same. This demo isn't a hoop for us to jump through, it is an opportunity for us to come together as a team and grow. We need to pull together and support each other. I know it's a stressful time....but to be honest I've never been involved in a demo that wasn't a little bit stressful. But if we all work hard, the demo will be a success and something we can all learn from. This is an opportunity for us to grow and I hope everyone sees that.
Basic numbers: pushups: 204; crunches: 202; kicks: 208; tai chi reps: 4; broadsword reps: 6
Acts of kindness: let 2 people in front of me in traffic, let a guy turn ahead of me at the 4way stop, gave my dog a treat and bought Julia a kinder surprise as a treat.
Today I consumed: a bagel with peanut butter, a roast beef sandwich with cheese, an apple, 2 mini cookies, a doughnut, a yogurt cup and some pasta with shrimp and veg. I drank 2 cups of tea, a cup of coffee and 8 glasses of water.
Take The Time For People
For the last 3 years I have worked at a senior’s complex
doing grounds maintenance for the summer months. It’s a part time job that I enjoy. Its outside (where I love to be) and doing
work that even gives a little bit of a work out. But the best part is the people. What little it takes to give a smile or a
wave or a moment of your time just to chat.
Friday alone, I stopped at least 6 times to visit with different people
who live in the complex. I admit it was
hard not to keep looking up at the sky wondering if I was going to beat the
next rain storm, but seeing the difference it makes in people’s faces made the
possibility of even finishing in a monsoon worth it.
The last year and a half I have very deliberately gone out
of my way to make eye contact, smile and even strike up a conversation with
complete strangers, no matter where I am.
My children are horrified some times and I can see them slowly move away
with a look on their face of ‘I’m not with her.’ Yes, I have got a few odd
looks but majority of the time it is a look of first surprise and then
appreciation. People like being talked
to and acknowledged. How many times I
have seen people texting while going through a till at the grocery store and
they don’t even have the courtesy to look up or acknowledge the person who is
helping them! It truly is sad. I don’t believe that people take the time to
notice anyone or anything around them anymore.
They seem so rushed to get to their next stop that they miss some cool
opportunities to make someone’s day and to meet some great people. I challenge everyone to take time for the people
around you, the ones you know and even the ones you don’t know yet!
Alana Regier
Progress
I feel like we had a breakthrough as far as practices go this week. Mr. Donahue has adapted his cane form and we are making it work with one attacker. It's fun and I think I finally stopped bumbling around and it's looking a lot better. My acting needs work, hopefully that will come. I also made progress with my cane form, it's almost done! It needs a few more moves, and it's not that smooth yet but that will come with practice. Hurray! Progress!
I am trying to be more mindful of my free time so I can actually enjoy it instead of wishing there was more of it or it was at a different time. I only had Sunday off this week but making sure I wasn't getting stressed about all the stuff I had to get done in one day makes a big difference. Spending an hour this Sunday with my feet up outside, having a coffee with my dear sister and my adorable niece set a more relaxed mindset for the day.
I am trying to be more mindful of my free time so I can actually enjoy it instead of wishing there was more of it or it was at a different time. I only had Sunday off this week but making sure I wasn't getting stressed about all the stuff I had to get done in one day makes a big difference. Spending an hour this Sunday with my feet up outside, having a coffee with my dear sister and my adorable niece set a more relaxed mindset for the day.
Andrea Prince
Tai Chi Inspired Training Day 4,5 June 23,24
Day 4: Today is Sunday and I have Sundays as a total rest from physical Kung Fu.
Day 5: Monday and a whole new week
This morning was Kung Fu class and the 2 things that stuck out for me the most was 1) lower my bow stance for my kicks and 2) relax my shoulder and I could actually feel the pull of the thrust punch. Total awesome coolness. I tried to hone that in for the other hand techniques we did. However I was thrilled that I actually felt the pull of the punch. Yay!!
Before my daily training I got present and grounded myself in so that I could very much pay attention to what my body was doing and feeling. Plus it also diverted my mind from thinking about my blog. I also moved everything to the mats instead of doing my kicks in front of the mirror because with the mirror, I am relying by sight to spot a misalignment. Whereas by tuning in, I should be able to feel when something isn't quite right. That's the theory anyway.
