Bruce Lee Philosophy
I'm still sorting out pictures from my trip to LA. Here's one taken at Richard Bustillo's school in the south bay. A special hand written note from Bruce Lee: "Simplicity is the end of art, the beginning of nature" 
I particularly like this statement as it clearly defines where I, and hopefully, YOU want to be. Whether in martial arts or in life, reaching a point where everything flows. To transition from TRYING to be a martial artist to just BEING a martial artist. When it comes to performing techniques they become as natural as walking. Strengthening your mind to a point where giving up is not an option. Acquiring the ability to focus and take action without giving in to distractions realizing control over your will is the supreme court over all departments of your mind. To understand your emotions are both negative and positive, learning to capitalize on the positive ones while transforming the negative emotions into useful action. Finding pleasure in intense exercise and being commited to it all your life. Stay on the path of mastery, self-conquest is the greatest of victories. Martial Artists are a special breed of people, be proud to call yourself one. Sibok M Labels: Attitude, Emotional State, Fang Shen Do, Mastery, Sibok Martin Patenaude
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The cost of not reminding yourself
Do you believe you and I already know what we have to do to be successful, healthy, happy, or fulfilled? I think so. You already know which foods you should avoid. You already know you should engage in daily exercise. If you're practicing martial arts, you know you always have to go back to basics, strengthening the foundational blocks of speed, power, flexibility, intensity and balance. You know success is a moving target and always calls for adjustments along the way. You know happiness comes from doing what you love and always striving for excellence in your life. You know you should spend time alone every day, to breathe, stretch, meditate, contemplate your future, and give gratitude for the opportunities that are coming to you. There's just one little problem. You forget. Why do you forget? Who knows really. Too comfortable? Distracted? Lazy? Too many excuses? Did you ever have this happen to you: You read a book and the author talks about something you used to do in the past but realize after reading it again you stopped doing that same thing months or even years ago? Maybe it was a certain exercise routine you used to do but you missed one day then another, and then days became months and so on until a whole year went by and you haven't worked out? Sometimes it's in relationships. You used to do such and such for your spouse or vice versa in the beginning of your relationship but then complacency settles in and you start taking them for granted, forgetting to keep that spark alive and fresh, leaving you wondering why you don't feel the love anymore. Stretching out of your comfort zone isn't easy, so is constantly treating your training or the relationships you foster with enthusiasm and the novelty that comes with all things new. I know there are alot of things I left out in this blog post as far as what you might need to be reminded of, but I think you "get" what I'm trying to say. Just take this blog post as a reminder and implement a system to regularly be reminded of what's important to you in your life. The cost of not reminding yourself regularly might cost you your health, your wealth, the love of your life, your drive and passion, your happiness, your clarity of thought knowing you'll never utter the words: "I could of been". Master Yourself, Sibok M Labels: Attitude, Enthusiasm, Fang Shen Do, Mastery, Sibok Martin Patenaude
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Training outside gives you...
Finally my Summer Training Program is officially on the way. With the warmer weather, our pool that is now open, and the rejuvenating effect of the sun, I'm taking my training outside for the next 5 months. And I encourage you to do the same. I always look forward to, during the summer months, the end of my workout where I sit on the deck quietly and go through my Stretching Routine. Bending and Twisting my body as I take in the sun and reflect on my life, enjoying every breath, being happy and grateful to have health, family and martial arts. When you add these 3 components (health, family, and martial arts) to your life, it's a winning combination. It keeps you grounded. It keeps you focused. It helps in keeping your priorities at the right place. It makes you appreciative and grateful. We're all looking to bring balance to our life (especially if you're on this list), and taking the time in the morning or in the evening to practice, as Bruce Lee wound say: "Your Gung-Fu". You can't help but feel calmer, in better control of your emotions and thoughts, you make better decisions, and you realize the importance of daily practice to reach the ever evasive level of Mastery. Take the time to enjoy the outdoors, if you want to know what kind of routine I follow after my workouts I suggest you take a look at this. Master Yourself, Sibok Martin P.S. Also I'd like to bring to your attention and especially my International Clients that we're now accepting Paypal at check out if you prefer that method of payment. We're constantly trying to serve you better! Labels: Family Classes, Fang Shen Do, Flexibility training, Health, Mastery, Streching
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You won't believe what happened this weekend
