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Overview
The nature and origin of the world's martial arts differ greatly, yet all have one thing in common -- mental strength. Each martial art insists that its students train to utilize the power of the mind to maximum effect. Indeed, Oriental martial arts (like kung fu and karate) are well known for the great emphasis they put on the training of the mind as well as the body.Courage and bravery are qualities everyone expects to be associated with martial arts, but there are many subtle qualities that can be nurtured through proper study and practice such as courtesy, tolerance, confidence, dignity, and loyalty. Because training unfolds in a physical way, martial artists are able to encourage a "healthy body, healthy mind" attitude within their chosen discipline.
Editorials
Children's Literature
The mental aspects of various martial arts are examined in this book from the "Martial and Fighting Arts" series. Chapter One, "The Nonphysical Aims of Martial Arts," explains the vital part that mental discipline plays in the martial arts, including an examination of the different mental exercises practiced in different parts of the world. Chapter Two, "Intelligence Grows in a Healthy Mind," first explores the mental discipline of Samurai and monks and nuns, then explains the art of Zanshin and Zen. Although the author himself admits that Zanshin is a difficult concept, he explains it in easy-to-understand terms (boiling it down to "The Three C's: Concentration, Calculation, and Communication). Chapter Three, "Moving Meditation: Solo Forms," describes different forms such as Sanshin, Tai Chi, Aikido, Taoism, and Wu-Wei. Numerous diagrams make the movement descriptions easy to understand. Chapter Four, "Pushing Hands," describes the history, theory, and movements used in pushing hands. A glossary and description of equipment is also included in this must-read for any child interested in martial arts. 2003, Mason Crest, Ages 10 up.— Amie Rose Rotruck
Book Details
Published
April 1, 2005
Publisher
Mason Crest Publishers
Pages
96
Format
Hardcover
ISBN
9781590843949