Kicks: I noticed that I can hold my crane stance longer and that my left leg is less wanting to roll in. That is good! During the transition from bow to crane stance, I noticed that the movement that is stronger (and easier) is to sink down slightly and slide a bit forward while lifting the back leg instead of pulling the leg into position.
Core: While I was working my core I visualized the muscles pulling in like a pulley. That seemed to isolate the movement. The movements are not big and they are intense. As for shoulders, my right is a bit cranky today, so I focused on stretching.
Forms: Another week with Awakening The Dragon. The kneeling stance didn't bother me as much and I was able to be more "comfy" longer. I wasn't able to settle into this form, maybe because it's later in the afternoon after a day of Costco and errands. We'll see what happens tomorrow. I did play around with my fan in my left hand. Definitely bamboo for now as 1) bamboo is much lighter 2) I scare myself too much with the tosses with the steel fan. Had to try though.
I also chose to incorporate journaling 5 things that I like about the I Ho Chuan Snake team. I'm not sure as of yet as to whether I will make those public or not.
As a side note, I tested my non-dairy ice cream recipe in chocolate for fudgsicles by adding in cocoa, black cocoa and a tablespoon of Kahlua. Let's just say SLURP, and that the Jelly Belly Popsicle moulds from Canadian Tire and I will become very good friends.
Sherri Donohue
My Blog
Day 5: Monday and a whole new week
This morning was Kung Fu class and the 2 things that stuck out for me the most was 1) lower my bow stance for my kicks and 2) relax my shoulder and I could actually feel the pull of the thrust punch. Total awesome coolness. I tried to hone that in for the other hand techniques we did. However I was thrilled that I actually felt the pull of the punch. Yay!!
Before my daily training I got present and grounded myself in so that I could very much pay attention to what my body was doing and feeling. Plus it also diverted my mind from thinking about my blog. I also moved everything to the mats instead of doing my kicks in front of the mirror because with the mirror, I am relying by sight to spot a misalignment. Whereas by tuning in, I should be able to feel when something isn't quite right. That's the theory anyway.
Kicks: I noticed that I can hold my crane stance longer and that my left leg is less wanting to roll in. That is good! During the transition from bow to crane stance, I noticed that the movement that is stronger (and easier) is to sink down slightly and slide a bit forward while lifting the back leg instead of pulling the leg into position.
Core: While I was working my core I visualized the muscles pulling in like a pulley. That seemed to isolate the movement. The movements are not big and they are intense. As for shoulders, my right is a bit cranky today, so I focused on stretching.
Forms: Another week with Awakening The Dragon. The kneeling stance didn't bother me as much and I was able to be more "comfy" longer. I wasn't able to settle into this form, maybe because it's later in the afternoon after a day of Costco and errands. We'll see what happens tomorrow. I did play around with my fan in my left hand. Definitely bamboo for now as 1) bamboo is much lighter 2) I scare myself too much with the tosses with the steel fan. Had to try though.
I also chose to incorporate journaling 5 things that I like about the I Ho Chuan Snake team. I'm not sure as of yet as to whether I will make those public or not.
As a side note, I tested my non-dairy ice cream recipe in chocolate for fudgsicles by adding in cocoa, black cocoa and a tablespoon of Kahlua. Let's just say SLURP, and that the Jelly Belly Popsicle moulds from Canadian Tire and I will become very good friends.
Sherri Donohue
My Blog
'66 Coupe To Be Exact
This is the last week of Onoway classes, and I feel bad saying this but I'm relieved. Nick and I are trying to find a weekend where the two of us can tear out the transmission in the Mustang, but so far I haven't been around. Seems to be the same story with everyone, eh?
Still, I enjoy the time I spend at the kwoon and I enjoy my classes. I wouldn't be putting in this much time if I didn't. I'm comfortable at the kwoon, its my home when I can't be home. I can curl up on the couch and read a book and not feel strange doing it. I can fling around the spade before class and not be worried about which neighbor will see me. All I need is my dog and some dirty laundry and I'm home. Oh wait- there's always dirty laundry in my bag (it eats socks) and Chloe's been there a few times now.
