Martial Systems trained within Sigma-Cybernetics Training and discussed in the Potato Chipper

Martial arts have long been celebrated for their physical benefits, but they also offer profound mental and emotional healing. In a world where stress and anxiety are common, the practice of martial skills can be a powerful tool for self-improvement. This blog post will explore how you can master martial skills and embrace self-healing through the unique lens of The Potato Chipper.

I predominantly practice the Internal Chinese systems of Xing Yi and Bagua Zhang along with Muay Boran Old Thai Boxing. I mix in the systems of Chow Gar Southern Praying Mantis, Kalaripayattu (an old Indian system) and Submission Grappling. I had previously fought in Chinese and Freestyle rules Kick Boxing contests along with Shuai Jiao Jacket Wrestling and Tai Chi Chuan competitions, inclusive of representing the United Kingdom as the governing body British Champion in the Danish Open and European Championships.

Although the above may appear quite extensive, I still have a lot to learn, and on departing from active, 'sporting' competition, I realised what gaps can appear, when you repeatedly enter the same format of competition, and fight against a similar type of opponent, utilising known tactics and strategies.

For this reason, I liked entering "OPEN" events, where individuals would enter from all manner of disciplines, and you had no idea what would present itself in front of you.

As an example, in 2003, I fought against a former British Judo Champion in the (similar) discipline of Shuai Jiao, Chinese Jacket Wrestling. I had studied a bit of Judo in the early 2000s but with Shuai Jiao, my competitors until I had fought the aforementioned former Judo champion would try to knock you off balance by FIRSTLY pulling your upper body down or ripping your jacket to the right or left prior to attacking your lower limbs and with a sweep to 'down you'. I must admit that I would employ this tactic.

However, during the above bout, my opponent, literally just deftly moved brushed past my arms, stepping into the gap between my right arm and core, placing his hip slightly behind mine, and before I knew it, I was up in the air and landing on the mat. I learned quickly and made sure that on his next attempt, I wrapped him up and took him with me. He still won the bout on points and took the Gold, leaving me with a Silver. The moral of this little story was that, an experienced Judoka would have known what was coming, because he/she would have recognised that pattern of motion, of attack or strategy. I had not practiced Judo for several years', so required a jolt to see it. SO; What you are UNAWARE of may defeat you, therefore, cover you bases and absorb as much as you can about your competitors.

Moreover, understand, that Martial systems are an INSURANCE policy, in cases of Self-Defence. If you can extract yourself with good verbal skills, where you know how to stand your ground but give the person, space to save face (ie: don't embarrass them), or get out quickly, preferably by identifying a tense situation that is about to escalate and 'getting out' of it. Then remember, if you survive any kind of tense situation, then you have 'SUCCESSFULLY' negotiated your way out of a potentially violent situation.

NOTE: A former Longmoor trained Close Protection Officer from the British Royal Military Police, which is one of the top three CP organisations in the World outlined to me how "Close Protection/Bodyguarding is just observation and where necessary, organised running away..." The US Secret Service charged with guarding the President of the USA and the Royal Protection Group of the UK Metropolitan Police would doubtless agree.

Returning to Martial Arts (with a little bit of Bodyguarding), "you will ignore the Law of Threes" at your peril. If you're advancing on a target and just continuously throwing forward punches, once the third punch is thrown, your adversary, if they are not fatigued, and know what they are about, will be able to counter. You must switch the angle of attack, of start using your legs, or go for a throw, to break the pattern.

The Potato Chipper is not just a quirky name; it symbolizes the blend of discipline, creativity, and healing that martial arts can provide. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner, there is something valuable for everyone.

Understanding Martial Arts

Martial arts encompass a variety of fighting styles and techniques. They can be broadly categorized into two main types: striking and grappling.

• Striking: This includes styles such as Chow Gar Praying Mantis, Hsing Yi Chuan which means "Mind Intention Boxing" and is based on 5 directional powers and 12 animals. In nature, animals all have their own unique style of fighting, for defence, and to catch prey The aim of this particular branch of the style, is to mimic the spirit of the animal, not to just copy the movements. Feel the monkey's elusive, speedy footwork, interspersed with fast, powerful slaps; or there is the Falcon's clamping, swooping, taking control of the opponents wrist, with a lock, prior to a strong take-down; or the Snake, with it's elusive, deceptive flicking of its tail, prior to spiralling and escaping from attempted locks, grabs, bear-hugs... One would also highlight Muay Boran Thai Boxing (Muay Thai was derived from this) with its use of head butts, elbows, knees, fists and feet where we often condition each other, with repeated kicks to the legs and body, to harden one for combat.

  Splashing Hands is also taught, a system that is originally believed to have been taught to the Shaolin Bodyguards charged with defending the Northern Shaolin Temple Gates in the 1700s. The Splashing Hands system used practical, fast hand and foot combinations with an emphasis on the footwork. It is believed that Muhammad Ali's footwork derived from this system. The basic principles governing the use of splashing hands in a fight are to close the gap and get as close as possible to the opponent, strike first, fast and keep the striking going until your opponent is down. In reality, the fight may start, when the wind rustles the eye-brows, or the crease of your opponent's face flinches. It's methods, can also be trained to a novice so one's fighting ability can make rapid gains, inside of three months, if practiced diligently.

  Regular practice involves a syllabus of basic and advanced techniques known as Brown combinations, small cross combinations and applications worked from these for combat.

