ABOUT THE WORKSHOP
This program is based on Traditional Martial Art practices delivered in a modern coaching model. Participants learn practices to improve Holistic Health and strengthen mental and emotional resilience. Practicing in physically and psychologically safe environments, including nature, allows participants to develop 1. Intellectual 2. Emotional 3. Social and 4. Adversarial Intelligence. This is achieved through improved situational awareness, self awareness, self mastery, and community. Participants are encouraged to attend group practice regularly and participate fully.
We have a human need for self care, emotion regulation, and healthy daily practices. Martial Artists (Warriors) invest energy in themselves, to better serve others, and train for maintaining physical, mental, social, and emotional health. Most societies had (or have) a Warrior Culture, and this art may be applied in combat. However, it is not intended to promote conflict, aggression, nor violence. It is intended to cultivate strong individuals with a deep respect for self, family, and community. “What we practice grows stronger.”
Ken Ryu Jujutsu focuses on harmonizing personal energy by performing carefully orchestrated movements intended to release negative energy (like stress) harness positive energy (like happiness) while building a strong human being. Regular Jujutsu practice allows the practitioner to retreat from the demands of everyday life in pursuit of personal health by strengthening the mind – body – spirit connection. This is a return to uncomplicated being. “It's better to be a warrior in a garden than a gardener in a war.” Relax, Smile, Move, and Breathe.
ABOUT THE FACILITATOR
I was raised in a rural community in Newfoundland. I am proud to be Canadian of Celtic, French, Mi’kmaq, and Basque Ancestry. I entered “Memorial University of Newfoundland” at 16 as a science major and Honors Student. Years later, I enrolled in Respiratory Therapy in Halifax, where I met my wife from Cape Breton. Together, we grew while learning about life and love. In my thirty-five-year healthcare career I provided service to countless individuals, from newborn to end of life. I value quality, empathy, compassion, and commitment to patient and family focused care - service excellence. I like volunteering with youth and seniors as a Martial Arts instructor. I value ethical practices, informed decision-making, teamwork, inclusive workplaces, psychological safety, lifelong learning, peer mentorship, diversity and inclusion. I enjoy engaging with others and creating great things. I believe life should have purpose and meaning, “ikigai” in Japanese — “your reason for being”.