We have to remember these things when where in a crunch like this. I feel the pressure, but at the same time its nice to have a goal. Don't let the stress of the situation ruin a good thing, remember why you decided to start this roller coaster in the first place. Take pride in what you're accomplishing, and make the kwoon your home. Fresh cut flowers do wonders for a home, do they not?
http://dogsthinking.blogspot.ca/
Still, I enjoy the time I spend at the kwoon and I enjoy my classes. I wouldn't be putting in this much time if I didn't. I'm comfortable at the kwoon, its my home when I can't be home. I can curl up on the couch and read a book and not feel strange doing it. I can fling around the spade before class and not be worried about which neighbor will see me. All I need is my dog and some dirty laundry and I'm home. Oh wait- there's always dirty laundry in my bag (it eats socks) and Chloe's been there a few times now.
We have to remember these things when where in a crunch like this. I feel the pressure, but at the same time its nice to have a goal. Don't let the stress of the situation ruin a good thing, remember why you decided to start this roller coaster in the first place. Take pride in what you're accomplishing, and make the kwoon your home. Fresh cut flowers do wonders for a home, do they not?
http://dogsthinking.blogspot.ca/
Sunday, June 23, 2013
Still going
Been working hard on my goals and towards mastery. Kung fu has taken a back burner for now but keeping up with push ups and sit ups.
http://www.wchoy74.blogspot.ca/2013/06/still-going.html?m=1
http://www.wchoy74.blogspot.ca/2013/06/still-going.html?m=1
Win win
I have been coaching this Baseball team for almost 2 months and we have been mercy'd every game. That means we have been down by 10 runs by the 4th inning. It's been rough , the kids were starting to get really down about it , not to mention the parents. We have had many small victories as a team but no actual win.
As coaches we take all the blame and it was starting to take its toll , even though winning is not the most important thing to me , it is important. It pushes us to be better and try harder , in this instance it's about ball , but it can be related to the rest of life as well. The wanting to be better makes us try harder and pushes out the mediocrity.
The reasons we were not winning are many but the pressures off now , we Won. We can move forward now knowing we have what it takes to win. Finally. Persistence definitely paid off.
Scott Fuhr
Half off
Well one week until our Canada Day demo. I’ve changed my
form so will take this week full of hard work to keep it together in my head. I
basically halved it so it is more condensed for the weekend demo. Luckily it’s
easy to take things out instead of having to put things in. Do have to change a
few stances and such because of the way I need to face the audience. Fingers
crossed the weather will hold for the day of but again we should all come together
just fine. On another note, have to be thankful we haven’t had to experience the
devastation down south of us. A good friend of mine had to be evacuated and now
has around three feet of water in his basement. Lucky everyone got out safe,
amazing how we are still at the mercy of Mother Nature. Made a donation to help
those affected in Calgary today, nice to see all the support they have been
getting thus far.
Sifu Bryant
My Blog
I can't believe there is only one week left until the July first
demo. We have a lot of work to do in a short amount of time. I'm happy
to see some new faces in the demo, glad to see people stepping up. We
are going to need everyone at the practices this week to finalize
things. The dragon dance is coming along nicely. We are short on time
there too but things are going well so far.
It's been a crazy couple of weeks for me. It was my fathers birthday last weekend as well as fathers day. Today was my moms birthday. Between work, Kung Fu and family activities I feel like I've just barely managed to keep everything under control.
Sifu Jesse Wetter
http://liveforeverordieintheattempt.blogspot.ca/
It's been a crazy couple of weeks for me. It was my fathers birthday last weekend as well as fathers day. Today was my moms birthday. Between work, Kung Fu and family activities I feel like I've just barely managed to keep everything under control.
Sifu Jesse Wetter
http://liveforeverordieintheattempt.blogspot.ca/
Church going
Had a nice day with Julia today. We even went to church. One of my goals this year was to go to church every Sunday (52 times). I've been finding that really difficult though as I have to bring Julia. It's hard for her to stay focused and quiet for an hour or more. She really likes the music though. I think it's good to expose her. I would like her to grow up in the church like I did so I want to bring her more. It is hard to get going in the morning though. Bah!
But today I went, so yay!
Basic numbers: rest day so none
Acts of kindness: let my husband sleep in, organized a disastrous cupboard and ordered Julia a special case for our ipad so she can play with it too.
