My grand master todo list probably has 1000 items on it. My projects list probably has 30 items on the go right now. When I setup my daily list I often put 15 items on it. I rarely get to the bottom of this list and I don’t imagine ever getting to the bottom of the 1000 item one. Nor Read More …
In partner dance our physical connection with another dancer can be a point of support, of direction, of communication, and of energy transference. All of these connections have tone, they create a connection from our partner directly to our core. They receive the presence of our partner and give our physical presence in return. However a connection does not need Read More …
When you’re learning a new technique you need to give yourself the time and space to build a solid mechanical grounding. I recommend a three stage process to building this first level of proficiency: Stage 1. Crispness Break down a complex mechanical motion into component parts and then execute each component as a distinct and crisp action. In swordplay break Read More …
Our mind is constantly monitoring our safety and security both emotional and physical. Fast reactions to surprising situations can provide us with the adrenaline, reflexes, and responsiveness that we need to create safety. As astronaut Chris Hadfield shared in his recent TED talk at Ted Vancouver, these animal responses can also make things much much worse — especially in space. Read More …
Bluntness is information-centric communication. Sharing only the feedback without the social wrapping is high value communication. Lots of content packed into a short space of time. However delivered without the right structure and blunt information can destroy receptivity and lead to a low level of information transfer. Bluntness is not demeaning or personal. It is not about hierarchy, position, or Read More …
I’m feeling very vulnerable today. This feeling dovetails well with a conversation I had with one of my swordplay students last night. In the conversation my student and I talked about dealing with nerves in tournament and performance environments. I told him that I still get nervous when I compete, even though I have competed hundreds of times. I still Read More …
This afternoon we finished up our final day of training for the Duelling Arts Rapier Tournament at the Vancouver Club. This is part tournament and part spectacle; a hand picked roster of 8 senior Duello students will be fencing in a series of matches over the course of an evening of fine dining and cocktails, all with a Victorian flare. In amongst Read More …
Last week we began looking at cold performance as part of our training. Your cold performance is the immediate starting level of your body and mind when you first move from a non-martial to martial state. This week we’re looking at the ideas you should consider to prepare your body for high functioning and safe cold performances. Training the Body Read More …
Impulsive reaction is faster than thoughtful responsiveness. There are times when this speed of return can be beneficial. This thought-free reaction to a situation is what allows you to come back with a fast quip, avoid danger by intuiting a dangerous situation before it results, or gives you the emotional energy you need to stand up for yourself when you’re Read More …
This is part of an exploration of Power, Partnership, and Symmetry. In romance so many seek a relationship of balance and symmetry where the needs, interests, and pursuits of both parties match in every way. When courting, a delicate balance is often maintained where each party ventures forth enough to intrigue but fears to offer too much lest they be taken Read More …