Kicks, Kids, and Life Lessons: A Doctor’s Journey into Karate
Who would have thought that an oncologist’s prescription for family time would involve roundhouse kicks and martial arts tournaments? Five years ago, when I stepped into my first karate class with my children, little did I know we were embarking on a journey that would revolutionize our family dynamics.
Wado-ryu, our chosen style of karate, literally translates to “The Way of Harmony.” It’s an art that elegantly contradicts the typical punch-and-kick stereotype of martial arts. Founded by Hironori Ōtsuka in Japan, it embraces a philosophy that might sound familiar to my medical colleagues: the path of least resistance often yields the best results.
Unlike other martial arts that meet force with force, Wado-ryu is the martial equivalent of aikido – utilizing the attacker’s energy against them. Think of it as martial arts jiu-jitsu: why break through a wall when you can simply step aside and let your opponent’s momentum do the work?
The journey from white to brown belt hasn’t been without its amusing moments. Picture a doctor, usually in sterile whites, now trying to perfect her kicks alongside teenagers with seemingly rubber-band flexibility! But what kept me going was the unwavering support from our Masters and my family’s enthusiastic participation.
Today, as I watch my children and myself compete in tournaments together, I’m reminded that self-defence isn’t just about physical techniques – it’s about building confidence, mental resilience, and family bonds. In an era where personal safety concerns are paramount, especially for young women, I believe self-defence training should be as fundamental as any other life skill.
As both a healthcare provider and a mother, I can confidently say: sometimes the best preventive medicine comes wrapped in a Karate Gi.
About the Author: Dr. D. Sarita is a distinguished oncologist and the current Secretary of the Rotary Club of Chennai Medical Fraternity. Beyond her white coat, she champions the cause of self-defence training while balancing her roles as a medical professional, Rotarian, and mother of two.