Today I consumed: a peanut butter bagel, half an apple, a tims breakfast sandwich and hashbrown, 2 hotdogs, a cup of tea, 6 glasses of water, 1 coffee and 1 beer.
crazy week and demo stuff
I did a lot this week but nothing to out of the ordinary, other than
getting my first aid and taking care of the house for a week while my
parents were gone and helping my aunt debbie. I had to take care of a
dog who refused to eat and drink, and never asked to be let out; i had
to let him out on purpose just to make sure he never had an accident in
the house, but he did of course. My dog always asks my parent to go
outside but never me, even if i am the only one. Also i have had to help
my aunt twice this week. First was transporting a bbq from my place to
her place; then i had to help transport a fridge onto her place, which
was all good. The neat part of my week was learning first aid with two
of my fellow classmates from kung fu. I got to learn a little bit more
about them and felt like it bonded us a little bit closer together,
which was neat. out of the three of us i got the lowest score it was
100% , 90 something%, and me 90%. I felt like i could of done better,
but it was my first time ever learning that stuff. i just want to
mention that this year for demo practice and putting together a demo for
a function seems a little more forced and a little unnatural. so
instead of people doing it because they want to, and of course because
we have to do a least 3 of them. It feels like people might be doing it
because they are being forced to or guilted into doing it rather then
being inspired to to it and maybe change themselves in the process. I am
not saying this is everyone, but rather some. I understand that
sometimes to get stuff done or to push someone beyond there limits, some
of this tough love has to be done. but is there another way to do
it?...... I personally don't know. I know we have to cram into a demo
really quick right now because we have a very limited time before the
demo actually has to be done an it has to look good. But for maybe
afterwards or next time, is there a better way to put a demo together?
Is it time? Is it leadership? Or is it the people themselves? I know
last year felt very natural and even not so forced. Maybe we had the
leadership? the time? and the people in the right frame of mind, but
that was last year, and we even started it late. So we must focus on
this year, I think we are doing amazing this year to build demos in as
little time as we are doing, is amazing, but it just feel like we are
missing something and i can honestly say that i can't tell what that is.
The people are still awesome, the people are dedicated, the only
difference is that we are doing it on so short of time, but should that
really effect the atmosphere of the demo? I don't know, i am just
asking. this is only my second year in doing this but i still truly
believe that i will get that feeling back, maybe it is the time or
whatever else it might be, because if there is a least one thing that
the I ho Chuan has taught me from last year is to keep being perseveres.
Even knowing when times feel tough it always gets better without the
bad there would be no good. So i guess that is my little rant for now
and sorry if it is a little hard to understand what i wrote here, i
really suck at where to put the proper punctuations and all that.
227 lbs
Sihing Langner
227 lbs
Sihing Langner
Saturday, June 22, 2013
Getting older
Today we had my birthday celebration. I'm turning 29 this year. I have to say, since I had cancer and all, I'm not scared of getting old anymore. Getting old is a blessing. I'm proud that I've turned another year older. It was another great year that I got to spend with my family and friends.
I know getting old bothers some people....turning grey, getting wrinkles, etc., but it shouldn't. Be thankful that the Lord has blessed you with so many years.
Getting older is also good for your Kung-Fu....or at least it can be. As you get older, you lose the strength and speed of your youth and instead you have to rely on timing and technique. As a result, you must improve. That's why older martial artists are so awesome...or at least can be awesome.
So ya...getting older has a lot of perks.
Enjoy it!
Basic numbers: only did 51 pushups today:(
Acts of kindness: brought my dog with us to get wood, cuddled my cat, gave my dog a treat, complimented a friends baking.
Today I consumed: half a bagel with peanut butter, a cheese bun, half a peanut butter and jam sandwich, a hotdog, a cheeseburger with some salad, 3 birthday cupcakes, a bite of cake, 2 cups of tea, 2 beer and 6 glasses of water.
I know getting old bothers some people....turning grey, getting wrinkles, etc., but it shouldn't. Be thankful that the Lord has blessed you with so many years.
Getting older is also good for your Kung-Fu....or at least it can be. As you get older, you lose the strength and speed of your youth and instead you have to rely on timing and technique. As a result, you must improve. That's why older martial artists are so awesome...or at least can be awesome.
So ya...getting older has a lot of perks.
Enjoy it!
Basic numbers: only did 51 pushups today:(
Acts of kindness: brought my dog with us to get wood, cuddled my cat, gave my dog a treat, complimented a friends baking.
