Samurai Karate Studio

A Veterans Day Message

noreply@blogger.com (Instructor Chris Feldt) — Mon, 12 Nov 2012 00:28:00 +0000

"This nation will remain the land of the free
only so long as it is the home of the brave."

- Elmer Davis

Today we celebrate Veteran's Day as a national holiday! Please take a moment to thank a veteran if you happen to see one and say a prayer for a loved one that has passed.

My father served in the Navy during World War II and the media often refers to them as the greatest generation. And I really do admire and respect what that generation did for our country.

But I can't help but admire the dedication, courage and sacrifice of our men and women in uniform today!

As we say a prayer for someone we know that has left us, let's remind ourselves to say a prayer for those in harm's way today, to those that guard our strategic landmarks, to those that train our soldiers to be the best they can be, and finally, to the family's that often make huge sacrifices to support their family member that is serving.

God Bless!

Sensei Chris Feldt
Samurai Karate Studio
2000 Clemson Road
Suite # 9
Columbia, SC 29229
803-200-1140
samuraikaratestudio@gmail.com

Healthy Eating Is Self Defense

noreply@blogger.com (Instructor Chris Feldt) — Sun, 15 Jul 2012 18:49:00 +0000

Part of my next black belt test, I have been trying to research about organic farming techniques, the use of pesticides, local farming, etc. The idea being, what we eat effects our health and the more we can do to protect it....well, that is good self defense!

There has been an online food summit going on this week, hosted by Sean Croxton, from Underground Wellness. It has been a very interesting week of talk about healthy eating and life style.

I have really enjoyed the topics and the speakers. Here is a question and answer session that follows up a few of the speakers from the summit.

I hope you enjoy it.

Sensei Chris Feldt
Samurai Karate Studio
2000 Clemson Road
Suite # 9
Columbia, SC 29229
803-462-9425
samuraikaratestudio@gmail.com

Samurai Karate Studio Introduces New Logo

noreply@blogger.com (Instructor Chris Feldt) — Sun, 15 Jul 2012 17:36:00 +0000

I am pleased to announce that Samurai Karate Studio is introducing a new logo patch. We have been using the original Samurai design since we opened our school and I felt we needed revise our logo, better representing the work we do.

SKS is all about teaching self-defense, but more importantly, our focus is on developing Black belt leaders! Our classes help develop focus, self-discipline, build confidence and self esteem, with an emphasis on honor and respect!

I challenge anyone to find a "sports program" that has the ability to teach a child these kinds of life skills that will help them succeed in life!

My students can earn their SKS patch by referring and enrolling a new student to our school. This new patch will be worn on the left front chest of our student's uniform. Here it is:

Sensei Chris Feldt
Samurai Karate Studio
2000 Clemson Road
Suite # 9
Columbia, SC 29229
803-462-9425
samuraikaratestudio@gmail.com

Texting Could Save Lives!

noreply@blogger.com (Instructor Chris Feldt) — Sun, 08 Jul 2012 01:39:00 +0000

It's amazing how technology can be incorporated in a way that touches the lives of many people.

Do Something.org has developed a program that allows teens to text to a crisis hotline!

It's very powerful!

It's real time!

Video from KarmaTube

If you or someone you know is having a problem and needs help, use the link below to reach the Teen Line website:

TEEN LINE

Sensei Chris Feldt
Samurai Karate Studio
2000 Clemson Road
Suite # 9
Columbia, SC 29229
803-462-9425
samuraikaratestudio@gmail.com

The Civil War And What It Reminds Us Today!

noreply@blogger.com (Instructor Chris Feldt) — Thu, 05 Jul 2012 18:58:00 +0000

I have always been fascinated with the history of the Civil War!

It's hard to image, brother against brother, or neighbor against neighbor.....war is just so painful!

With many people home celebrating the 4th of July this week, I would like to remind everyone that FREEDOM is NOT FREE.

We have been waging war in two countries for 10 years and the sacrifice our men and women (and their families) have made, deserves recognition.

And if you don't believe me about the cost of war, take a look at this Civil War picture that tells of the sacrifice that was made in just those short 5 years.

Brought to you by The Civil War Trust

Treating each other with kindness and respect.....NOW that is the ULTIMATE form of self defense!

Sensei Chris Feldt
Samurai Karate Studio
2000 Clemson Road
Suite # 9
Columbia, SC 29229
803-462-9425
samuraikaratestudio@gmail.com

Happy Father's Day From Samurai Karate Studio

noreply@blogger.com (Instructor Chris Feldt) — Sat, 16 Jun 2012 23:57:00 +0000

I would like to take this opportunity to extend a Happy Father's Day to all of my karate family; students, parents and friends!

