In traditional karate-do, it is common to practice kata, or forms. Kata is a pre-arranged pattern of attacks and defenses. These movements are practiced in sequence. To properly practice kata, one must understand each movement. Understanding comes from breaking down each part of the kata and improving all of the areas of performance. Some of these areas include technique, stance, breathing, and timing. It is important to utilize visualization when executing kata.
When a student begins the practice of kata, they are given specific bunkai, or meanings for each movement. The techniques, stances, and the flow of the kata are scrutinized, altered, and practiced over and over again until the individual reaches an acceptable level of performance. In the same fashion that the sword is tempered and forged through hammering and extreme temperatures, one’s kata needs to be forged through repetition and scrutiny.
Eventually, if the kata is performed well and the spirit of the karate practitioner is true to the Budo, or the Way of the Warrior, the secrets of kata are revealed. These secrets are known as kakushite, or the Hidden Hand.
As karate practitioners, or karateka, learn and practice their kata, they are encouraged to experiment with what could be hidden within the movements. Even if the student does not discover the secrets that are hidden in the kata, they will devise different and functional purposes for the movements that they perform.
Throughout my study of karate, I have had the privilege of reviewing many of the derivations of these movements. I remain in awe of the creative power of the human mind. By studying kata, we can develop a myriad of ways to interpret the movements. It seems that there are many ways to utilize our creativity as we examine the occurrences that take place in our lives. If we look more deeply into the events of our lives, we can develop an array of lessons. By choosing our lessons well, we can develop attitudes that will arm us to fight against the inevitable downturns of life and focus on that which brings us joy.
By continuing to work, sweat, ache, and battle through the frustrations of training and life, we forge our minds and bodies to take knowledge from each encounter, carry us through each campaign, and lead us to countless victories.
