Welcome back to our occasional series of “meet the kenshi”! Today we are meeting SJ. Read on to find out what she thinks about Kempo, life, and Epictetus.
SJ, a Green Belt
Give us a vague idea of who you are outside of the dojo.
I work full time teaching Yr 2 and live with my husband and our two children. I have many hobbies and interests and never sit still!
Tell us something interesting about yourself.
My favourite song is Ace of Spades by Mötorhead.
Why did you start Shorinji Kempo?
I wanted to keep active and learn self-defence.
What were you most nervous about before you started?
That there would be some weird macho vibe.
What were you most looking forward to?
Feeling like I’d found the right martial art for me.
Editor’s note: she stuck around, so I’m guessing there’s no weird macho vibe and she thinks she found the right martial art for her!
How long did it take you to learn how to tie your belt?
A very long time.
What advice would you give to someone who is just starting out in Shorinji Kempo?
Probably the same advice I’d give for starting anything new, try at least 4-6 classes before you decide not to return.
Favourite Shorinji Kempo technique?
Tough one, I have a few, most of Juho! I like the way it works even when my training partner is much larger.
Current Kempo goal?
To pass my next grade.
What would you say is the main benefit you have got out of doing Shorinji Kempo?
It’s a great way of managing stress. Also, lowering my lifetime risk of dementia has got to be up there!
If you could travel anywhere in time and space, where would you go and why?
To watch the construction of the pyramids. I just find it fascinating.
If you could have a giant billboard anywhere, with anything on it, where would you put it and what would it say?
Men are disturbed, not by things, but by the principles and notions which they form concerning things.
~ Epictetus