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| Axé Arnis is a beautiful and flowing style of internal martial art. The primary focus of this art is the cultivation of spirit, health and martial ability. It is true that Arnis is a deadly fighting system that will train you to defend yourself effectively in many situations, but this is not all that Arnis is. Too often in martial arts today there is no regard for cultivating a mindset of peace. Axé is a word that is often used in Capoeira, having its roots in Afro-Brazilian culture. Axé loosely translates as, "The energy and spirit which flows through and animates all things." My form of Arnis incorporates both the Capoeira mentality of community and the stick fighting system called Maculele. My close friend and Capoeira Contra Mestre, Jason Absher, tells the story of training in Jamaica. The Mestre down there on the island often repeated with a heavy accent, "Capoeira is for Happy". There is great wisdom in that simple statement, for true power in the martial arts really does come from being relaxed and happy. This allows a practitioner to flow effortlessly, responding correctly to whatever situation that arises. So in this way, Arnis is for Happy too. To me, Axé Arnis is a true art, and for that reason what I teach is constantly evolving and growing. To truly own an art one must completely internalize it and make it his or her own. In this way, the art becomes an expression of spirit. Through the art, one can then unlock the potential of the body and the mind, and their infinite possibilities. The training process is long and progress can feel challenging. But, as with anything worth making your own, the effort pays off. I am interested in creating a feeling of community within the Arnis experience, because in the end, fellow practitioners become some of each other's greatest teachers. |
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