What a weekend! 150 of our closest friends gathered to celebrate my parent's 30th anniversary on Saturday. We got to see old pictures and video from the early days, celebrity congratulation videos from Gene LeBell, Don "The Dragon" Wilson, and Cecile Peoples to name a few. Like most of them said, It's not easy to stay in business in this business and anyone who can stay open and successful for 3o years deserves the utmost respect and applaud. Looking back at what my parents sacrificed, the trust they had in each other, the determination and guts it took to get started, the odds that were stacked up against them, I know it inspired everyone in the room to double their efforts whether in their martial art training, the goals they set, the love and care that goes into a relationship, to dare to dream big, to build something significant. My father's first student was also with us and sharing his experience. Presentations were made to the FSD owners for their effort and contribution to the system. My younger brother, Sifu Silvain received his 5th degree rank (Master Instructor) which consists of a black sash with one white stripe and 3 red ones. The white stripe represents LIFE and LEARNING. Specifically, "In Life I am always a learner", "Learning is a journey", "I am constantly trying to better myself". The red stripes represent KNOWLEDGE. The color red symbolizes FIRE. Fire like knowledge grows exponentially as you make your way through martial arts and life. What first started as a flicker then grows into a bushel of fire/knowledge. (3 stripes) This weekend I was also given a very high honor. Everyone knew except me. To my surprise my father presented me with the title of SIBOK. Which means "Uncle". The kind of "Protector" of the system placing me 2nd in command. You can imagine my reaction. I was speechless and full of emotion. Still people in the room captured how I felt about accepting this responsability and the commitment and dedication it took to get there. With my family all around me and my extended Kung-fu family watching, I respectfully accepted my father's request. I take my mission very seriously. "To inspire and lead by example". I hope you feel my sincerity through my words and the tips I offer you in my e-mails and blog posts, I want you to succeed and I'm willing to do everything in my power to give you the guidance and tools to do just that. You'll find all the tools I used to make my ascension to the level I'm at right here. Get started now. Master Yourself, Sibok M P.S. Again, Thank You Sijo, my mother, my family, my students, I'll make you all proud. Labels: Fang Shen Do, Mastery, Sibok, Sijo Jacques Patenaude
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Financial Crisis!
Everyone around us is screaming "Financial Crisis!" I say we have a "Personal Energy Crisis!" Do you POUNCE out of bed or ROLL out of it? How would you rate your energy level during the day? Half asleep, on Auto-Pilot, Average wattage or a Dynamo? Your body is constantly giving you signals. Are you avoiding the signals and getting a quick fix by drinking more sugar laced coffee and chugging energy drinks? If you're driving down the highway and a sign says: "Construction Work Ahead-Slow Down". Do you floor it or follow the instructions on the sign? Why would it be different when it comes to your own body. You don't need me to tell you what you should change as far as diet and activity goes. Chances are you already know what drains you of your energy. So why keep on following the same pattern? Who knows. One road just seems easier I guess while the other one requires some sacrifice and effort. Maybe the fact that Diabetes affects millions of kids and adults due to mal nutrition and lack of activity isn't enough, maybe when it hits a billion then maybe we'll see a change in people's lifestyles? Or maybe when coronary heart disaese affects someone you know or worse, affects YOU, then we'll all get involved in charity walks, fundraisers and being conscious of the choices we make. I hate being reactive. It goes against the principles we teach in our schools about personal protection. "A good defense is a strong offense" If you wait too long there's only so many punches you can dodge, deflect and absorb. Same thing with your health. There's only so many treatments, operations, and drugs you can take before you come to the conclusion that putting your health first, reading labels on the food you buy, and staying active, should be a top priority. Temptations are all around you, throughout your day, be one of the few that actually puts in practice 2 very basic principles that seems to have been lost in our society... Self-Control and Self-Motivation to preserve optimal health in mind, body, and spirit. Master Yourself, Sifu Martin Labels: Energy, Follow Through, Mastery, Self-Control, Self-Motivation
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It's Louse Time! Know your Roots
If you're new to my list of focused, motivated, self- starters, Welcome. (if you're not new jump right away to today's lesson below) Every day I communicate to you the best ways to train and the kind of mindset it takes to get results either in your physical fitness or martial art training. Friday is always what I call: "Louse Time". Modeled after Bruce Lee's strategy in Enter the Dragon. You know that part where he's having tea with the government agent but he's disturbed by one of his students and Bruce Lee tells the agent: It's Louse Time! The agent replies with his British accent: "yes of course". Since I'm 6 years old that scene has always stuck with me and I'll be using that same strategy with YOU every week. Friday is where I share with you Life Lessons and Direction given to me by my dad (and Sifu) every Friday. Today's lesson is: Know Your Roots This statement can take on different meanings. And this morning, my father explored a few of them which I'd like to share with you today. You've all heard the phrase: "Get back to basics". Mastery of martial art skill can be attained through regular practice of the core principles such as: Speed, Intensity, Power, Flexibility, and Balance. Whenever something doesn't feel right whether you're doing a take down or any kind of self-defense technique for example, it can always be linked back to something you didn't quite grasp in the basic levels. To know one's roots also means: "to see through the essence of things". What is the essence of Martial Arts? Some might say, Mastery. Others. Liberation. Maybe even to: "Know Thy Self" What about: The essence of a relationship. The essence of physical conditioning. The essence of family. The essence of service. When you break down what you do, to its essence you have clarity. That clarity serves as motivation when IT is challenged. Knowing your Roots also reminds you of how far you've come. I'm sure you'll agree, making a parallel with martial art training, realizing where you were 6 mths ago and comparing it with where you are now offers great satisfaction and proof that you're progressing and growing. Bruce Lee was also quoted saying: "Know your Roots and you'll know how to spring out" I'll keep that one for another time. Until then, Master Yourself, Sifu Martin Labels: Clarity, Louse Time, Mastery
