Chris Smith's Martial Arts Blog:

Chris Smith owns and teaches at Tiger Martial Arts in Aptos

As fall becomes winter and the north swells begin their annual show, I am taking the time to reflect upon what it means to be a lifelong martial artist. "Lifelong" is a simple enough term to ponder upon, yet the reality of changing times, bodies and energies is far more intricate. I can only attest to my own path in life and the martial arts , as these factors are as diverse as any known to man.

My martial arts journey began in the city of brotherly love, Philadelphia. At the ripe age of fifteen , I was introduced to the art of Tae Kwon Do. This was approximately 1980, which meant no safety gear. We would train until we could wring our gis out. This was a period of of pure , unadulterated physicality. No mind body experience. Strictly body, all power and force. This period is similar to the time when a seed sprouts through the surface and first feels the suns warm rays of light.

There's a certain sentimentality towards the undying enthusiasm of the young. As we age , we can sit back and see from broader perspective. There are many ways to achieve our goals and as times change ,then so does our approach to these milestones.

Upon entering college,  I naturally gravitated towards the physical, choosing Physical Education as my course of study. During this time  the lessons learned began to necessitate a new direction. No longer was a strictly physical approach possible. My heart, mind and full intention of spirit were forced to come into play. There was much to be accomplished, and force alone would not suffice. Conscious breathing, training, working and planning all merged as I navigated the halls of higher education. 

My martial arts training was now out of the garage and into the training hall. That martial arts education now subsequently spilled over into all of my being. The traits of persistence, humbleness, and the setting of long and short term goals became of tantamount importance. My martial arts lifestyle enabled me to blaze a trail towards graduation.  This phase is the time when the tree is ready to bear fruit, a time that is bursting with potential.