Just the word ‘violence’ catches our attention.
We are inundated with violence in movies, media; an overload of destruction and hurt and an ‘underload’ of kindness and compassion.
For many, MMA – Mixed Martial Arts – is synonymous with some type of combat, rough and tumble contact and yes, even violence.
So where does the Filipino Martial Art of Kali fit in at a yoga studio?
Kali, derived from a matriarchal culture, carries a rich history, steeped in a balanced approach of awareness, adaptation and assimilation. Communicating through the language of movements by individuals imprinted with centuries of survival.
Kali offers the modern day warrior – the desk dweller ‘in the trenches’ at work, the professional mom ‘battling with her toddler,’ the 80 hour a week healthcare professional ‘under attack,’ the individual preparing ‘to invade’ the supermarket to buy groceries – many physical and mental health benefits:
- Feeling stable in feet and legs
- Fostering mobility in hips up through shoulders
- Practicing hand-eye coordination
- Deepening concentration
- Activating the whole brain
- Developing team building skills
- Increasing confidence
5 Koshas Martial Arts teacher Jamie Sparling states, ‘I have students of all ages with attention deficit challenges who are looking for more focus and calm. I have students who want to stay mentally sharp because their family has a history of dementia.
These are real challenges and Kali can be a non-violent outlet. The use of the left brain and right brain within rhythmic movement patterns is similar to Yoga, Tai Chi and dancing just to name a few. All of these practices simply help us ignite our innate ability to adapt.’
With over 20 years experience as a practitioner and teacher, Sparlings most in depth study and practice derives from his time with Guro Dan Inosanto, student of world famous martial artist Bruce Lee.
In a Kali class, Sparling provides students with a tailor made practice that fosters growth in mind, body and spirit. He also invites students to continue to learn about the parallels of Kali and Yoga, with classes using yoga to prepare the body and mind for the variety of fluid movement patterns experienced within Kali.
Awaken your compassionate warrior and overload on the benefits – you’re invited to Yoga & Kali classes on Thursdays, 4:15p at 5 Koshas Yoga and Wellness.
