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Where to get a sword for your WeaponUP sword yoga practice?

[Japanese style sword] Diving Deep into the World of Swords Welcome to a special edition of our blog dedicated to the elegant and empowering world of swords. Whether you're a seasoned martial artist or just beginning your journey with us at WeaponUP, understanding the various types of swords will help you discover the best one for your practice. At WeaponUP, we blend the ancient arts of Kung Fu and Tai Chi with the rhythmic movements of Vinyasa Yoga, using the graceful Kung Fu Jian/Tai Chi straight sword. This sword is not just a tool for physical exercise; it's a conduit for achieving balance and harmony within your practice acting as an extension of the body.  Here’s a quick guide to familiarize you with different types of swords and their unique characteristics: • Katana: Known for its curved blade, this Japanese sword symbolizes the Samurai spirit, designed for swift and precise cuts. • Longsword: A European sword with a long, double-edged blade ideal for a variety of fighting techniques. • Sabre: A curved sword optimized for quick, sweeping motions, traditionally used by cavalry. • Rapier: A slender, pointed blade that emphasizes precision and agility, perfect for thrusting attacks. • Scimitar: Often used in belly dancing, this Middle Eastern saber is great for showcasing precision and balance. • Cutlass: Associated with pirates, this short, broad saber adds an authentic touch to themed performances. • Broadsword: A large, double-edged blade used in Western martial arts and reenactments. • Kung Fu Broadsword (Dao): Closely related to the Tai Chi straight sword, this is a staple in Chinese martial arts. Spotlight on the Kung Fu Jian / Tai Chi Straight Sword Our WeaponUP practice revolves around the Kung Fu Jian, also known as the Tai Chi straight sword. This lightweight, semi-flexible sword not only allows for dynamic movement but also produces a captivating sound during swings, enhancing the sensory experience of your practice. Choosing Your Sword While we work to provide you with the perfect Jian swords at our upcoming online store, here are some current recommendations for those looking to purchase their first practice sword: • Beginner Jian: Opt for durable yet lightweight Tai Chi practice swords. These often come with a tassel and scabbard, enhancing the overall experience. • Training Swords: Foam or wooden swords are excellent for beginners to practice safely. • Light Sabers: A modern twist that fits perfectly with our practice. If you enjoy them, they're a fun alternative! Sword Recommendations for Every WeaponUP Practitioner At WeaponUP, we want to ensure that everyone finds the perfect sword to enhance their practice. Here are some carefully selected options that cater to different needs and budgets: Economical Choice: • Wushu Kungfu Straight Sword (Jian) - Priced at $39.95, this is the most economical choice available. It meets the basic specifications for the WeaponUP practice but is less durable, making it suitable for beginners who practice less frequently. Perfect for women above 5'3", as they should opt for sword lengths of 29 inches and above. View Here • If you are under 5'3 I would suggest a sword length of 26 - 29 inches. Mid-Range Quality: • Han Ding Traditional Kungfu Straight Sword (Firm Blade) - For $49.95, this sword comes with its sheath, offering better quality and durability. Recommended for women above 5'3", with a sword length of 29 inches and above, making it a reliable choice for regular practice. View Here • DaYe Professional Kung Fu Training Sword - At $69.99, this sword is on the higher end of the mid-range spectrum but provides excellent durability. It's ideal for adults who are 5'3" and above, with recommended blade lengths of 29-30 inches. View Here • If you are under 5'3 I would suggest a sword length of 26 - 29 inches. High-End Performance: • Competition Grade Wushu Straight Sword (Wooden Handle) - This option, priced at $88.95, offers a less flexible but much more durable blade. Although listed as “Men’s,” the sword lengths of 29-32 inches are suitable for women as well, providing a higher grade of performance and durability. View Here • Competition Wushu Straight Sword (Metal Handle) - At $98.99, this is a premium choice that comes with multiple accessories for easy transport and embellishment. Recommended for all adults 5'3" and above, seeking top-tier quality and performance. View Here • If you are under 5'3 I would suggest a sword length of 26 - 29 inches. Understanding and selecting the right sword is crucial for maximising your practice at WeaponUP. The perfect sword is out there waiting for you.