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Second Step to Mastery
Yesterday I talked about Mastery and it's different steps. Walking this path isn't always easy but it is by far the most rewarding. I believe everyone walks the path of mastery at some point in their life. It's just a matter of time. Through the years I've heard so many prospects say: "I used to be in shape back in the day or I used to fit in a size 4" , some are just fed up and want to finally change the situation they're in, others are on the path and using every little tool we have to offer them so they stay on it. You're either walking it now, have had or you're about to. Many things can pull you away from it, I think you already know what those things are. Can you think of a few? Getting side tracked is part of the game. Getting back on course is the ideal. Whenever you feel yourself drifting off the path, remember the second step to mastery. VISION There are many parts to understanding vision. One I'd like you to focus on is getting in the habit of seeing the end result of your behavior or habits you undertake. Ask yourself: "If I stick with __(fill in the blank)___ (whether it's good for you or bad), how will I feel, look, or be, 10, 20, 30 years from now? Some of the choices we make don't require Psychic ability to realize it leads nowhere. "End Vision" helps you get a glimpse into the future so that if you don't like what you see, you can get to work on changing it now while there's still time. If you're able to make that vision as real as possible (especially with destructive behavior you might be subjecting yourself to now) it can give you the motivation to stay on the path or get back on the path of mastery ASAP. We've all heard and seen movies of the future where they show an alternate, dark future if the hero doesn't make the right choices. Be one that makes the right choices. Start shaping the future you really want now and it starts with making regular, consistent strides in physical fitness. This program will get you on track, guaranteed. FSD's Physical Fitness ProgramMaster Yourself, Sifu Martin Labels: Fang Shen Do, Fitness Training, Mastery, Physical Fitness
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Gimme some Tips
That's the subject line in one of the e-mails I got recently. My answer back was: "Are you ready to use them?" That's the problem. Everyone wants tips but who's ready to implement them? Do you just read my stuff or do you put it in practice? If you've been following me, you know you're supposed to be stretching after every workout to help the body process lactic acid and avoid post workout soreness. You also know about Intense 1 minute workout circuits we're crazy about, where you have to maintain perfect form and give maximum output for the duration of the exercise. I've also shared with you my own private Neigong Training I follow. Where it's core focus is on un-blocking meridians and strengthening your Chi reservoir. I've mentioned on many occasions how I disconnect and reach a level of "No Self", relaxed and flowing freely with weapon work. You already know about the 5-20-10 breathing pattern you should be doing every day for extra energy and lending a helping hand to eliminate toxins from your body. Cut smoking, sugar, and processed food. Follow this tip alone and you'll add several quality years to your life. In my earlier posts and tips you might of heard me talk about firewalking and how the experience changes you forever, revealing a power you have inside that's always been there, unlocking your full potential. I also call upon every man, woman and child to start a martial art program. The constant improvement and invigorating workouts gives you a direction and energy boost like no crappy energy drink ever could. You've heard me promote the words: "Master Yourself". To fail to improve yourself and build upon your successes, to purposely stay stuck in your comfort zone is a great tragedy, it kills the mind, body and spirit. I'm not just talking about this stuff I actually live and breathe it. Become a master implementor, hell, if you're just okay at it that's fine too. As long as you take some sort of action every day, small steps in the right direction, I'll be proud of you. Look at yourself honestly in the mirror and stop B-S-ing yourself. Change what needs to be changed and stick with what's working. Take the first step on the journey of mastery, it starts with taking responsibility. Sifu Martin P.S. Tomorrow I'll talk about the second step to Mastery. Nothing gets done without it. Labels: Breathing, Fang Shen Do, Firewalking, Flexibility training, Martial Arts, Mastery, Stretching, Weapon Training
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In search of Excellence
