This week, a frank and friendly chat with verteran martial artist and founder of Tampa Systema, Kenny Gonzalez.
Before finding Systema, Kenny was a former military police officer, Army Tae Kwon Do champion, and expert instructor in both American Kenpo and Filipino Kali. He now lives, teaches, and hosts seminars in coastal, Florida. Here, he we talk about:
His personal journey, from streetfights to Systema
Meeting the masters - Vladimir Vasiliev and Mikhail Ryabko
The primacy of a strong foundation in training and fighting
Adapting to Covid, and keeping his training alive
Find out more about training with Kenny at tampasystema.com.
Mentioned in this episode:
Sign up for the 4-day Defining Moment Seminar with Martin Wheeler (Sarasota, FL, Dec 3-6) here.
SFL Episode 112: John Vervaeke
This week, an intense, mind-expanding discussion with renowned author and scientist John Vervaeke.
John is the Director of Cognitive Science at the University of Toronto, and an enthusiastic student and teacher of movement, meditation and T'ai Chi. Bridging the gap between cognitive science, cognitive psychology, and ancient philosophy, his academic work covers a wide range of topics. But he is most interested in how people create meaning and make sense of the world.
Here, we talk about:
The current "crisis of meaning" in the Western world - and some of its causes
The perennial problems: self-deception, and finding true wisdom
How movement and mindfulness work together to transform the self
Why martial arts - such as t'ai chi and Systema - provide unique insights into thought, structure, and action
This epsiode is light on the "martial", but heavy on the "psyche", and of interest to anyone who seeks answers through training.
For more information on John Vervaeke's books and lectures, follow him on Facebook here
Also mentioned in this episode:
Dia Logos Series: Voices with Vervaeke
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLND1JCRq8Vuh8TPRarb1FpwP7FSaUILC9
Awakening from the Meaning Crisis:
https://m.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLND1JCRq8Vuh3f0P5qjrSdb5eC1ZfZwWJ
Daily Meditation with John Vervaeke
SFL Episode 111: On Yoga, Systema, and Ancient Wisdom
This week, an unusual and enligthening diversion into ancient philosophies of life, health, and mind - comparing and constrasting the approaches of Systema and traditional yoga. Our guide, Systema Instructor, Yoga Instructor, and founder of Jiyu Movement Pasquale Antonio. Pas joined the ranks of NC SYSTEMA Instructors at the beginning of 2020, and his angles on Breathwork and Systema classes have made him an instant hit.
Here, we explore:
Modern vs traditional approaches to training
Tension, attitude, and authenticity in Yoga and Systema
Unifying concepts: 4 pillars, 8 limbs
The essential role of these philosophies in today's "knee jerk" society
I found this discussion fascinating and uplifting. I trust you will, too.
Pasquale Antonio is currently running online martial arts classes for kids via Outschool. Click here for details and signup.
Find out more about Pas at www.jiyu.us