A special shout out to my father, who served in WWII, and I continue to admire, at the fine old age of 85!

Love you dad!

Sensei Chris Feldt

Samurai Karate Studio

Columbia, SC 29229

803-462-9425

samuraikaratestudio@gmail.com

Happy Memorial Day!

noreply@blogger.com (Instructor Chris Feldt) — Mon, 28 May 2012 14:08:00 +0000

Thank you dad for your service in WWII!

Thank you to all the brave men and women currently serving and those that served before!

I will NEVER forget!

Happy Memorial Day!

Sensei Chris Feldt

Samurai Karate Studio

Columbia, SC 29229

803-462-9425

samuraikaratestudio@gmail.com

The Nature of Things

noreply@blogger.com (Instructor Chris Feldt) — Mon, 28 May 2012 01:58:00 +0000

I recently read an excellent book called the Last Child In The Woods, authored by Richard Louv. It is a scholarly written book and discusses how we are raising a generation of children who spend little to no time in the woods, thus suffering from what Mr. Louv describes as a "nature deficit disorder".

Listen to this short video in which Mr. Louv shares his findings:

I think back to my own youth, remembering the 1,000's of hours spent exploring in the woods, climbing trees, looking for insects, playing in streams, getting muddy and wet and getting lots of healthy exercise.

Fast forward 30 years -- and today's kids spend nearly all of their time indoors -- some because of over-anxious parents worried their child will be abducted, and others, simply because children have video games, DVD movies, and that "drug with a plug" called the television. We are raising a generation of "couch potatoes"!

At Samurai Karate Studio, we have incorporated environmental self defense as part of our Black belt curriculum. I believe I am the only karate or martial art's school in the Columbia area, to be doing this.

Why?

Because self defense is more than just kicking and punching! We need to help remind our children that our planet has a finite amount of resources and we should do as much as we can to protect and preserve our planet!

I highly recommend you read this book.....

And if you are a parent, take the time to bring your children outdoors!

Explore!

Get dirty and most importantly, have some fun!

At the same time you will be reconnecting with nature and receive all the benefits "mother nature" has to offer!

I promise!

How To Select A Bo Staff

noreply@blogger.com (Instructor Chris Feldt) — Sat, 26 May 2012 02:17:00 +0000

Bo staffs come in many different styles and shapes, and can cost anywhere from $20 to $225.

In our Karate training, our advanced black belt leadership students train with a variety of weapons. I found this very useful video from Karate Depot that does a very nice job explaining how to select the right bo for your needs and the correct size.

For students just learning to use a bo staff, we use a foam covered bo for safety.

As you learn how to use the weapon and become more advanced in it's use, that's when you would purchase a weapon similar to what is shown in the above video.

Did you know that Samurai Karate Studio is a referral based academy and that all new students must be sponsored by a member of our school. I would be happy to personally sponsor you, so call today and schedule your appointment.

If you like what you see, I will show you how you can save a bunch of money to join!

Call today

803-462-9425!

Sensei Chris Feldt
Samurai Karate Studio
Columbia, SC 29229
803-462-9425
samuraikaratestudio@gmail.com

The Warrior Story - about a plastic bag

noreply@blogger.com (Instructor Chris Feldt) — Sun, 15 Apr 2012 21:26:00 +0000

I just came across this beautifully produced film about the life of a plastic bag and where it ends up.
If you know anything about my school, we practice environmental self defense.

Yes, I am passionate about enjoying the world outside our houses, but no, I am not some environmental whacko.

I just think it makes good sense to try and conserve our natural resources and protect our planet!

As martial artists, we train to protect ourselves or a loved one in the event of assualt.

Is there really any difference when it comes to protecting our precious planet?

If you would like to find out about my school and the programs we offer, please give us a call at 803-462-9425 or email me at samuraikaratestudio@gmail.com and we will schedule an appointment within the next few days.

Sensei Chris Feldt
Samurai Karate Studio
Columbia, SC 29229
803-462-9425
samuraikaratestudio@gmail.com

noreply@blogger.com (Instructor Chris Feldt) — Tue, 03 Apr 2012 14:34:00 +0000

I saw this from Facebook page Live Laugh Love.

The art of living is neither careless drifting on the one hand nor fearful clinging on the other. It consists in being sensitive to each moment, in regarding it as utterly new and unique, in having the mind open and wholly receptive.... Alan Watts

Sensei Chris Feldt

Samurai Karate Studio

Columbia, SC 29229

803-462-9425

samuraikaratestudio@gmail.com

Paleo Lifestyle

noreply@blogger.com (Instructor Chris Feldt) — Sun, 01 Apr 2012 00:28:00 +0000

I have been doing some research trying to focus on eating a healthier selection of food and limit my intake of sugar. For me, this has been a herculean task, as I have been drinking soda since college and admitedly, I am addicted to it.

