Written by Sanchin (三戦) – Three Conflicts
One thing I am learning over the years I have been training in karate is I have just really scratched the surface. The depth of our own Isshinryu codes and the dimensions of possible interpretations seem endless. And these codes in turn have many layers to them, having been derived from other lineages, systems, spiritual concepts and masters who had their own experiences and interpretations that were in turn passed on to Tatsuo Shimabuku.
I am fascinated by Sanchin kata and the meaning of “Three conflicts” – Mind (Heaven), Body (Earth) and Spirit (Heart). I think it is centered on finding a semblance of balance in the moment of multiple yet interrelated forces pushing and pulling at us in unison. I am still quite inexperienced with the practice of Sanchin kata, but I can understand the essence at least conceptually of these conflicts in respect to the breathing, movements, isometric tension and then the release of this tension back to a level of bodily, mental and spiritual neutrality. Everything that exists is a form of energy.
To this point in practicing this kata and the “conflicts” I think the most difficult part for me is my mind and being too easily distracted by what is occurring around me while focusing too much energy on the body and physical movements and tension. But this is EXACTLY why we practice kata and refine as we go; and in the case of Sanchin, maybe balance.