Our Mission
At Traditions, we are dedicated to empowering individuals through the art of Tang Soo Do. Our mission is to cultivate discipline, confidence, and respect in a supportive community. We strive to foster physical fitness and mental resilience, providing students of all ages with the skills to face challenges both in and out of the Do Jang. Through expert instruction, personal growth, and a commitment to excellence, we aim to inspire a lifelong journey of self-improvement and mastery. Together, we build not just martial artists, but leaders and positive role models in life.
Tang soo Do Philosophy
- Mastering self-To gain spiritual power, one must master self and conquer physical limitations.
- Self-awareness-The ultimate purpose of Tang Soo Do is to develop strong spirit and self-awareness to supplement physical skills.
- Unifying body, mind, and spiritThe goal is to develop and unify these three basic elements through serious, dedicated, and honest training.
- Harnessing the power of “Ki” or “Chi”To discover how to isolate and harness the limitless power of “Ki” or “Chi” that resides within each of us.
In essence, Tang Soo Do begins with physical training aimed at enhancing health and self-defense, ultimately evolving into a philosophical practice that helps individuals uncover their true potential. This journey fosters significant personal power and spiritual strength, often referred to as “spirit.”
Viewed in this light, Tang Soo Do presents a paradox: to attain spiritual power, one must master oneself and overcome physical limitations. These two aspects operate both together and independently. For those who genuinely aspire to become masters in Tang Soo Do, mere technical skill is insufficient. It is essential to transcend these techniques and, more importantly, to grasp the essence of non-physical power—specifically, the power of spirit. A true Tang Soo Do practitioner continually seeks to learn the philosophy while honing their physical abilities.
The Core Philosophy of Tang Soo Do
While we practice techniques to defend against physical threats, our ultimate aim—though sometimes obscured—is to cultivate a strong spirit and self-awareness that enhance our physical skills. When achieved, the Tang Soo Do practitioner can render violence and conflict powerless through their personal power. This personal power, also known as self-mastery, embodies a mental attitude that is both calm and adaptable; steadfast yet open to challenges. A student develops a mindset capable of reacting intuitively to any situation, leading to confidence in the face of injustice.
The Meaning of “DO” in Tang Soo Do
“DO” in Tang Soo Do translates literally to “way” or “path,” but its significance extends far beyond this basic interpretation. The philosophy of Tang Soo Do is deeply intertwined with the concept of “DO,” representing a righteous journey forward. To grasp this fully, we can explore the historical context of “DO.”
The concept is linked to the renowned Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu (Li Er), whose ideas form the foundation of Taoism. His teachings emphasized simple dialectics and embodied the philosophy of healthy living, personal cultivation, and breathing exercises (Ki Kong), which can be traced back to his writings, including the Tao Te Ching. Lao Tzu believed that all things in the universe are in constant motion and that opposites—such as weak and strong, soft and hard—can transform into one another. He observed, “things will reverse when carried to extremes; prosperity at its peak inevitably gives way to decline.” This principle applies to both nature and humanity.
Such insights into motion and growth have motivated later generations to engage actively in physical training rather than succumb to stagnation. Following the natural order is central to Lao Tzu’s approach to health and well-being. He proposed that humans must align themselves with the laws of nature to flourish, stating, “man follows the law of the ‘way,’ and the ‘way’ follows the law of nature.” He advocated for simplicity and moderation over selfish desires. Enlightened thinkers emphasized tranquility, self-cultivation, and healthy living to promote longevity and happiness, reflecting Lao Tzu’s ideology.
One of Lao Tzu’s key contributions is his principle of “Prevention First.” He advised, “address potential problems while they are manageable, and act on significant matters before they become overwhelming.” He believed that “nature is the ultimate truth,” and that the universe adheres to natural laws, which embodies the essence of “DO.”