Today I consumed: half a bagel with peanut butter, a cheese bun, half a peanut butter and jam sandwich, a hotdog, a cheeseburger with some salad, 3 birthday cupcakes, a bite of cake, 2 cups of tea, 2 beer and 6 glasses of water.
Tai Chi Inspired Training Day 3 June 22
I can feel a weather change floating around in air. In my gluten days this would trigger a headache/migraine. Now it's the feeling that something is "fuzzy", a little off base. Believe me, I'm very happy with this version.
Tai Chi class this morning. I noticed that when I am thinking my breath also travels to my head. Why are these two things connected? What if I could think AND breathe at the same time? Get the gum going and I'd be a real genius. However, back to the class. Because this is my first year in Tai Chi and I'm still learning the form, I'm very much thinking about not only what move is next, but what the move entails. All in due time. I have noticed that I am picking up when something isn't quite right and that is good. When I got home I carried on to my daily training. I noticed that my mind was very much concerned about remembering what I'm going to say in this blog. Need to turn the dial down on the mind and up with the "trust that the right thing will leap from the keyboard and onto the screen."
Kicks: I moved from the hardwood floor and onto the red mats that used to be in the Kwoon. The red mats have more sponginess and I'm thinking that will help build muscle strength and stability. Still sticking with the crane, I noticed that the inside of my left leg was doing "work" and that is good. My breathing was decent and I noticed my shoulders crawling up to my ears, so I lowered my guards a bit to help relax my shoulders and ease my breathing. Amazing how that all works. I'm noticing how much my core is engaged when moving into and staying in the crane. I did notice that I could hold the stance longer with greater ease.
Core: My core is saying that's it's been worked, not a bad thing. Today I held my crunch (front, sides, and lower) and breathed into my pelvic area while holding. Similar idea to the plank, but in a different position. To me, this felt like my core was engaged and not constricted. Not long before the shaking kicked in so this tells me this is a good exercise. While I was down on the mats, I stretched out my shoulders using both palms up and palms down. There is a difference. I also did arm raises by engaging the particular muscles (palm up and palm down) paying close attention as to how my shoulder was doing and if I heard a click, I adjusted position. I believe I was in the "enough" zone.
Forms: The biggie here is that I sat longer in the Awakening the Dragon kneeling position than what I could all week. Yay! The area just above the tops of my feet don't like to be stretched that way, but my legs are much more loose. I got the sense just to stay here and "be" for a bit. Relax and breathe, so I did. After I shifted position to sitting, I did Awakening the Dragon letting the chi take me to where I'm to go. I noticed my upper body got into the waving flow of things, which is probably what I need right now.
Speaking of forms, I am dreaming up a fan form for my left hand. As I was playing with my red bamboo fan last night, I noticed that some moves were easier with my left hand and that the fan didn't feel foreign so that is good. Dennis reminded me that I am quite ambidextrous so this might come easier than I think. True. As I playing around with the form in my head, the important decisions must be made: bamboo or steel, and what color? And yes, color does make a difference. Saw a pretty yellow fan. :)
Sherri Donohue
My Blog
Tai Chi class this morning. I noticed that when I am thinking my breath also travels to my head. Why are these two things connected? What if I could think AND breathe at the same time? Get the gum going and I'd be a real genius. However, back to the class. Because this is my first year in Tai Chi and I'm still learning the form, I'm very much thinking about not only what move is next, but what the move entails. All in due time. I have noticed that I am picking up when something isn't quite right and that is good. When I got home I carried on to my daily training. I noticed that my mind was very much concerned about remembering what I'm going to say in this blog. Need to turn the dial down on the mind and up with the "trust that the right thing will leap from the keyboard and onto the screen."
Kicks: I moved from the hardwood floor and onto the red mats that used to be in the Kwoon. The red mats have more sponginess and I'm thinking that will help build muscle strength and stability. Still sticking with the crane, I noticed that the inside of my left leg was doing "work" and that is good. My breathing was decent and I noticed my shoulders crawling up to my ears, so I lowered my guards a bit to help relax my shoulders and ease my breathing. Amazing how that all works. I'm noticing how much my core is engaged when moving into and staying in the crane. I did notice that I could hold the stance longer with greater ease.
