August 2023, Kicho Il Jang, Palgwe Il Jang, and Taegeuk Il Jang
The philosophies of Kicho Il Jang (Basic one), Palgwe Il Jang, and Taegeuk Il Jang are all based on the principles of Taoism, a Chinese philosophy that emphasizes the balance of opposites and the importance of living in harmony with nature.
Kicho Il Jang, the first form in traditional Tang Soo Do/Moo Do Kwan forms, symbolizes the beginning of the universe, when all things were still and in balance. The movements in this form are slow and deliberate, representing the stillness and harmony of the universe. The philosophy of Kicho Il Jang is to find peace and tranquility in the midst of chaos.
Palgwe Il Jang, the first form in the Palgwe series, symbolizes the beginning of the universe. The movements in this form are simple and basic, representing the foundation of all things. The philosophy of Palgwe Il Jang is to view the world with clarity and understanding, and to live in harmony with the natural world.
Taegeuk Il Jang, the first form in the Taegeuk series, symbolizes the creation of all things. The movements in this form are more complex than those in Palgwe Il Jang, representing the dynamic forces of the universe. The philosophy of Taegeuk Il Jang is to embrace change and to grow as a person.
All three forms teach the importance of balance, harmony, and growth. These principles are essential to the practice of Taekwondo, and they can also be applied to everyday life.
How do the philosophies of Kicho Il Jang, Palgwe Il Jang, and Taegeuk Il Jang can be applied to everyday life:
Kicho Il Jang can teach us to be more mindful and present in the moment. When we focus on the slow, deliberate movements of this form, we can learn to let go of distractions and to focus on the here and now.
Palgwe Il Jang can teach us to be more clear-minded and understanding. As we learn to view the world with clarity and understanding, we become better equipped to deal with the challenges of life.
Taegeuk Il Jang can teach us to be more adaptable and resilient. As we learn to embrace change and to grow as a person, we become more capable of dealing with the challenges of life.
July 2023, Philosophy of the Taekwondo Belt
Before color belts, there were just white and black belts. The color belts were introduced to encourage practitioners to develop discipline, perseverance, and commitment in their training. The belt system motivates individuals to continue pursuing excellence and improvement.
The philosophy behind the Taekwondo belt system encompasses personal growth, discipline, respect, perseverance, and integrity. It serves as a framework to guide practitioners in their journey towards self-improvement, both on and off the mat.
White belt: New Beginning, a seed that has been planted
Yellow belt: A sprout, a seed that has sprouted.
Green belt: A new leaf, a sprout that has spread its wings.
Blue belt: Water/blue sky, a plant using the sun/water to grow.
Red belt: A flower, fire: A tree that blossomed its flowers, the most beautiful, strongest moment, like a flicker of fire.
Black belt: New Beginning, all the colors combined make the color black, together all your knowledge becomes a seed again, but now you are planting new seeds as a teacher.