Ignite Your Inner Engine:
My Odyssey from Physical Routines to Martial Wisdom
The Wake-Up Call:
During the COVID-19 pandemic, being isolated made me realize the limitations of my routine, which involved cycling, yoga, weightlifting, dance, and HIIT. Although I engaged in various physical activities, I still needed a more profound sense of mental tranquility and vitality.
The Quest for Something More:
Amid my inner restlessness, I discovered an old notebook filled with teachings from my martial arts training. The notebook included the teachings of Prince Bodhidharma, an Indian monk who spread Zen Buddhism to China and influenced various martial arts forms.
The Engine Within:
Owning a Ferrari is impressive, but what makes it truly remarkable is the engineering marvel under the hood. Its speed, agility, and performance are not just the result of a shiny exterior but also of a meticulously crafted internal engine. Similarly, while our bodies may present a specific appearance, it is the internal composition—lean mass, muscle fibers, ligaments, tendons—that truly makes a difference. People may notice your habits, but no one can see the neural pathways guiding them!
A Lesson from the Special Forces:
The mantra of Special Forces, “Slow is smooth, smooth is fast,” taught me that inner transformation drives our actions and reactions, whether we are law enforcement officers or civilians.
Bodhidharma’s Eternal Wisdom:
Bodhidharma’s words, “All know the way; few actually walk it,” embody the idea of internal transformation. Although the world may observe a seemingly magical transformation in you one day, the daily internal changes that bring about such a transformation will go unnoticed.
A Paradigm Shift:
The lessons I learned from ancient wisdom and modern insights, combined with my introspection, brought about a significant shift in my approach to well-being, emphasizing the critical role of internal balance.
The Journey Continues:
As I embarked on my journey, it was not just about building physical stamina or attaining a Zen-like mental state. Instead, it became a voyage that took me inward to the essence of my being. This journey was about internal transformation, leaving me questioning what true well-being really means. Initially, I started with external movement, but gradually, I progressed and started training myself internally. Throughout this journey, I realized that true well-being goes beyond physical fitness and requires a harmonious mental, emotional, and physical health balance.
What About Your Journey?
As I explore my inner self, I can’t help but wonder if you, too, have discovered the engine that propels your existence and fuels your journey. What do you think?
Summary
- The Wake-Up Call:
- The Quest for Something More:
- The Engine Within:
- A Lesson from the Special Forces:
- Bodhidharma’s Eternal Wisdom:
- A Paradigm Shift:
- The Journey Continues:
- What About Your Journey?