Core: My core is saying that's it's been worked, not a bad thing. Today I held my crunch (front, sides, and lower) and breathed into my pelvic area while holding. Similar idea to the plank, but in a different position. To me, this felt like my core was engaged and not constricted. Not long before the shaking kicked in so this tells me this is a good exercise. While I was down on the mats, I stretched out my shoulders using both palms up and palms down. There is a difference. I also did arm raises by engaging the particular muscles (palm up and palm down) paying close attention as to how my shoulder was doing and if I heard a click, I adjusted position. I believe I was in the "enough" zone.
Forms: The biggie here is that I sat longer in the Awakening the Dragon kneeling position than what I could all week. Yay! The area just above the tops of my feet don't like to be stretched that way, but my legs are much more loose. I got the sense just to stay here and "be" for a bit. Relax and breathe, so I did. After I shifted position to sitting, I did Awakening the Dragon letting the chi take me to where I'm to go. I noticed my upper body got into the waving flow of things, which is probably what I need right now.
Speaking of forms, I am dreaming up a fan form for my left hand. As I was playing with my red bamboo fan last night, I noticed that some moves were easier with my left hand and that the fan didn't feel foreign so that is good. Dennis reminded me that I am quite ambidextrous so this might come easier than I think. True. As I playing around with the form in my head, the important decisions must be made: bamboo or steel, and what color? And yes, color does make a difference. Saw a pretty yellow fan. :)
Sherri Donohue
My Blog
Friday, June 21, 2013
Basic numbers
Basic numbers: tai chi: 3, broadsword:7, pushups: 204, crunches: 202, kicks: 208
Acts of kindness: wished the secretary at the docs office a good day, let someone ahead of me in traffic, made my husband a lunch and made him breakfast.
Today I consumed: a piece of peach pie, a bagel with cream cheese, a roast beef sandwich, 2 bananas, an apple, some graham crackers and some noodles with toast. I drank a cup of coffee, 3 cups of tea and 9 glasses of water.
Tai Chi Inspired Training Day 2 June 21
Right from the get-go I noticed that I was breathing from the neck up and the rest of me was in an "alert" tenseness. Since that is not at all effective nor does it encourage flow or healing in my shoulder, let's adjust that one, shall we?
I started with the modified lunges in otoyu (spelling?) stance that we do in our Tai Chi warmup to bring my breathing down into my body. After I accepted that my feet are feet and that they are the perfect size and shape for me, I noticed that my left knee wants to roll in to compensate for the weight load, a side-effect of years of sliding from the hack in curling. I kept doing the lunges until it was enough making sure my stance form was correct. "Picking fruit" stretches out my shoulder and that both feels good and says "hello". Now that I am more grounded, I'll carry on.
Kicks: still continuing with going in and out of crane very slowly. My thought is that I am building the strength and stability in my knees (especially left) by going slow and being sure of each movement. Right now I'm sensing that it's more important to be stable and strong than to have a high crane. I closed my eyes for a few and images of glass pieces came up. I think I'm being hailed.
Situps/core: when I work my core I visualize the muscles contracting and pushing out the breath. I take each move to the maximum and then release. My focus here is that ONLY the core are doing the work, the rest of my body is along for the ride. I noticed that I can get into the good breathing here. My stopping point is when my core says "enough already!!" and that's after I have worked upper, lower, and obliques, basically the whole shootin' match.
Forms: still with Awakening the Dragon. Being in the kneeling position of this form is trying, but I'm persisting as I believe it's stretching out what needs to be stretched in my legs. I'm breathing through what feels uncomfortable. I let go of the number structure of the form and let the energy/chi take me to where I needed to go. The next go-around (I switched positions to sitting with legs loosely crossed in front) I tuned into the colors and again, let it take me where I needed to go. At the end of the form, I was folded forward giving my hamstrings and glutes a much needed stretch. Felt good.
I realize that I have distance to go for getting present and tuning in when it comes to training. I am sensing that I will know my body and movement on a whole new level or 20.
Sherri Donohue
My Blog
I started with the modified lunges in otoyu (spelling?) stance that we do in our Tai Chi warmup to bring my breathing down into my body. After I accepted that my feet are feet and that they are the perfect size and shape for me, I noticed that my left knee wants to roll in to compensate for the weight load, a side-effect of years of sliding from the hack in curling. I kept doing the lunges until it was enough making sure my stance form was correct. "Picking fruit" stretches out my shoulder and that both feels good and says "hello". Now that I am more grounded, I'll carry on.
