“Be formless, shapeless, like water, ” said Bruce Lee, echoing the words of the ancient Chinese philosopher Sun Tzu. Written over two thousand years ago, his classic treatise Art of War uses water as a metaphor for strategies in managing conflict. To become “like water” means to be adaptable in all situations. Water can be soft and yielding, but it is also devastatingly powerful.

Today we are facing growing issues surrounding water, conflict and survival. March 22 is World Water Day, and it is the start of World Water Week. The focus is to promote transboundary water management through cooperation, not conflict. International waters are key natural resources ensuring our global future. Where they touch on more than one country, or are intercepted by a nation upstream, they are also a source of tension.

Conflicts arise among leaders, as these transboundary issues are deeply rooted in emotions – water is necessary for survival. It also defines a culture’s opportunity for advancement. The challenge is not only to provide a sustainable clean water system, it is learning to manage and share resources in an equitable way. Understanding historical water disputes and related treaties provide signposts for conflict resolution and aides in developing strategies for the future. Focusing on cooperation and joint action is essential to vital transboundary waters. The resolution process requires a tremendous effort, great skill, programs and money. It also calls for our attention. Lao Tze  said, “The highest good is like water. Water nourishes the ten thousand things.”  In our own lives, we must become aware of how precious water is. Solutions are always best arrived at in the spirit of dialogue. Water is life. Communication is the path.

Spread the word!
Toni Josephson & Lawrence Tan

http://www.unece.org/env/water/wwd2009/waterday2009.htm

http://www.unwater.org/worldwaterday/campaign.html

The Vernal Equinox signals the start of a new season. It is spring here in the Northern Hemisphere and fall below the equator. It is also a new year in western astrology. The sun enters Aries, the first sign of the zodiac — representing vitality, passion, aggression and action. It is the fiery warrior.  And it is the spark to heat up your practice.

The equinox also has an equal amount of day and night. It is a time of balance. In bringing you tandao evolving martial arts, and wellness, there is more than the physical aspect of a discipline. We are interested in anthropology, sociology and psychology…and all the dynamics that drive our motivations, emotions and aggression. They help us understand why we do what we do. Do not underestimate the power and influence this holds.

Sun Tzu’s Art of War teaches artful strategies (bing fa) to resolve conflicts in life. Opponents are encountered within our environment, in our relationships, and even within ourselves. These obstacles block us from moving ahead. Should we compromise our values and live with these blocks? Or should we focus our energies and employ realistic strategies to remove conflicts? Analysis and planning are elements of the philosophy.

Here are four steps to fire up your practice:

• Challenge yourself. An opponent relies on entrenched habits, winning comes from the element of surprise. Get reacquainted with your routines. What can you learn from them? What habits do you need to break? What new routines will you create?

• Identify your fear. Don’t underestimate you inner opponent. Or an irrational fear of someone or something else. Become aware of you fear. Where does it come from?  Is it even a reality? Or a feeling or judgment?

• Make a commitment to your discipline. Skill comes through a long period of determination, then strategy becomes swift. Do you have a plan to meet your goals? Stay focused.

• Reconnect with nature. There is heaven, earth — and man in the middle. Move outdoors. If that isn’t possible, spend time in nature – then bring it into your practice. Check our Spring Training video

What plans are you making to meet your goals? Share your ideas and inspiration with us.

Toni Josephson