Grandmaster Tae Yun Kim on exercise and nutrition

Let’s stay on the topic of exercise and nutrition for a moment. We all, as Martial Artists, know the importance of keeping ourselves fit and agile and in good shape. Even if we are so busy with other things, we must never forget our foundation and root. Our body and mind are one. Because your body is connected with your mind, bringing your body under control means bringing your mind under control. And vice versa, of course. Whatever disciplines you apply to your mind affect your body.
Since your body and mind are connected, you can use physical exercise to help purify your mind. Remember, when you purify your mind and body, you increase your energy. And you purify your mind and body by doing everything you can to remove limitation. Because body and mind are one, when you overcome physical limitation, you simultaneously overcome mental limitation.

It’s a two-way process. For instance, when you encourage your body to go the extra mile around the track, one more mile than you did the day before, you’re sending a message to your mind that says, “I can grow; I can change; I can break limits.” This good message that your mind receives when you demand extra performance from your body then goes on to encourage even better performance, and not just in running. The message will now extend to other areas of your life. “I can grow; I can change; I can break limits” could also help you create new and better procedures at work that result in a promotion or better position.

Remember at all times, that your body deserves respect. It is the most elegant creation you possess. Your body is the embodiment of ideas in your Silent Master consciousness. Just as you learn to use your mind properly, think of how important it is, then, to use and care for your body with the same respect and holiness you give your spiritual consciousness. How? Just as you properly use and exercise your thought, so you should properly use and exercise your body. You’ve begun to learn that there is much more you can do with your mind; don’t you think there is much more you can do with your body?