Karate in Italy. Matt shares his experience

We were very excited to receive the invitation from our friends at the Zenshin Group to join them and our Japanese and Italian friends for the 32nd SeidoKan meeting in Pisa in May this year. We have had the privilege of practicing with Rob Jones and the guys and girls from Zenshindojo on a few occasions in Bristol over the last year or two but the idea of renewing friendships and learning new things all in the backdrop of the Mediterranean sunshine was too much to resist.

We arrived ahead of the main group to have a day or two to acclimatise and were welcomed to Pisa by a thunderstorm and downpour - so far so good! The hospitality and friendship swept that away from day one though as we were welcomed and transported to the hotel by the very lovely Alberto. The sun arrived the next morning and, having established where to stay and, importantly, where to secure a great meal and a supply of Birra Morretti, we were good to go.

The welcome from Enzo Cellini and his group made us feel like we had been friends for years and we were quickly into a programme of practice that, whilst having several differences to 'our' styles, showed us how similar the core principles of Karatedo can be when approached with an open and exploring mind. Introducing us to the Japanese Masters and their team brought another dimension to practice. Their quiet unassuming manner belied an awesome sense of energy, strength and experience that was hard to take in initially but was totally inspiring to be in the presence of.

Daily practice followed some core themes based around the teachings and practice of Egami Sensei focussing on principles like 'Less is More' and 'Soft is not Weak' ; apparent contradictions that have to be experienced to be fully grasped (still work in progress!) Learning to engage your whole body, focus on maintaining your central core, 'strong hands' and embracing your whole surroundings into your practice were some key areas of focus.

Early morning and end of day 30 minute periods of Mokuso (kneeling meditation on the sand) were sublime times when you could allow your mind and body to let go of its busyness and re-energise with the natural surroundings.

Our biggest 'take away' (apart from pizza), was that no matter where you are on your journey in Karatedo, you can always learn more, add depth of understanding and share your own experience with others regardless of age, nationality or level. The only requirement for success is the willingness and humility to learn, share and enjoy the experience and that in 'climbing the mountain' the journey is as important as reaching the summit.

We would recommend this awesome experience to everyone and are very much looking forward to returning next year to build on the fun, learning and friendships of 2106. (assuming we're invited back that is!!)

Huge thanks to Rob J, Rob K, Lucy and Lotte at Zenshindojo and all our new friends near an far for a truly enjoyable time.