What does it mean to use everything? Is it to scream, groan and strain? Is it to feel utterly spent at the end on an ordeal? If we use the outcome of those who do the above as some sort of indication, probably not.

Through meditation and training, we can start to know ourselves. Everything from the discovery of the multiple facets of our minds, the suppleness and freedom of our joints, the purpose of our structure has during movement, to our relationship with the rest of the universe.

There are endless ways to delve deep and discover our potential. We can break down and perform an analysis of movement. We can use moments of self reflection to reveal the cogs which turn in our minds in an attempt to preserve our egos. We can view ourselves as important specks of the universe and give in to the ebb and flow of things.

Our minds cannot fathom the complexity and paradoxical simplicity of our existence, and probably never will, however there are reams and reams of opinions and research on the topic. As O-Sensei said...

“The path is exceedingly vast. From ancient times

to the present day, even the greatest sages

were unable to perceive and comprehend

the entire truth;

the explanations and teaching of masters

and saints express only part of the whole.

It is not possible for anyone to speak

of such things in their entirety.

Just head for the light and heat,

learn from the gods,  and through

the virtue of devoted practice of the

Art of Peace, become one with the Divine.”

As we become more comfortable in our skins, and understand or accept the workings of our minds and bodies, we have the chance to let each aspect of ourselves work to its fullest potential. Like the free-moving cogs and parts of a well oiled engine, each has its purpose and attributes. Some parts are made from flexible springs, some are hardened polished steel, others are brittle aluminium. Some parts are susceptible to rust, others are unable to withstand impact, and some are incredibly heavy. For an engine to spin over efficiently, the parts work ‘together’... which at times is purposely against each other.

Likewise, the bits and pieces which form our minds and bodies must be allowed to exhibit their individual traits. Our minds should be allowed to expand and contract in an instant. Our hips made supple enough to tilt and turn as required. Our breath fill our lungs and extend our presence, and then turn and be directed into a screeching kiai. Our eyes should burn piercingly one instant and melt into a soft gaze the next. Our joints need to work together redirecting forces and controlling space. The potential for creative exploration goes on and on, filling years and years of training.

I urge you with the new year to turn over a new leaf and find an intelligent way to do all things. Using the all, not in a simplistic show of human strength, but to truly use the wonder built into each of us. Once you discover this new way for yourself throw away old habits and make it the only way.