Washindo
Washindo-Kai is a contemporary martial art. An art for the here and now that respects the teachings of the past and constantly strives through continuous learning.
Washindo – it means The way of the peaceful heart.
Kai – it means the organisation.
Washindo: A Balanced Path to Wellbeing
At Washindo, we believe true wellness arises from a holistic approach that combines movement, relaxation, meditation, and mindful living. Our practice integrates elements of yoga, meditation, and martial arts - ancient disciplines cantered on cultivating inner peace and clarity of mind.
Rather than promoting a competitive ``sports mentality,`` we align with the core values of these time-honoured arts: unity, peace, and self-awareness. Our approach allows you to move beyond the stresses of daily life and develop a deeper connection with your mind, body, and spirit.
With guidance from experienced practitioners, you'll learn techniques to calm the restless mind and heighten your consciousness. As mental stillness takes root, you'll gain new perspectives that bring your goals and desired changes into sharper focus.
Washindo provides a balanced path towards improved wellbeing. Join us as we blend physical practice with mental and spiritual development, enabling you to live with greater mindfulness, harmony, and purpose.
Discover the enriching way of Washindo.
Washindo
Washindo-Kai is a contemporary martial art. An art for the here and now that respects the teachings of the past and constantly strives through continuous learning.
Washindo – it means The way of the peaceful heart.
Kai – it means the organisation.
Washindo: A Balanced Path to Wellbeing
At Washindo, we believe true wellness arises from a holistic approach that combines movement, relaxation, meditation, and mindful living. Our practice integrates elements of yoga, meditation, and martial arts - ancient disciplines centred on cultivating inner peace and clarity of mind.
Rather than promoting a competitive ``sports mentality,`` we align with the core values of these time-honoured arts: unity, peace, and self-awareness. Our approach allows you to move beyond the stresses of daily life and develop a deeper connection with your mind, body, and spirit.
With guidance from experienced practitioners, you'll learn techniques to calm the restless mind and heighten your consciousness. As mental stillness takes root, you'll gain new perspectives that bring your goals and desired changes into sharper focus.
Washindo provides a balanced path towards improved wellbeing. Join us as we blend physical practice with mental and spiritual development, enabling you to live with greater mindfulness, harmony, and purpose.
Discover the enriching way of Washindo.
Our Instructors at Rolleston
We do not distinguish between practicing, teaching, and learning. Teaching is not something we do after Washindo has been ‘mastered’, nor is it something you do when you have ‘finished learning’. Our teachers acknowledge that the real meaning of the message will not be found in what they say or for that matter demonstrate, but in the body and response of our students.
This is the power and magic of teaching. The teacher becomes the learner and the student the teacher. A wonderful virtuous circle of learning.
From the outset our members Focus is not on techniques alone as this does not deal successfully with dynamic situations that occur in distance, timing, rhythms, and speeds. We enable a development in a ‘state’ of being present is also required. A state in which our sensory awareness is focussed on the external environment. This increased sensory experience helps us all to perceive clearly and respond appropriately to what is taking place in front of us.
Sue Taylor
Sue joined in 2017 and is a 1st dan black belt in Washindo.
Olaf Zander
Olaf practiced karate in Germany in 1992 and joined Washindo in 2017. Olaf is a 1st dan black belt.
Maxine Meaden
Joined Washindo in 2023.
Leonardo Pirisi
Leonardo began practicing taekwondo 1st dan in 1982. Leonardo then studied Gōjū-ryū 1st dan for a number of years before joining us in Washindo in 2023.
Pat Taylor
Pat joined in 2017 and is a 1st dan black belt in Washindo.
Rob Meaden
Rob joined Washindo in 2021 and is a brown belt.
What is our practice?
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Our practice content varies from week to week but typically lasts for 2 hours
Yoga for circa 30 minutes
Mushin-no-shin (moving meditation) for circa 15 minutes
Martial Art awareness for circa 75 minutes
During the martial content we typically explore
Kihon – modelling balance, coordination, technique and rapport
Kata – formally recognised movement from the world of karate
Kumite – sparring with a partner
Randori – random continuous movement from multiple attackers for the more experienced
Our combined practice
We combine yoga, meditation, and martial arts as there are numerous holistic benefits for overall well-being. Here are some key advantages of integrating these practices:
1. Mind-Body Connection:
Yoga and martial arts emphasize the union of physical movements with breath and mental focus. When combined with meditation, this mind-body connection is further strengthened, promoting a heightened sense of awareness and presence in the present moment.
2. Stress Reduction:
The breathing exercises, physical postures, and mental stillness cultivated through yoga, meditation, and our martial arts style can effectively reduce stress levels.
These practices help regulate the body’s stress response and promote a sense of calm and relaxation.
3. Improved Concentration and Focus:
The combination of these disciplines requires sustained attention and concentration, which can enhance your ability to focus and stay present, benefiting both personal and professional endeavours.
4. Emotional Balance:
The introspective nature of meditation, combined with the physical and philosophical aspects of yoga and martial arts, can help cultivate emotional stability, self-control, and resilience in the face of life’s challenges.
5. Increased Flexibility and Strength:
The physical components of yoga and our martial art, when practiced together, can improve overall flexibility, balance, and strength, reducing the risk of injuries and supporting a more active lifestyle.
6. Self-Discipline and Personal Growth:
The dedication and commitment required to practice these arts can foster self-discipline, perseverance, and a greater sense of self-awareness, contributing to personal growth and self-mastery.
7. Mindfulness and Present Moment Awareness:
The combined practice of yoga, meditation, and martial arts emphasizes mindfulness – the ability to be fully present and engaged in the current moment, leading to a greater appreciation for life’s experiences.
By integrating these ancient practices with modern-day science and medical advice, individuals can experience a harmonious balance of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, cultivating a state of inner peace, focus, and overall personal growth.