Siesan

Who was he?

Was he real?

Why does it matter?

 Japan, which is considered the birthplace of Karate. The exact history and lineage of Seisan Kata can be challenging to trace with precision due to the oral and secretive nature of traditional martial arts transmission. However, it is thought to have been influenced by various Chinese martial arts forms and was adapted and modified by Okinawan Karate masters over centuries.

The name "Seisan" itself can be translated in different ways, but it often refers to the number 13. Some practitioners interpret this as a reference to the 13 key movements or techniques within the kata. Others believe it may symbolize some spiritual or philosophical aspects related to the number 13. Regardless of its origin, Seisan Kata is highly regarded in Isshinryu Karate for its emphasis on fundamental principles of stance, posture, breathing, and striking techniques.

The Seisan Kata in Isshinryu, like many other martial arts katas, is typically performed as a solo routine where the practitioner goes through a series of choreographed movements and techniques. These movements include various strikes, blocks, kicks, and stances, all executed in a precise sequence. The goal of practicing Seisan Kata, as with other katas, is to develop and refine essential skills, such as balance, coordination, timing, and proper body mechanics.

Isshinryu Karate, founded by Tatsuo Shimabuku in the early 1950s, incorporates elements from various Okinawan martial arts styles, including Shorin-ryu and Goju-ryu, among others. Shimabuku adapted and integrated Seisan Kata into the Isshinryu curriculum, emphasizing its practicality and effectiveness in real-life self-defense situations.

It's important to note that while Seisan Kata has deep roots in Okinawan Karate, the history of the kata itself may vary slightly depending on the martial arts school or organization teaching it. Different interpretations and variations of Seisan Kata exist, reflecting the diversity and evolution of martial arts over time.

In conclusion, Seisan Kata is a significant and revered form within Isshinryu Karate, but it is not associated with a historical figure named "Siesan." Instead, it is a traditional Okinawan Karate kata with a rich history and deep significance in martial arts training. Practitioners of Isshinryu Karate, like those in other martial arts disciplines, continue to study and practice Seisan Kata as a means of honing their skills, understanding the principles of their art, and paying homage to the centuries-old tradition of Okinawan Karate.

                                                          

 

French Foot Fighter

 

Chat history

Étienne and Isabelle were a perfect match. They had met at a local foot fighting tournament where Étienne had been captivated by her grace and charm. Their love had grown stronger with each passing day, and soon they were inseparable.

But Étienne had a secret, a secret that he had never shared with anyone, not even Isabelle. It was a hidden treasure, a family heirloom, a necklace adorned with a rare and dazzling diamond known as the "Star of Provence." This precious gem had been passed down through generations of the Leclerc family, and Étienne was its current guardian. Legend had it that whoever possessed the Star of Provence would have boundless wealth and prosperity.

One sunny morning, as Étienne and Isabelle strolled through the bustling streets of their village, they noticed a group of mysterious strangers who seemed to be tracking their every move. Unease settled upon Étienne, and he realized that they were after the Star of Provence. Determined to protect his family's treasure, Étienne decided to embark on an adventurous journey to safeguard the diamond.

Leaving behind his beloved Isabelle, Étienne set off on a quest that would take him across the picturesque landscapes of France. He traversed the sprawling vineyards of Bordeaux, the majestic peaks of the Alps, and the enchanting forests of the Loire Valley, all the while outwitting his pursuers with his incredible foot fighting skills and cunning wit.

Throughout his journey, Étienne encountered a cast of colorful characters, including a wise old winemaker who offered him sage advice, a mischievous band of gypsy musicians who provided him shelter and entertainment, and a brave young shepherd who taught him the true meaning of selflessness.

As the days turned into weeks and the weeks into months, Étienne's heart ached for Isabelle, and he longed to reunite with his beloved wife. Yet, he couldn't return until he was certain that the Star of Provence was safe from those who sought to claim it.

Finally, after a long and perilous journey, Étienne uncovered the hidden location where the diamond had been safely stashed away for centuries. With a heart full of relief and gratitude, he clutched the Star of Provence in his hand, knowing that he had fulfilled his duty as its guardian.

With the treasure secured, Étienne made his way back home, his heart brimming with joy at the thought of reuniting with Isabelle. Little did he know that she had been on her own adventure, searching for him across the French countryside.

Their paths crossed on a warm summer evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow on the fields of lavender. Étienne and Isabelle, their faces radiant with happiness, embraced each other, their love stronger than ever. And as they gazed at the Star of Provence, now safely restored to its rightful place, they knew that their adventure had brought them even closer together.

Étienne and Isabelle returned to their village as heroes, their love story celebrated throughout Provence. They lived a long and happy life, cherishing each moment together and the adventures that had shaped their love. The Star of Provence continued to shine brightly in their hearts, a symbol of their enduring love and the treasures they had found in each other.