Not a day goes by that I don't ask myself: "How can I make this better?" or "What can I learn from this?" or "What's the best advice I can give my readers?" These questions always remind me I'm on the path of Mastery. Not always an easy path to be on. This path has many Plateaus but nevertheless, I've learned to enjoy Plateaus. You've certainly reached, at some point in your training, a place where you feel like you're stagnating or just barely making improvements. Depending on how you view this, the plateau might be a bad thing or a good one. In a society based on instant gratification, reaching a plateau might be viewed as a sign that you're not training hard enough or maybe, what you're doing isn't working. Not so. For a student on the path of mastery, plateaus are welcomed and required. I've talked before about drills you can do to "stretch the brain" and create new neural pathways as well as using keywords to enhance your performance giving you a slight edge over someone who's not using them. But using these techniques and getting the results you're looking for won't happen over night. Just repeating a mantra or affirmation, blindfolding yourself or playing Sudoku once isn't enough to cause the mind to, in a sense, re-wire itself to be more efficient. Just like how getting Fat or losing it doesn't happen in a matter of days, they are habits you've maintained that eventually led to a result. If you quit at the first sign of a plateau you'll never succeed at anything. There are many quick fixes available but none of them are of interest to the student that's on the the path of mastery. You are willing to wait for your ligaments and muscles to thicken over time through diligent, specific strength training. You realize like walking, you eventually became successful at it and you realize the challenge of moving your body in a new movement or technique is only a matter of time before your mind, body and nervous system work together to make those movements natural and effortless. You also realize flexibility, is an "acquired taste", the first few times you try it, it ain't so fun but with persistency, flexibility will lead to greater speed and will actually get you in a very calm state. The student on the path of mastery also learns to reap great joy from the mere act of doing, fully embracing the moment, not allowing the mind to wander where it's been and where it's going. There's no rush. If you focus all of your attention on that climactic day where you actually GET what you were looking for, you just might realize like I have, that the journey is way better than the destination. Enjoy the process, a plateau simply points out you need a bit more time to absorb what it is you're working on. For you it might be Flexibility.Maybe it's finally getting fit and following an effective Fitness Program. Whatever it is you'll find something of interest here to start your journey. Master Yourself, Sifu Martin Labels: Excellence, Fang Shen Do, Fitness, flexibility, Mastery
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Only YOU can answer this one.
 What kind of shadow would appear if light could cast your true self on the wall? Would you see a shadow of a 10 foot giant towering from your relatively small frame revealing your level of tenacity and determination showing everyone around you that, like Mark Twain once said: "It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog." Would it reveal the true silhouette you wish you had, one of strength, health, and confidence? or worse... Would the shadow cast from a seemingly youthful man or woman that seems "together" physically and emotionally reveal them living on their knees when they should be experiencing life to the very fullest with no self-imposed limitations? Maybe the shadow is unwavering, unflexible, unable to adapt, stuck in the past? Someone else might see 2 shadows, the old you and the new you but fear is standing in your way, stopping you from implementing the necessary steps and habits to make the change "stick". One's shadow might be drifting all over the place, jumping from one idea to the next, unable to see it through, to finish what you start. What if there's no shadow? Maybe you stand for nothing, maybe you haven't found your true self, maybe you're not contributing enough, maybe the vision you have for yourself isn't clear enough. If you had to take one good hard look at your shadow, what would it reveal? Only YOU can answer that one. One thing I can do, is help you shape it though. I can cast some light on you (via these blog posts) but YOU have to stand up to see what shadow is cast by the light. Start developing yourself from the inside out, start martial arts, or learn something new, find something of interest in our product section. Master Yourself, Sifu Martin Labels: Attitude, Discipline, Fang Shen Do, Martial Arts, Mastery, Strength and Fitness
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Perfection vs Excellence
I just fell on a disturbing statistic. Over 1 million people worldwide commit suicide annually. It's hard to understand why someone would do that. As Sijo has taught me: Life is everything, Death is nothing. Nothing will ever be "just perfect" in your life. I do not seek perfection only excellence in everything I do. One of the best ways to beat depression is by Strength Training. Sometimes it's not even depression it's plain ol' boredom. Most people live a very monotonous life. Same routine every day, never trying anything new. That's why our martial art training is such a breath of fresh air. You never know what to expect. The workouts are always different, the concepts and techniques vary from class to class, you're forced to fight your biggest adversary: Yourself. You discover some of your weaknesses and work towards turning them into strengths. You learn to face fears and overcome them. Since we're so strong on personal development in Fang Shen Do, you the student, has the choice to face fears of heights, fire, public speaking, sparring, glass walking, and arrow breaking. Such was the way hundreds and thousands of years ago. To use your martial art training to reach a level of confidence, awareness, peace, and mastery over your mind and body. Remember not all martial art schools are the same. Some focus purely on the physical. That might be fine for awhile but you will reach a point in your life where you need more than just the physical aspect of martial art training to feel it's worth pursuing. Get involved in a martial art that has much to offer. You can try us out for 30 days, no strings attached. Claim your VIP Pass here. It's FREE. Master Yourself, Sifu Martin Labels: Attitude, Fang Shen Do, Mastery
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