I also have been trying to limit my passion for fast food! Another habit that started later in high school.

When I was growing up, I hardly ever ate any fast food, and I think my mom did a pretty good job of giving us a variety of fruits and vegtables. However, as the years went on, I developed some really bad eating habits.

In doing my research, one of the interesting things I have come across is a paleo lifesty, which looks at how our ancestors historically ate and exercised and recommends a similar lifestyle and diet.

I recently came across this chart, which really does a nice job of explaining the thought process behind the "paleo craze"

There are many excellent books on paleo, I would recommend you start with The Paleo Solution.

Enjoy the chart!

Learn more about the Paleo Diet.

Sensei Chris Feldt
Samurai Karate Studio
Columbia, SC 29229
803-462-9425
samuraikaratestudio@gmail.com

Model Anti-Bullying Statue

noreply@blogger.com (Instructor Chris Feldt) — Sat, 24 Mar 2012 16:59:00 +0000

The below document is a proposed anti-bullying statue that states can use to as a guideline for anti-bullying legislation. It was provided by The Bully Project.

ANTI-DEFAMATION LEAGUE
MODEL K-12 BULLYING PREVENTION STATUTE

(A) Prohibited Activities:
(1) Harassment, Intimidation, Bullying and Cyberbullying, prohibited:

(a) No student shall be subjected to harassment, intimidation, bullying, or
cyberbullying in any public educational institution,

(i) During any education program or activity; or
(ii) While in school, on school equipment or property, in school vehicles,
on school buses, at designated school bus stops, at school-sponsored
activities, at school-sanctioned events; or
(iii) Through the use of data, telephone or computer software that is
accessed through a computer, computer system, or computer network of
any public educational institution.

(b) As used in this Act, Kharassment, intimidation, bullying or cyberbullyingL
means any written, verbal or physical act, or any electronic communication
including, but not limited to, one shown to be motivated by a studentMs
actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry or ethnicity,
sexual orientation, physical, mental, emotional, or learning disability, gender,
gender identity and expression, or other distinguishing personal
characteristic, or based on association with any person identified above,
when the written, verbal or physical act or electronic communication is
intended to:
(i) Physically harm a student or damages the student's property; or
(ii) Substantially interfere with a studentMs educational opportunities; or
11(iii) Be so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating
or threatening educational environment; or
(iv) Substantially disrupt the orderly operation of the school.

(c) As used in this Section, Kelectronic communicationL means any
communication through an electronic device including but not limited to a
telephone, cellular phone, computer or pager,which communication
includes but is not limited to E-Mail, instant messaging, text messages,
blogs, mobile phones, pagers, online games, and Web sites.
7
(B) School Board Requirements and Responsibilities
(1) Each school district shall adopt a policy prohibiting harassment, intimidation,
bullying and cyberbullying, which includes the definition in this Act.

(2) The school district shall involve students, parents, administrators, school staff,
school volunteers, community representatives, and local law enforcement agencies
in the process of adopting the policy. The school district policy must be
implemented in a manner that is ongoing throughout the school year and
integrated with a school's curriculum, a school's discipline policies, and other
violence prevention efforts.
8

(3) The policy shall contain, at a minimum, the following components:
(a) Notice
(i) A statement prohibiting harassment, intimidation, bullying or
cyberbullying of a student, as defined above;
(ii)A statement prohibiting retaliation or false accusation against a target,
witness or one with reliable information about an act of bullying,
harassment and intimidation;
(iii) A requirement that all students are protected regardless of their status
under the law;

7
Source:(A)(1)(a) adapted from FS 1006.147; A.C.A. § 6-18-514; AZ.R.S. Ann. § 15-341
(A)(1)(b) adapted from WA St. 28A.300.285 ; NJ 18A 37-14 ; Iowa Code Ann. § 280.28

(A)(1)(c) adapted from MD. Ann. Ed § 7-424
8
Source: (B)(2) FS 1006.147
12(iv) A statement of how the policy is to be publicized, including
requirements that: annual written notice of the policy is provided to
parents, guardians, staff, volunteers, and students, with age appropriate
language for students; the policy is posted throughout all schools in the
district, including but not limited to cafeterias, school bulletin boards,
administration offices, and the school districtMs Web site; and the policy is
included in all student and employee handbooks;