And so, in a circular tale of love, adventure, and hidden secrets, Étienne and Isabelle lived happily ever after, their story a testament to the enduring power of love and the importance of protecting the treasures that truly matter.

ChatGPT

                                       Easter & The Five Animals

Legendary Kung Fu is system that relates to five animals:

1) Tiger

2) Leopard

3) Crane

4) Dragon

5) Snake

These animals allegedly noted by Monks to be apex

predators for striking method and speed.

Two Cats make the list , the Dragon combines styles.

The Dragon leaps, seizes and scowls.

It's Easter weekend here in the states.  One can notice how high

the water levels are. Further, creeks have a blue-green hue

from the sunlight. Guess what appeared? Turtles! Not the huge

Tortoise of the Hare and Tortoise speed race fame. Cute, quick ones.

As one nears the creek bank to observe the sunning turtles

they scamper back into the creek. About as swift as our

Five Animal star strikes.

 Thus ends the Five Animal story

Happy Easter!

Teacher-Well, Aint Easy Being Green

 "Ain't easy being green" was famous quote of Kermit the Frog of Muppet Fame.

The program was designed to be entertaining yet educational for youth via

the television.

Many Black Belts are teachers. So lets discuss. One teacher had several years

experience . In commenting for a interview, Why  students having stuck with his Martial Arts expertise  and classes "I do not know why they still come?"

Perhaps he was being modest?

Another one, Ms. J loved teaching.  Her situation was she would go blank during

lectures. She had evidence of Cognitive Issues. Her student body thought

she should retire.

Students still bring their favorite teachers apples. This implies they are not

"Striking" or fussing over Class sizes but present always to get their treats.

Teachers have their favorite students. Just as students have their

favorite teachers. Teachers job is teaching one how to think. As Martial Arts

teachers,our students may get sent home for fighting. All they done is protected

themselves in most cases as they have been trained to do. So as teachers we must be supportive and linked in to our students.

Then there is this,

One thinker once said. "beware of giving advise, the wise do not need it-

fools will not heed it". Teaching ain't easy. But Kermit said it first and foremost "It ain't easy being green."

                                       

Kermit attributed to Marcela Rogante

Goldfinger & The Missing Digit

 Last time was story about the Karate Chop. Often one can allude to Hollywood with

influence  across T.V. and 40 foot theater screens.

Of the many characters we  hate -but- love to watch are Odd Job (Goldfinger) and Darth Vader

(Star Wars).

Goldfinger, the movie had a Karate Chopping character described in Ian Flemings book called

Odd Job. The James Bond themed story has a antagonist called Odd Job played by  wrestler Harold 

Sakata. What makes things interesting is Sakata is related to the Grand Toro wrestling team

family. Japanese infamous for Karate Chops in wrestling matches.

In Ian Flemings Goldfinger, the book describes Odd Job as having a lethal trained hand

with a digit missing on the Distal -little finger . The final movie cut focused more on Odd Job's  

de-capitating Top Hat.

Viewers go to movies to escape. There was no need to paint the actress's body  gold for the

Golden Girl Scene.Reports were she nearly perished from the stunt (suffocation). A mannequin could 

have  convinced viewers all the same. Besides we view life-like mannequins every day at Disneyland  

and in better department stores.

Goldfinger is the name of the greedy villain (Gert Forbe). The missing digit on the Knife Hand of

Odd Job  in the book is a lethal weapon. On the screen, the minor detail was not apparent after all.

                                                 

Chop Chop

 Last article we talked about Mike Tyson .One notorious and ;powerful of this era. There are many others

before and since. Name one, and soon another has grown and appears.

This brings us to the magical Karate Chop. From most accounts this mythical strike came from

1950's Wrestling Promoters. Then as now, we had a love-hate relation with Asia.

We hated them. We loved to watch them and be part of the culture.

The Karate Chop is a strike that descends downward on a persons neck.

By itself it is a respectable maneuver The neck, as well as the side of the head is not naturally

built for such trauma.

Chop Chop

Cody's story

During one of our early years Cody showed up  as a guest. He did not shine performing the

pre-arrangement routines . These we required time be spent on. He did not have much memory. He

stated he had a surprise for us at the end of class. He had toted some blocks into class.

These were the roofing tiles seen on expensive roofs. Then came his showtime.

He positioned his support pieces. Laid his cross tile piece then he struck downward yelped,  in

Karate Chop fashion. The tile broke. But Cody's hand bled from the broken glass like been at

a butchers shop. The tile , after all becomes sharp glass when broken.

What should have been a fun class turned into a catastrophe. because he bled everywhere.

The Karate Chop was like a new Dance Craze. every one wanted to try it .

No thanks to Hollywood for making appear so cool.

If it were the end-all it would have been mentioned historically one can argue.

For allowing Cody  to perform such a stunt. We were as dumb as he was.