Kicks: still continuing with going in and out of crane very slowly. My thought is that I am building the strength and stability in my knees (especially left) by going slow and being sure of each movement. Right now I'm sensing that it's more important to be stable and strong than to have a high crane. I closed my eyes for a few and images of glass pieces came up. I think I'm being hailed.
Situps/core: when I work my core I visualize the muscles contracting and pushing out the breath. I take each move to the maximum and then release. My focus here is that ONLY the core are doing the work, the rest of my body is along for the ride. I noticed that I can get into the good breathing here. My stopping point is when my core says "enough already!!" and that's after I have worked upper, lower, and obliques, basically the whole shootin' match.
Forms: still with Awakening the Dragon. Being in the kneeling position of this form is trying, but I'm persisting as I believe it's stretching out what needs to be stretched in my legs. I'm breathing through what feels uncomfortable. I let go of the number structure of the form and let the energy/chi take me to where I needed to go. The next go-around (I switched positions to sitting with legs loosely crossed in front) I tuned into the colors and again, let it take me where I needed to go. At the end of the form, I was folded forward giving my hamstrings and glutes a much needed stretch. Felt good.
I realize that I have distance to go for getting present and tuning in when it comes to training. I am sensing that I will know my body and movement on a whole new level or 20.
Sherri Donohue
My Blog
Who is captain of this sinking ship?
Good morning! There is a seven course breakfast awaiting you. Your feet are cold? Well here are some extra fuzzy slippers. You
don’t need to go to work today. I have paid all the bills for the month. Here is your fishing rod. Your chauffeur
awaits in the limo outside to take you to any trout stream you wish.
vincekrebs.blogspot.com
I step out onto the porch but something is dreadfully wrong. It’s dark out, and snowy and cold. BAAAAAAM! Frozen
steel toe work boot kicks me in the backside and knocks me off of the slippery
porch, bounce off the frozen oak tree and land in a patch of prickly rose
bushes. Yup, it’s June again and this is
the transition I knew was coming. No
more face time in class, no chance of taking in practice and demo’s, no more
meeting team mates to knock off a personal goal.
So here I lie on my back, goose egg on my forehead, prickles stuck in my
neck, snowy cold ground surprisingly comforting on my bruised backside. How long do I lie here and sulk. If I stay
too long I am likely to doze off and become a permanent popsicle.
Once again chopped from the nurture of the Kwoon and the team. It is
really easy to forget how to become self-sufficient. I have been laying here in the cold snow for
long enough, it’s time to change.
vincekrebs.blogspot.com
Thursday, June 20, 2013
Breaking the Wall
The dragon dance is progressing well, in my opinion and I'm also exited about the demo. I was working with Sifu Regier on our form and I think it is progressing very good. I'm nervous about the board breaking. I'm going to focus on my sequence for the next few days. It became a barrier that I need to break through.
http://csillag-stars.blogspot.ca/2013/06/breaking-wall.html
Good practice
Today's practice went pretty well. The dragon/lion dance is coming along. Everyone is working really hard and it shows. I'm glad that we've been having a good turnout these last couple of practices. Thanks to everyone who has been coming out.
Basic numbers: tai chi: 4, broadsword: 5, pushups, 204, crunches: 202, kicks: 208.
Acts of kindness: let someone ahead of me in traffic, made dinner for my in-laws, made small talk with a lady in a store.
Today I consumed: a bran muffin, some banana bread, half a banana, some leftover beef and biscuit stew and some lamb stew with peach pie. I drank 2 cups of tea and 8 glasses of water.
Daily Training Tai Chi Way Day 1 June 20
Right away I noticed my mind up in the rafters thinking about numbers/how much instead of being present to what I am doing. I did a few moves of Tai Chi to bring myself back down so that I could focus on the here and now.
Kicks: I'm starting right at the beginning with the crane stance and going back into the bow stance. All is done very slowly so that I can see what I'm doing (also feel). My left knee is more wobbly with this because of all of the years I spent curling (as in the ice sport) leaving my knee with uneven muscle strength. I noticed I held my breath during the kicks.
Core muscles: I focused directly on the core muscles moving very slowly and intently. I tuned into when my shoulder started to get involved and adjusted. I found my right side not as strong (just about though) as my left. Makes sense because when I played fastball, my swing was to the left.