Sabina

The WeaponUP Balance Series

Welcome to our blog series where we highlight some of the different movements you can expect out of the WeaponUP practice. Kicking things off, let’s explore the world of WeaponUP Balance. This series is all about blending the stillness and focus of hatha yoga with the dynamic precision of straight sword postures. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a budding sword martial arts enthusiast, the WeaponUP Balance offers a unique challenge that bridges these two complementary practices beautifully. What Is The WeaponUP Balance Series? The WeaponUP Balance series is more than just your average workout; it’s a specialized approach created to enhance both mental and physical stability. By incorporating a straight sword into traditional balance postures, you’ll find yourself engaged in a practice that demands deep concentration and exceptional control. It sounds simple, but believe me, it’s quite the challenge. Incorporating the sword in these poses adds a new level of difficulty, helping you develop sharper focus and greater body awareness. Imagine holding your balance with the added weight of the sword—it really tests your core stability and mental focus! Photos From Our WeaponUP Encyclopaedia: Sword Tree and Sword Warrior Three [Sword Tree Pose (Vrksasana)] In “Sword Tree Pose”, you’ll experience a unique blend of stability and grace. Holding the sword overhead or by your side, this pose challenges your balance and engages your core like never before. The added (slight) weight of the sword enhances the traditional Tree Pose, requiring deeper focus and a stronger connection to your center.[Sword Warrior III (Virabhadrasana III)] Sword Warrior III elevates the classic Warrior III pose by incorporating the straight sword. Extending the sword forward as you balance on one leg, this pose demands exceptional control and concentration. It intensifies the workout for your core and legs while fostering a heightened sense of body awareness and precision. Benefits Of The Balance Series: • Improved Focus and Concentration: Handling the sword requires your undivided attention, turning each session into a powerful mental exercise. • Enhanced Core Stability and Balance: Maintaining your posture while managing the sword really fires up those core muscles, more so than in traditional yoga practices. • Connection of Mind and Body: The deliberate and controlled movements foster a deep connection between your mind and body, enhancing the overall quality of your practice. Try This Five Minute WeaponUP Balance Flow with Me Join me for a quick flow where we go through key balance poses with the sword. It’s a fantastic way to get a taste of how the sword integrates into and enhances yoga poses. [Free Five Minute Sword Yoga Flow] We’ve aimed to create a practice that helps both newcomers and seasoned practitioners refine their skills and embrace new challenges. I invite you to step onto the mat and experience the transformative power of the WeaponUP Balance for yourself. Whether you’re looking to enhance your martial arts technique or deepen your yoga practice, this series promises to bring new levels of stability and serenity to your routine.  Join us at WeaponUP and master the art of balance with the straight sword! Stay tuned for more from this blog series as we explore Flex, Sculpt, and Grace, each offering unique benefits and challenges to enhance your practice!

Sabina

The WeaponUP Flex Series

Hey everyone! Welcome back to our blog series where I dive into the different movements you can expect from the WeaponUP practice. Today, we’re exploring the WeaponUP Flex series, which is all about stretching your limits—literally! This series combines dynamic yoga poses with traditional sword movements to open up your heart and hips, making you more agile and flexible. If you love yoga or are into martial arts, you’ll find this series super rewarding. What is the WeaponUP Flex Series? Think of the WeaponUP Flex as your go-to for flexibility training, but with a twist—adding a straight sword into the mix. It might sound a bit intimidating, but trust me, it’s a game-changer for deepening your stretches. The added coordination and weight of the sword helps extend your reach and intensifies each pose. From our WeaponUP Encyclopedia: Sword Dancer and Sword Camel [Sword Dancer]This sword yoga posture combines the flexibility, heart and hip opening of the dancer pose with different sword combinations. [Sword Camel]This sword yoga posture combines the flexibility and back opening of the camel pose with different sword combinations.  Incorporating the sword in these poses not only challenges your traditional practice but also spices it up, making you focus more than you might in a typical yoga class. Benefits of Sword Yoga and the Flex Series: • Increased Flexibility and Agility: You’ll notice a significant improvement in how deep you can go into poses with the added resistance of the sword. • Enhanced Heart and Hip Opening: These areas can be tight due to sitting or daily activities; our series specifically targets these to improve overall wellbeing. • Mind and Body Coordination: Handling the sword while engaging in deep stretches requires a level of coordination that really ties together your physical and mental practice. Try This FREE Ten-Minute WeaponUP Flex Basics Flow with Me Join me in a quick FREE session of WeaponUP Flex where we dive into the “Flying Pigeon”. This class is a ten minute session focusing specifically on the overhead flower mixed with the flying pigeon posture, opening the hips and training your sword skills! [WeaponUP Flex Flying Pigeon.mp4] We’re always adding new workshops and special classes to help both beginners and long-time practitioners advance their skills and tackle new challenges. I encourage you to come and try out the WeaponUP Flex series for yourself. Whether you’re aiming to improve your martial arts flexibility or want to add a new layer to your yoga routine, this series is designed to bring a new level of challenge and excitement to your practice.  Come join us at WeaponUP and stretch your way to a more flexible you with the straight sword! Stay tuned for the next entries in this series where we’ll dive into the Sculpt and Grace series, each with its unique blend of movements and benefits.