(v) A procedure for providing immediate notification to the parents or
guardian of a victim of, harassment, intimidation, bullying or
cyberbullying and the parents or guardian of the perpetrator of the
harassment, intimidation, bullying or cyberbullying;
(vi) The identification by job title of school officials responsible for ensuring
that the policy is implemented.
(vii) A statement that this policy will apply to an electronic communication
whether or not this conduct originated on school property or with school
equipment so long as:
(1) a reasonable person should know, under the circumstances, that the
act will have the effect of harming a student or damaging the
studentMs property, or placing a student in reasonable fear of harm
to his or her person or damage to his or her property; and has the
effect of insulting or demeaning any student or group of students in
such a way as to cause substantial disruption in, or substantial
interference with, the orderly operation of the school; or
(2) the act is directed specifically at students and intended for the
purpose of disrupting school, and has a high likelihood of
succeeding in that purpose.
9

9
Source: (B)(3)(a)(i) ORS §339.356(2)(a)-(b)
(B)(3)(a)(ii) Alaska Stat. § 14.33.200-250
(B)(3)(a)(iii) Utah Code 53A-11a
(B)(3)(a)(vi) adapted from A.C.A. § 6-18-514; FLS § 1006.147
(B)(3)(a)(v) FLS § 1006.147

(B)(3)(a)(vi) ORS §339.362
(B)(3)(a)(viii) adapted from A.C.A. § 6-18-514(b)(2) and NJ St 18A:37-14(2)
13(b) Reporting and Investigations
(i) A procedure for reporting an act of harassment, intimidation, bullying or
cyberbullying, including a provision that permits a person to report such act
anonymously. No formal disciplinary action shall be taken solely on the
basis of an anonymous report;
(ii) A requirement that any school employee that has reliable information
that would lead a reasonable person to suspect that a person is a target of
harassment, intimidation, bullying or cyberbullying shall immediately report
it to the principal or the principalMs designee;

(iii) A procedure for each school to document any prohibited incident that
is reported and a procedure to report all incidents of, harassment,
intimidation, bullying or cyberbullying and the resulting consequences,
including discipline and referrals, to the Board of Education on a semiannual basis;
(iv) A procedure for reporting to law enforcement all acts of harassment,
intimidation, bullying or cyberbullying which may constitute criminal
activity.
10

(v) A procedure for prompt investigation of reports of violations and
complaints, identifying either the principal or the principal's designee as the
person responsible for the investigation;
(c) Remedies and Victim Assistance
(i) Consequences and appropriate remedial action for a person who
commits an act of harassment, intimidation, bullying or cyberbullying;
(ii) Consequences and appropriate remedial action for a student found to
have falsely accused another as a means of retaliation, reprisal, or as a means
of harassment, intimidation, bullying or cyberbullying;

10
Source: (B)(3)(b)(i) NJ St 18A:37-15(b)(5)
(B)(3)(b)(ii) A.C.A. § 6-18-514(b)(4)

(B)(3 (b)(iii) WV ST 18-2C-3(b)(6); Kentucky Acts Chap. 125
(B)(3)(b)(iv) Utah Code 53A-11a

14(iii) A strategy for providing counseling or referral to appropriate services,
including guidance, academic intervention, and protection to students, both
targets and perpetrators, and appropriate family members, affected by
harassment, intimidation, bullying or cyberbullying, as necessary;
(iv) A statement encouraging public schools and school districts to form
bullying prevention task forces, programs, and other initiatives involving
school staffs, pupils, administrators, volunteers, parents, law enforcement,
community members, and other stakeholders.
11
(4) Training and Assessment
Each School District shall provide the following educational programs in its
efforts to prevent harassment, intimidation, bullying or cyberbullying:
(a) Annual training for administrators, school employees and volunteers who
have significant contact with students in preventing, identifying, responding to,
and reporting incidents of, harassment, intimidation, bullying or cyberbullying;
and
(b) An educational program for students and parents in preventing, identifying,
responding to, and reporting incidents of, harassment, intimidation, bullying or
cyberbullying.
12
(C) State Board of Education Requirements and Responsibilities
The State Board of Education shall:
(1) Develop a model policy and training materials on the components that should
be included in any district policy;

(2) Periodically review school district programs, activities, and services to
determine whether the school boards are complying with this statute;

11
Source: (B)(3)(c)(i) NJ St 18A:37-15(b)(4)
(B)(3)(c)(ii) NJ St 18A:37-15(b)(9)

(B)(3)(c)(iii) adapted from FLS § 1006.147
(B)(3)(c)(iv) R.I. Gen. Laws § 16-21-26
12
Source: (B)(4)(a) adapted from NJ ST 18A:37-17(b)-(c) and FLS § 1006.147
(B)(4)(b) adapted from MD. Ann. Ed § 7-424
15

Here's a link to the PDF File.

If you or someone you know is a victim of bullying, please call me at 803-462-9425 and I will personally help you.

Don't wait before it's too late. We have already lost too many children to bullying the past few years!

