Martial arts, especially those styles that originated in Okinawa (karate and kobudo), are based on two main important messages: "respect for each other" and "do no harm." Unlike the generally accepted visual image of karate as an aggressive martial art, the basis of Okinawan karate is originally a system of non-violence and the ability to get along with others.
Starting your child in Okinawan karate does not open the door to aggression, it opens the door to building solid self-esteem and self-confidence. Students learn that respect for others as a priority naturally leads to respect for oneself. This wonderful philosophy is often at odds with what our children are learning now. We have become obsessed with the idea of leadership, "me first" is a mentality that very often leads to emotional and psychological ill health of young people. In addition to building confidence and self-esteem, practicing Okinawan karate offers many other benefits.
Once a child is imbued with the spirit of karate, he can follow this path throughout his adult life. It can become a way of life, unlike sports sections where you rarely see athletes after 30.