Forms: I chose to start from the beginning and go with Awakening the Dragon. The seated position is challenging for me because my muscles are tight, but I held the position and got my quads to relax some. I really noticed that I've been so concerned with counting (as in 3 of this, 3 of that) that I didn't tune into the flow of the form. At one point I caught myself out of sequence and chuckled about it. I started to trust myself that I would know when to move to the next sequence and to start to really feel the flow. I think I will stay with this form for tomorrow.
Sherri Donohue
My Blog
Kicks: I'm starting right at the beginning with the crane stance and going back into the bow stance. All is done very slowly so that I can see what I'm doing (also feel). My left knee is more wobbly with this because of all of the years I spent curling (as in the ice sport) leaving my knee with uneven muscle strength. I noticed I held my breath during the kicks.
Core muscles: I focused directly on the core muscles moving very slowly and intently. I tuned into when my shoulder started to get involved and adjusted. I found my right side not as strong (just about though) as my left. Makes sense because when I played fastball, my swing was to the left.
Forms: I chose to start from the beginning and go with Awakening the Dragon. The seated position is challenging for me because my muscles are tight, but I held the position and got my quads to relax some. I really noticed that I've been so concerned with counting (as in 3 of this, 3 of that) that I didn't tune into the flow of the form. At one point I caught myself out of sequence and chuckled about it. I started to trust myself that I would know when to move to the next sequence and to start to really feel the flow. I think I will stay with this form for tomorrow.
Sherri Donohue
My Blog
Schedule (it is all in the schedule)
Juggling family, Kung Fu and life in general can be an art at times. My family must think I am nuts, (some do) I am always running from one thing to the next, never having an evening off. Most time I am able to make it work without allot of conflict due to proper scheduling. I put everything into a calendar on the computer which is linked to my phone; this has helped me keep everything straight. I always have to refer to my calendar before I can commit to doing anything new and often than not, I do have to decline an invitation for a get together. Yet it is not flawless, life tends to throw the occasional curve ball at me (I think it does that just to let me know that life still goes on out there and it is not going to be controlled by my schedule) and I must be the one to adapt.
At the beginning of this I Ho Chuan year I committed to attend every I Ho Chuan Team meeting and to date I have attended three and miss two of the meetings. Now that is not a very good track record and as far as I am concerned, it is unacceptable for me.
I have learned two things from missing those meetings;
1. Don’t volunteer for something if there is no date set. (first meeting missed)
2. Family or care facilities do not consult my calendar when they schedule activities. (second meeting missed)
Sorry guys for missing the last two meetings.
Domestic?!
As part of my acts of kindness I have been making coffee for everyone at work and doing dishes once in awhile. I've also started making my lunches and cooking which was one of my personal goals. Today one of the guys said he was shocked at how domesticated I've become within the past month and asked if I was pregnant. This made me laugh pretty hard.
Yesterday I got my forms stripe. I've finally learned Long 1 and am managing somewhat of a shoulder roll in Sei Chein (sp?) I found Long 1 pretty hard to learn for some reason but I can finally do it, now I just have to make it smooth so its not so awkward looking.
I'm starting to do my pushups and situps before class, I'm still a bit embarrassed doing it, but I'm doing it anyway. I'm hoping to upgrade to practicing my forms before class by the end of next month. It doesn't seem like a big deal, but its a start to get used to doing things with people around. I haven't yet done my ropedart form in front of my family but will by the end of the summer.
I found a chiropractor I like, I go see him next week. I'm hoping he can fix me.
I leave you with one of my favorite musicians;
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mc27KW4l7O0
Yesterday I got my forms stripe. I've finally learned Long 1 and am managing somewhat of a shoulder roll in Sei Chein (sp?) I found Long 1 pretty hard to learn for some reason but I can finally do it, now I just have to make it smooth so its not so awkward looking.
I'm starting to do my pushups and situps before class, I'm still a bit embarrassed doing it, but I'm doing it anyway. I'm hoping to upgrade to practicing my forms before class by the end of next month. It doesn't seem like a big deal, but its a start to get used to doing things with people around. I haven't yet done my ropedart form in front of my family but will by the end of the summer.
I found a chiropractor I like, I go see him next week. I'm hoping he can fix me.
I leave you with one of my favorite musicians;
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mc27KW4l7O0
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)