Sensei Chris Feldt
Samurai Karate Studio

The Bully Project

noreply@blogger.com (Instructor Chris Feldt) — Sat, 24 Mar 2012 16:38:00 +0000

Bullying is a national tragedy!

The facts are staggering and we know that bullying effects millions of kids each year!

Do you have a bullying story you want to share?

You are not alone!

The creators of the Bully Movie, have created a website where you can share you bullying story in the hopes that others will have the courage to report their story as well.

Click HERE to tell your story.

If you or someone you know is a victim of bullying, please let me help! Call me at 803-462-9425 and I will work with you one on one!

Don't wait before it's too late! We have lost far too many children to bullying this year alone!

Sensei Chris Feldt

Samurai Karate Studio

Columbia, SC 29229

803-462-9425

samuraikaratestudio@gmail.com

Take The Stop Bullying Pledge

noreply@blogger.com (Instructor Chris Feldt) — Sat, 24 Mar 2012 16:27:00 +0000

Okay, take 30 seconds to show your commitment to end bullying now.

TAKE THE PLEDGE

If you or anyone you know is a victim of bullying, I am here to help. Please call me at 803-462-9425.

Don't wait, before it's too late!

We have lost too many children to bullying already!

Sensei Chris Feldt

Samurai Karate Studio

Columbia, SC 29229

803-462-9425

samuraikaratestudio@gmail.com

The Long Family

noreply@blogger.com (Instructor Chris Feldt) — Sat, 24 Mar 2012 16:09:00 +0000

The Tyler Long family is a major focus of the new movie soon to be released called BULLY. It is a documentary about the tragic effects of bullying and examines why it is happening and what isn't being done to prevent it.

Tyler Long was bullied so bad, he eventually took his own life.

His family is telling his story so that hopefully their message will be heard and their son's death will not be in vain.

Here is a quick link of the Long family interview on the Ellen show.

http://www.wrcbtv.com/story/17232775/ellen-show-hosts-tyler-longs-family-for-bully-documentary?autoStart=true&topVideoCatNo=default&clipId=6867445

If you or someone you know is being bullied, I am here to help. As I child, I was a victim of bullying and I know what it feels like to be trapped. Please call me at 803-462-9425 immediately. Don't wait before it's too late!

Sensei Chris Feldt
Samurai Karate Studio
Columbia, SC 29229
803-462-9425
samuraikaratestudio@gmail.com

Celebrities and Kids Rally Around Bullying

noreply@blogger.com (Instructor Chris Feldt) — Sat, 24 Mar 2012 15:52:00 +0000

By ABC News Nightline

video platform video management video solutions video player

I can't wait to see this new movie!

I think the world is finally starting to wake up to the idea that we ALL need to take responsibility to end bullying and keep our children safe while they are in school.

Let me know what you think we you see the movie!

Sensei Chris Feldt

Samurai Karate Studio

Columbia, SC 29229

803-462-9425

samuraikaratestudio@gmail.com

ABC Nightline Provides Bullying Resources

noreply@blogger.com (Instructor Chris Feldt) — Sat, 24 Mar 2012 15:47:00 +0000

By ABC News Nightline

Millions of kids are relentlessly demeaned and physically attacked at school every day. Parents of victims and educators say that a change must take place and everyone can help. Below is a list of resources to help stop bullying and cyberbullying.

For Everyone:

The Bully Project, and 'Billy' Movie: The documentary film that sparked a nationwide movement to stop bullying offers stories of those who were bullies and resources for parents, teachers, kids and communities for how to deal with and stop bullies on their website.

"Bully," which follows the lives of five U.S. students who faced bullying on a daily basis at school, including two who commited suicide as a result, will be in theaters on March 30, 2012.

Stop Bullying Now!: A resource website sponsored by the U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services that addresses the warning signs of bullying, how to talk about bullies, how to report bullies and cyberbullying and offers a 24-hour help hotline for victims at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

For Children and Teens:

Teens Against Bullying: Specifically created to help teens learn about bullying, how to appropriately respond to it and how to prevent it.

Kids Against Bullying: Specifically created to help elementary school children learn about bullying, how to appropriately respond to it and how to prevent it.

Weinstein Company

Alex in Lee Hirsch's film "Bully". This... View Full Size

'Bully': Streep Hosts Film ScreeningWatch Video

Trailer: 'Bully' Watch Video

Gastric Bypass Hypnosis: Thinking Thin Watch Video

STOMP Out Bullying!: A national anti-bullying and cyberbullying program for kids and teens.

National Youth Advocacy Coalition: An advocacy organization for young people.

Trevor Project: A national organization that provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth. They also offer the Trevor Lifeline, a 24-hour, national crisis and suicide prevention hotline for LGBTQ youth. The number is 1-866-4-U-Trevor.

