Mind Body Breakthroughs

From: Robert LaPointe
Subject: I'm 3 for 7. How 'bout you?
Date: 7/4/2004 10:08 AM

The response to my offer on the Shaolin Fitness Secrets book has been great. If you want one, you'd best jump on it today.

Onward -

I came across a list in my hand writing last week. It was in the bottom of my sock drawer/filing cabinet.

It's a good list, and it doesn't surprise me at all that I copied it down, way back whenever. Another thing that doesn't surprise me - but does leave me confused - is that I didn't write down where I got the list, or what exactly it is a list of.

I think it's a list of what it takes to be successful, or be mentally healthy, or get along with others, or be a good parent, or be just a generally more likable, fun person, or something along those lines.

Anyway, read it and I think you'll agree that whatever it's for, it's a heck of a list.

* Self-motivate * Persist against frustration * Delay gratification * Regulate mood * Hope * Empathize * Control impulse

Maybe it has something to do with maturity. Hmmmmm.

I've used each of those many-a-time.

I've just never used them all at once . . . which may be what's holding me back. I think the most I've ever used at one time was 3. I can recall specific situations in which I self-motivated, persisted, and hoped but, dang it, failed to regulate my mood, or control my impulse!

If you've ever been the same way, I can definitely empathize.

So don't worry about it. But do keep trying.

Become a juggernaut of self-improvement -- the little engine that could (persist against frustration, etc. etc.). And be modest in your habits as you delay that gratification. Ever the considerate one, loath to offend, striving to please, you self-motivate toward a slimmer, richer, more erudite, better dressed version of your current self. You can do it.

And if you should hit a bit shy of the mark, it's alright. In martial arts neither the practice nor the practitioner are ever perfect . . . but we stick with it, whatever our limitations, and move forward in invisible increments, and that's where the benefits come from -- not from scoring 7 out of 7.

In our next "Summer Fun" issue: Bar fights!

Train like you mean it,

Rob LaPointe

P.S. Shaolin Fitness Secrets is everything you're looking for in a traditional Kung Fu workout, and then some. Check out this email I received yesterday:

The tips for creating a fun, focused workout I found in Shaolin Fitness Secrets really helped me put more energy into my routine, and I've experienced immediate results. The exercises I found in the book are true to the title- Hardcore! I've seen the most dramatic difference in my ability to balance myself because of the Shaolin exercise Crane Stands Still. I improved within my first few reps, and in 3 days, my balance has improved significantly.

Joe Tierney

Thanks, Joe. Since you're so interested in balance, one of these days I need to teach you the one finger hand stand!