• Grappling: This includes training in Bagua Zhang, a little known, but superlative system with speedy footwork, where the body can contort to spiral out of attempted throws and holds to the well-known Brazilian Ju-Jitsu. Moreover, Shuai Jiao jacket wrestling where I have won a Silver Medal in the International Olympic Committee recognised UK National Championship, fighting a former British Judo National Champion in the Final. It would be remiss of me not to mention Kalari Indian Wrestling and Greco-Roman Wrestling where I trained alongside, and exchanged ideas with a former member of the Bulgarian Olympic squad. These arts focus on holds, throws, and submissions.

  
  

Each style has its own philosophy and techniques, but they all share a common goal: to improve the practitioner’s physical and mental well-being.

The Benefits of Martial Arts

Practicing martial arts offers numerous benefits, including:

• Physical Fitness: Regular training improves strength, flexibility, and endurance.

  
  

• Character Development/Mental Clarity: Martial arts require focus and discipline, which can enhance mental clarity and decision-making skills.

  
  

• Stress Relief: The physical activity involved in martial arts can be a great way to relieve stress and anxiety.

  
  

• Self-Defense: Learning martial arts equips you with skills to protect yourself in dangerous situations.

  
  

• Community: Joining a martial arts class fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie among practitioners.

  
  
  
  

The Healing Aspect of Martial Arts

While the physical benefits are well-known, the healing aspect of martial arts is often overlooked. Here are some ways martial arts can promote self-healing:

• Mindfulness: Practicing martial arts encourages mindfulness. You learn to be present in the moment, which can reduce anxiety and improve emotional health.

  
  

• Emotional Release: Training can serve as an outlet for pent-up emotions. The physical exertion allows you to release stress and frustration.

  
  

• Confidence Building: As you progress in your training, you gain confidence in your abilities. This newfound self-esteem can positively impact other areas of your life.

  
  

• Connection to Body: Martial arts teach you to listen to your body. This connection can lead to better self-care and awareness of your physical and emotional needs.

  
  
  
  

The Potato Chipper Philosophy

The Potato Chipper embodies a unique approach to martial arts and self-healing. It encourages practitioners to embrace creativity and playfulness in their training. Here are some key principles of The Potato Chipper philosophy:

1. Playfulness: Approach your training with a sense of fun. This can make learning new skills more enjoyable and less intimidating.

   
   

2. Creativity: Experiment with different techniques and styles. Don’t be afraid to mix things up and find what works best for you.

   
   

3. Community: Engage with others in your training. Share experiences, learn from one another, and support each other’s growth.

   
   

4. Self-Reflection: Take time to reflect on your training and personal growth. Journaling or meditating can help you process your experiences.

   
   

5. Balance: Strive for balance in your training. This includes balancing physical exertion with rest and recovery.

   
   
   
   

Practical Steps to Master Martial Skills

Now that you understand the benefits and philosophy, let’s explore some practical steps to master martial skills:

1. Find the Right Style

Start by researching different martial arts styles. Consider what resonates with you. Do you prefer striking or grappling? Are you looking for a competitive environment or a more relaxed practice?

2. Set Clear Goals

Establish specific, achievable goals for your training. This could be mastering a particular technique, improving your fitness level, or participating in a competition.

3. Consistent Practice

Consistency is key in martial arts. Aim to train regularly, whether it’s attending classes or practicing at home.

4. Seek Guidance

Find a qualified instructor who can guide you through your training. They can provide valuable feedback and help you refine your techniques.

5. Embrace Challenges

Don’t shy away from challenges. They are opportunities for growth. Whether it’s sparring with a partner or learning a difficult move, embrace the discomfort as part of your journey.

Self-Healing Techniques to Incorporate

In addition to martial arts training, consider incorporating these self-healing techniques into your routine:

1. Meditation

Spend a few minutes each day meditating. Focus on your breath and allow your thoughts to settle. This practice can enhance your mindfulness and emotional well-being.

2. Journaling

Keep a journal to document your training progress and emotional experiences. Writing can help you process your thoughts and feelings.

3. Stretching

Incorporate stretching into your routine to improve flexibility and reduce tension. This can enhance your martial arts practice and promote relaxation.

4. Nutrition

Pay attention to your diet. Eating nutritious foods can fuel your body and support your training efforts.

5. Rest and Recovery

Allow time for rest and recovery. Your body needs time to heal and rebuild after training. Listen to your body and take breaks when necessary.

The Role of Community in Healing

One of the most powerful aspects of martial arts is the sense of community it fosters. Training with others can enhance your experience and provide support. Here are some ways to engage with your martial arts community:

• Join a Class: Find a local martial arts school and join a class. This is a great way to meet like-minded individuals.

  
  

• Attend Workshops: Participate in workshops or seminars to learn from experienced practitioners and expand your skills.

  
  

• Volunteer: Get involved in community events or volunteer opportunities related to martial arts. This can deepen your connection to the community.

  
  

• Share Your Journey: Share your experiences with others, whether through social media or in-person discussions. Your journey can inspire and motivate others.

  
  
  
  

Embracing the Journey

Mastering martial skills and embracing self-healing is a journey, not a destination. It requires patience, dedication, and a willingness to learn. Remember that every step you take, no matter how small, contributes to your growth.

As you embark on this journey, keep the principles of The Potato Chipper in mind. Embrace playfulness, creativity, and community. Allow yourself to grow and heal through your practice.

Final Thoughts

In a world that often feels chaotic, martial arts can provide a sense of order and purpose. The Potato Chipper philosophy encourages you to explore your potential while nurturing your mind and body.

So, whether you are looking to improve your physical fitness, relieve stress, or embark on a journey of self-discovery, martial arts can be a powerful ally. Embrace the journey, and you may find that the skills you develop extend far beyond the dojo.

A martial artist demonstrating a kick technique during training.