For Parents and Teachers:

PACER's National Bullying Prevention Center: Offers resources for how to teach kids of all ages about bullying, state laws and what parents can do if their child is being bullied, and peer advocacy groups.

Education.com: Bullying at School and Online: A resource for both teachers and parents on how to help a bullied child.

Teaching Tolerance: Bullying: Offers guidelines and activities for teachers to help teach students K-12 about bullies.

The Human Rights Campaign's Welcoming Schools Guide: A guide to help school administrators, educators, and parents or caring adults make sure that their elementary schools welcome all students and families. Targeted at addressing family diversity, gender stereotyping, and name-calling in K-5th grades.

GLSEN, Gay Lesbian Straight Education Network: Works with school officials to ensure that transgender, gay and lesbian students are not harassed or bullied.

Family Acceptance Project: Launched out of the Marian Wright Edelman Institute at San Francisco State University, this organization works to decrease major health and related risks for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) youth.

If you or anyone you know is a victim of bullying, I am here to help! Please contact me right away so that I can help give you the tools to help defeat the bully in a non-physical kind of way.

Sensei Chris Feldt

Samurai Karate Studio

Columbia, SC 29229

803-462-9425

samuraikaratestudio@gmail.com

Kindness is the Ultimate Form of Self Defense!

noreply@blogger.com (Instructor Chris Feldt) — Sat, 24 Mar 2012 15:04:00 +0000

As a member of the UBBT and the 100, one of the things our team coach, mentor and friend, Tom Callos, has taught us, is that the martial art's means more than just kicking and punching.

Okay, I know what you are thinking!

I practice karate and bujutsu with the intention of taking down my attacker in quick successive movements that will disable, possibly injure. However, the reality is, we train, so that we NEVER have to use our martial arts.

In this world where bullying has become common place, with young desparate children taking their lives out of fear and pain, I think the time is NOW to do something about it.

Think about it

If we treated each other with kindness and respect, there would be less conflict!

Yes?

Imagine, our politicians in Washington, treating each other with civility, respect and yes, even kindness, our country would probably be in a better place.

Yes?

What if we all agreed to perform 3 acts of kindness a day.....that would be a 1,000 acts of kindness for the year. Multiply that by your family, your work place, your neighborhood, your community, your town......

You get the picture!

The world would be in a different place.

Yes?

It all starts with YOU!

Start today!

Lead the way and watch the ripple effect when you do something kind for someone. Ask them to pay it forward!

How cool would that be?

Sensei Chris Feldt

Samurai Karate Studio

Columbia, SC 29229

803-462-9425

samuraikaratestudio@gmail.com

The Way of the Peaceful Parent

noreply@blogger.com (Instructor Chris Feldt) — Sat, 24 Mar 2012 14:42:00 +0000

As a master teacher, I am always looking for ways to improve myself, my school and those in my sphere of influence! I follow several influential blogs that communicate healthy ways of living, leading a more spiritual way of life, or just how to be a better person.

One blog that I follow almost every day is ZEN HABITS!

Here is an excellent article on parenting.

Enjoy!

‘… and she loved a boy very, very much– even more than she loved herself.’ ~Shel Silverstein, The Giving Tree

Post written by Leo Babauta.

There is no such thing as stress-free parenting.

A reader requested that I share my thoughts on stress-free parenting, as the father of six kids. And while I have learned a lot about being a dad, and finding joy in parenthood, I also know that stress-free parenting is a myth.

Parents will always have stress: we not only have to deal with tantrums and scraped knees and refusing to eat anything you cook, but we worry about potential accidents, whether we are ruining our kids, whether our children will find happiness as adults and be able to provide for themselves and find love.

That said, I’ve learned that we can find peace.

Peace isn’t a place with no stress, but a place where you take the stress as it comes, in stride, and don’t let it rule you. You let it flow through you, and then smile, and breathe, and give your child a hug.

There is a Way of the Peaceful Parent, but it isn’t one that I’ve learned completely. I’ll share what I’ve learned so far, with the caveat that I don’t always follow the Way, that I still make mistakes daily, that I still have a lot to learn, that I don’t claim to have all the answers as a parent.