Sabina

Living and Training like Shaolin Monk in the Mountains of China: Six Lessons that still serve me a decade later.

[The Great Wall of China]Over a decade ago, I made a choice that veered sharply from the expected path. At 20 years old my academic and personal struggles had culminated in a profound sense of failure, driving me to seek discipline and self-understanding far from what I was used to. This search for meaning led me to study as a Shaolin monk in a kung fu academy in the mountains of China, a decision that reshaped my understanding of life, discipline, and personal growth. It was there that I would grow the seeds for the six lessons that still remain with me, a decade later, a strong yoga practice and multiple external achievements. 1. The Power of Starting The initial steps of any journey are met with resistance, both external and internal. My arrival in China was fraught with challenges, from financial to physical disorientation. I was lost for 48 hours, afraid I signed up for a scam when I couldn’t find the school and was ready to hightail it back to Toronto that very first night. Yet, looking back, these obstacles underscored the first crucial lesson of perseverance at the onset of a new endeavor. Like a physical law, initiating movement requires overcoming inertia, teaching me the value of resilience from day one. Similarly in yoga practice the initial resistance we feel when trying a new pose is not just physical but also mental. Overcoming this inertia is our first victory. 2. There's No Single Way to Live Your Life Living among monks and other students, I realized the beauty of diversity in life's journeys. Our societal narratives often dictate a linear progression: education, career, family. However, witnessing all the diverse backgrounds and journeys of my fellow monks revealed the richness of embracing one's unique path. When you are unbound by conventional expectations, you begin to craft your own path, much like yoga practice allows you to listen to your body and follow that internal guidance. You also begin to see that what we have been told is not necessarily how it has to be. You can be unique and innovative in your approach to life, but often we are not because we have never been exposed to other walks of life that we find inspirational. I was lucky enough to enter a society outside the general narrative and find beauty in this school that taught me my path didn’t have to be linear. [Sabina training the Wudang sword with Master Wu.] 3. Perfect Practice makes Perfect True mastery comes from perfect practice, not just repetition. Everyday discipline and consistency in training showed me the distinction between mere practice and perfect practice. Committing fully to each moment rather than half-hearted participation, fostered not only skill but a profound inner transformation. This lesson in dedication and focus transcends physical training and applies universally to both professional and personal pursuits. It is the commitment and the discipline that you bring to a practice that transforms us. It's about giving our all, in every moment, to truly evolve. 4. Confidence Through Discipline The daily eight hour training schedule straightened more than just my posture; it strengthened my confidence. Putting myself through challenging situations and overcoming them every single day gave me a confidence nothing had given me to that point. It allowed me to stand tall, walk with pride and take up space without hesitation. Seeing these changes in myself and other students also highlighted the lesson that confidence does not come from empty words and affirmations, but from doing difficult things and overcoming them. Similarly with a dedicated yoga practice, self-confidence is a very positive side effect of asana. [Sabina during a power stretching training!] 5. Embrace Life with Lightness Perhaps the most surprising lesson came from observing the joy and lightness with which my most respected master approached life; a man in his seventies with the ability to do the splits as if he was 22. Despite the seriousness of our training, he taught me the importance of not taking oneself too seriously, placing laughter and light-heartedness even in the most serious tasks. This balance between discipline and joy has become a cornerstone of how I approach challenges and setbacks. It is also a reminder to approach our yoga practice with a light heart, finding joy in each breath and movement. The goal is to enjoy the journey not long after the destination. 6. Avoid Complacency The final lesson I learned was to never settle and never to rest on one’s laurels.  Being 'smart but lazy' was a trap I fell into, thinking talent alone was enough. But in yoga, as in life, continuous effort and dedication to growth are what truly define us. Reflecting on these lessons a decade later, their impact extends far beyond the physical confines of the academy. They have shaped my approach to life, work, and personal growth, serving as a compass through challenges and decisions. As I navigate the complexities of the world, the principles of discipline, resilience, authenticity, dedication, joy, and continuous effort remain my guiding lights. In sharing these lessons, I hope to inspire others to embrace their unique journeys, confront challenges with resilience and joy, and pursue personal growth with discipline and openness. Remember, the path to self-discovery and fulfillment is both arduous and beautiful, paved with lessons learned from every step of the journey.[Sabina during a kung fu grading in front of the different Shaolin masters.]

Sabina

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