Blog

Why we should all practise kata

Kata is a term used in martial arts which refers to a structured routine consisting of different techniques and stances.  It’s a methodology that uses repeated and consistent practice, teaching us how to perform movements by creating habits, allowing us to move without conscious thought.

Whilst I use the term frequently in my karate and Bonsai Chi sessions, it also relates to us as individuals.

By practising kata we are creating habits.  In karate terms it’s the ability to move our body in angles, not just forwards and backwards.  Understanding where we're placing our body weight so we don't fall over whilst also moving our limbs.

We create habits throughout our life, often without realising we're doing so.  For example, learning to walk, riding a bike, driving a car.  How often do you consciously think of every movement whilst performing these actions?

The problem with creating habits is that we tend to develop shortcuts, as our brain and body thinks it knows what’s coming next, it skips one of the elements and moves straight onto the next one.  Whilst not always a problem, there are many scenarios where this can cause a problem.  For example - we’re taking a step forward and don’t place our foot correctly because we know we’re going to move the other one straight away.  This could result in us becoming un-balanced and un-stable, which can result in a fall.

Practising ‘kata’, encourages us to complete the first step, before starting the next one.  There are no shortcuts, each move and element within that move has to be completed fully and correctly before we move onto the next one.

The act of performing a kata is mindful as well.  The Japanese term ‘Mushin’ refers to the mental state of freeing your mind from all thoughts and emotion. A zen term it translates into ‘mind without mind’.  By quietening our mind we allow ourselves to move without conscious thought.

This can be difficult, we all have ‘mind chatter’, trying to remember everything we need to do.  I’m lost without my to-do lists!  Sitting and meditating isn’t for everyone, for me kata is my meditation, albeit moving meditation.  Once I start the only thing I can concentrate on is how I’m moving my limbs and body.  Our Bonsai Chi kata’s are designed to be done to relaxing music, which encourages you to calm and relax your mind, keeping you present in the room and with yourself.  

Once learnt we can practise the kata on our own, perfecting the moves, developing the ability to quieten our mind when required.  It’s a good way of releasing stress at the end of the day.

Next time you’re moving around, whether at home or work, think about what you’re doing, and what conscious thoughts you’ve gone through to do it.   Can be simple things like putting the kettle on, to complex things like organising your teams daily work schedule.  It all comes down to kata!

If you've enjoyed reading my blog please click here to read - 'Why we use stances'