The Way

The Way is only learned by walking it. Here are the steps I recommend:

Greet your child each morning with a smile, a hug, a loving Good Morning! This is how we would all like to be greeted each day.
Teach your child to make her own breakfast. This starts for most children at around the age of 3 or 4. Teach them progressively to brush their teeth, bathe themselves, clean up their rooms, put away clothes, wash their dishes, make lunch, wash their own clothes, sweep and clean, etc.
Teaching these skills takes patience. Kids suck at them at first, so you have to show them about a hundred times, but let them try it, correct them, and let them make mistakes. They will gradually learn independence as you will gradually have less work to do caring for them.
Older children can help younger children — it’s good for them to learn responsibility, it helps the younger children learn from the older ones, and it takes some of the stress off you.
Read to them often. It’s a wonderful way to bond, to educate, to explore imaginary worlds.
Build forts with them. Play hide and seek. Shoot each other with Nerf dart guns. Have tea together. Squeeze lemons and make lemonade. Play, often, as play is the essence of childhood. Don’t try to force them to stop playing.
When your child asks for your attention, grant it.
Parents need alone time, though. Set certain traditions so that you’ll have time to work on your own, or have mommy and daddy time in the evening, when your child can do things on her own.
When your child is upset, put yourself in his shoes. Don’t just judge the behavior (yes, crying and screaming isn’t ideal), but the needs behind the behavior. Does he need a hug, or attention, or maybe he’s just tired?
Model the behavior you want your child to learn. Don’t yell at the child because he was screaming. Don’t get angry at a child for losing his temper. Don’t get mad at a kid who wants to play video games all the time if you’re always on your laptop. Be calm, smile, be kind, go outdoors and be active.
When a stressful time arises (and it will), learn to deal with it with a smile. Make a joke, turn it into a game, laugh … you’ll teach your child not to take things so seriously, and that life is to be enjoyed. Breathe, walk away if you’ve lost your temper, and come back when you can smile.
Remember that your child is a gift. She won’t be a child for long, and so your time with her is fleeting. Every moment you can spend with her is a miracle, and you should savor it. Enjoy it to the fullest, and be grateful for that moment.
Let your child share your interests. Bake cookies together. Sew together. Exercise together. Read together. Work on a website together. Write a blog together.
Know that when you screw up as a parent, everything will be fine. Forgive yourself. Apologize. Learn from that screw up. In other words, model the behavior you’d like your child to learn whenever he screws up.
Patiently teach your child the boundaries of behavior. There should be boundaries — what’s acceptable and what’s not. It’s not OK to do things that might harm yourself or others. We should treat each other with kindness and respect. Those aren’t things the child learns immediately, so have patience, but set the boundaries. Within those boundaries, allow lots of freedom.
Give your child some space. Parents too often overschedule their child’s life, with classes and sports and play dates and music and clubs and the like, but it’s a constant source of stress for both child and parent to keep this schedule going. Let the child go outside and play. Free time is necessary. You don’t always have to be by her side either — she needs alone time just as much as you do.
Exercise to cope with stress. A run in solitude is a lovely thing. Get a massage now and then.
It helps tremendously to be a parenting team — one parent can take over when the other gets stressed. When one parent starts to lose his temper, the other should be a calming force.
Mom and dad need a date night every week or so. Get a babysitter, or better yet, teach the older kids to babysit.
Sing and dance together.
Take every opportunity to teach kindness and love. It’s the best lesson.
Kiss your child goodnight. And give thanks for another amazing day with your beautiful, unique, crazy child.

‘You know the only people who are always sure about the proper way to raise children? Those who’ve never had any.’ ~Bill Cosby

The internet can be a wonderful resource....you just have to find the "Gems" that are out there!

Sensei Chris Feldt
Samurai Karate Studio
Columbia, SC 29229
803-462-9425
samuraikaratestudio@gmail.com

Find No Enemy

noreply@blogger.com (Instructor Chris Feldt) — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 23:18:00 +0000

I like all kinds of music, and you might even be surprised to hear that I even like Hip Hop. I must admit, I am selective with which artists I listen to, because often times the lyrics focus too much on sex, violence and drugs.

But, there are some real GEMS out there.

I recently came across this video from Karma Tube, of a song sung by Akala. Akala's lengthy hip-hop poem is somber and clear-eyed in its disappointment with race-relations, global politics, and contemporary culture. And yet it retains both hopefulness and an action-plan. "The only way you can change anything," he slams, "is to look in the mirror and find no enemy."

Find No Enemy

If you want to join a group of like minded individuals, who want to make a difference in their lives and the lives of others, please stop by our karate school and see what we are all about!

Sensei Chris Feldt

Samurai Karate Studio

Columbia, SC 29229

803-462-9425

samuraikaratestudio@gmail.com

Bully - A Movie

noreply@blogger.com (Instructor Chris Feldt) — Sat, 17 Mar 2012 00:20:00 +0000

I am very excited about the release of a new documentary, called BULLY. It has been in the works for several years and it is scheduled to be released March 30th.

The story tragically follows up a community where bullying appears to be rampant and one boy decided to take his own life because he had been bullied so much.

This has been happening throughout our country the past couple of years, as school districts are trying to take action to protect our children. The reality is, the schools can only do so much. Parents, family members, friends -- ALL of us need to take responsibility and get involved and help those children who are victims.

