by Soo Ma Tai » Tue Jan 12, 2010 1:58 pm
Hmm, how to answer this. A flow fighter needs to have some good technique, and muscle memory built up before this style will work for them. I think some Flow fighters think about fighting, what works for them and what doesn't, but I doubt any of them "meditate" on it per se.
The Zanshin or "no mind" state is achieved through first knowing your chops, then forgetting them and allowing your body and mind to make the proper reaction without mitigating thought.
The reason you do well in 1v1's but not on the field, is lack of field awareness. Like you said, you get too focused on one opponent and loose track of everyone else. I was a martial artist, etc and had simular problems because that's how most MA groups train. I still do sometimes fall into that one man focus. Musashi makes mention of this when he states to keep your focus on the mountains beyond your opponent. What he means is if you are focusing on your opponent, instead of what is around you while staying aware of your opponent, you will fall prey to outside influences, like other fighters or terrain difficulties.
Try to engage larger groups at practice, and focus on not focusing. Don't worry about living, just keep paying attention to your surroundings. Do this until it is instinct, and you'll be fine.
Soo Ma Tai, Warmaster
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