Sang Kyu Shim

Promise and Fulfillment in The Art of Tae Kwon Do presents for both the serious student of the martial arts, as well as for the uninitiated general reader, a concise yet precise treatment of a subject which, though rich in heritage and tradition and valuable for both spiritual and physical fulfillment, has received relatively little written attention. This work explores the Korean art of tae kwon do from the perspective of both history and practice. The historical basis of tae kwon do is found in the vanguard of early Korea, the hwarang, whose dedication to the arts and to the virtues of sincerity and loyalty formed the spirit which has been transmitted to what is today tae kwon do. This spirit is traced through the three kingdoms period and through the various dynasties to modern-day Korea. Mr. Shim's work also give the reader a clear insight into both the spiritual attitude and the specific techniques of tae kwon do. It becomes very evident that tae kwon do is not merely knowledge of technique, but is more importantly, technique infused by what may best be described as spiritual creativity. Mr. Shim allows the reader to grasp fully this delicate balance between body and spirit. Contents About the author Foreword Preface Chapter 1 A brief hisstory of Korea Chapter 2 Cultural, social and religious development Chapter 3 Setting the stage for tae kwon do Chapter 4 Practical means to achievement Chapter 6 Conclusion Bibliography Index… (mehr)

This new book by Mr. Shim is a complete overview of the nature and role of the martial arts in everyday life. It is a deliberate expansion of his first book, Promise and Fulfillment in the Art of Tae Kwon Do, to include all the martial arts. Whether or not one is a martial arts practitioner, this book offers practical lessons in natural, harmonious living. To anyone already enrolled in a school for the art of self-defense there is background and context that will vitalize and inspirit his practice. Mr. Shim presents the martial arts as a fully integratable way of life. He combines Eastern and Western philosophies in his way of practicing the arts. Tradition and change are not mutually exclusive, but a heatlhy continuum of man's search for happiness. While holding ouit the loftiest ideals, Mr. Shim keeps ihis feet firmly planted on the ground. 'Theory must be translated into action if it is to live.' Dreams become reality, and reality suggests further dreams. The author's philosophy and social values are inherent in every choice of work and in every example. This book makes an important advance in clarifying the genuine practice of the marital arts as a way to self-actualization. Contents Introduction What are the martial arts? The martial arts: Beginnings The martial arts as arts of life The martial arts and freedom The martial arts and discipline The martial arts and transcendence The martial arts in action The martial arts: Road to destiny Meditation, concentration, focus in the martial arts The martial arts and health The martial arts and the ideal master The martial arts and character The martial arts and success Traveling with hope Bibliography Glossary Appendix: The martial arts and the Olympics General index Index of authors… (mehr)