Together we CAN defeat the bully.

Watch the trailer below:

During the past month, I have worked with one of my local elementary schools, where I taught 4th and 5th graders how to deal with bullies in a non violent way.

It's not that hard.....we just need to take the time to teach our children to develop their own tools for dealing with a bully.

If you or someone you know, is a victim of bullying, please contact me personally and I will help.

Don't wait to call before it's too late!

Sensei Chris Feldt
Samurai Karate Studio
Columbia, SC 29229
83-462-9425
samuraikaratestudio@gmail.com

Where Are The Tar Sands

noreply@blogger.com (Instructor Chris Feldt) — Fri, 16 Mar 2012 23:19:00 +0000

At Samurai Karate Studio, we practice environmental self defense!

For the record, I'm not some environmental "whacko". I just believe we ALL have a responsibility to protect and conserve our planet's natural resources. To me, this is just smart SELF DEFENSE.

I realize the US economy and the world's, for that matter, is addicted to oil. And we currently need oil to keep our country moving forward. However, I believe we can develop our oil resources in a smart way, with less impact to the environment. Of course, we need to be developing alternative fuel sources at the same time, so that eventually, we can become less dependent on oil.

There is currently a lot of controversy about the tar sands of Canada. I wanted to find out more about them.

If you follow my work, you know I am a huge fan of TED, an online lecture series that covers a wide range of topics. In the video below, you will meet Garth Lenz, who is an award winning conservation photographer whose work has been seen in shows around the globe. Recently he appeared at a TEDx event in Victoria, BC Canada with his exhibition, The True Cost of Oil.

Through Lenz's photography, this exhibit showcases the beauty of some of Canada's pristine environments—and the dire impact that tar sands oil extraction has on them.

I really had no idea of the complete devastation to the environment that these mines are responsible for. Nor did I realize they are encroaching of some of the most pristine rain forests located in the north.

I often remind my students that we practice our self defense techniques over and over - so that hopefully, in the event we were ever attacked, we would be prepared to defend ourselves from harm.

Well, I think we need to consider taking action to DEFEND ourselves (and our planet) from the devestating consequences of extracting oil from these tar sands.

How?

Start by aking action and calling your state Congressman or Senator - to voice your concerns about the tar sands, before it is too late. Get involved. Stay informed.

That is good self defense!

Yes?

Sensei Chris Feldt
Samurai Karate Studio
Columbia, SC 29229
803-462-9425

Eating Healthy Is Good Self Defense

noreply@blogger.com (Instructor Chris Feldt) — Sat, 10 Mar 2012 00:31:00 +0000

I recently read an executive summary, from the Environmental Working Group, also known as EWG, which listed the top vegtables and fruits that were found to contain a lot of pesticides in them.

Modern farming relies on many pesticides in order to improve crop yields and protect the land from many harmful insects or diseases. Unfortunately, the average consumer doesn't relize that many of the pesticides remain on the products, despite washing.

While the tests typcially reveal trace amounts that are considered harmless, the concern is the long term impact of eating food with these chemical residues and how they can damage our bodies.

EWG listed the top vegtables to avoid, or try to buy organic, and they also listed the products that typical have no or very little pesticide residue on them. I have copied the graph and posted it below.

At Samurai Karate Studio, I include Diabetes awareness and healthy eating as part of our Black Belt training. For some people this might seem strange, however, I believe we have to defend ourselves from disease, just as much as we do from a bully or an attacker.

The reality is, most of us face a greater danger from disease, than assault.

If you would like more information on the good work this group is doing, you can visit them at EWG.

Sensei Chris Feldt

Samurai Karate Studio

Columbia, SC 29229

803-462-9425

samuraikaratestudio@gmail.com

March Madness Referral Promotion

noreply@blogger.com (Instructor Chris Feldt) — Thu, 08 Mar 2012 18:44:00 +0000

March Madness (College Basketball) is right around the corner, as the best colleges in the country will be vying for the national championship.

What better way to celebrate, with some MADNESS of our own.

Every student or parent, has the chance to win $1,000 this month. Here's how:

1st Round
Refer a friend that enrolls in SKS, receive $50

Second Round
Refer a second friend who enrolls in SKS and receive $100

3rd Round
A 3rd friend who enrolls......$150

4th Round
A 4th friend who enrolls......$200

Final Round
A 5th friend who enrolls......$500

You can win up to $1000!

This promotion is good for the month of March!

Who is going to be our grand champion?

Sensei Chris Feldt
Samurai Karate Studio
2000 Clemson Road
Suite # 9
Columbia, SC 29229
803-462-9425
samuraikaratestudio@gmail.com