Silvio Moraes of the Demian Maia Jiu-jitsu Academy in Brazil recently visited ZenQuest to provide TWO amazing seminars.  On Friday the 16th Silvio taught a group of local Law Enforcement Officers important techniques strategies for staying safe on and off duty.  The 3rd Degree Black Belt shared some of his experiences as an officer for many years in Sao Paulo, Brazil where the level of crime and rules of engagement are different.   
Then on Saturday, February 17th Silvio covered a bunch of amazing strategies in an open seminar that it will take weeks to process.  These included some techniques using a way to control an opponent on the ground called the 'Lasso Guard'. 
A nice group showed up each of the clinics and were very happy with the material that Silvio covered.  Huge thanks to Professor Silvio for making another trip to ZenQuest, and special thanks to everyone who took advantage of these incredible opportunities.

By Chat GPT
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Martial arts, with its kicks, punches, and disciplined moves, is more than just a physical practice. When combined with the ancient wisdom of Zen philosophy, it becomes a powerful force for personal growth and balance. This essay explores the benefits of incorporating Zen into martial arts, showing how it goes beyond fighting techniques to shape the mind, body, and spirit.
Zen, at its core, teaches us to be completely present in the moment. In the martial arts, this means focusing all of our attention on the task at hand. Whether it's a kick, a block, or a throw being fully present allows martial artists to perform at their best. This mindfulness doesn't just apply in the training hall but can also help in our everyday lives, making us more aware and alert.
The connection between Zen and martial arts goes deeper than physical movements. Zen in martial arts places a strong emphasis on simplicity and efficiency. The art of refinement is central to Zen philosophy, and in the martial arts, practitioners are encouraged to streamline movements and eliminate unnecessary actions. This principle is evident in many martial arts where technical fluid motions aim to redirect an opponent's force rather than confront it head-on. The efficiency and precision achieved through Zen-inspired refinement result in not only superior technique but also reduced physical strain, enabling practitioners to execute powerful maneuvers with minimal effort.
Imagine a graceful dance where every step has a purpose. This is how Zen-inspired martial artists move – with efficiency and precision. By eliminating unnecessary actions, martial artists conserve energy and execute moves with more power. It's like learning to write with a smooth and controlled hand, making every stroke count.
Martial arts training isn't just about physical strength; it's also about emotional resilience. This is where Zen philosophy comes in, teaching practitioners to find balance and control their emotions. In the face of a challenge, a martial artist with a Zen mindset stays calm and composed. This emotional control is a valuable skill not just in the training hall but in everyday life. It helps us face difficulties with a clear mind and a strong spirit.
The benefits of Zen in martial arts also extend to personal development. It's not just about becoming a better fighter; it's about becoming a better person. Martial artists on a Zen-inspired journey discover more about themselves – their strengths, weaknesses, and the connection between their mind and body. This self-awareness leads to personal growth, making them not only skilled fighters but also compassionate individuals.
Holistic development means looking beyond the physical aspects of martial arts. It involves nurturing values like humility, respect, and compassion. Imagine a martial artist who not only performs powerful kicks but also treats opponents and fellow practitioners with kindness. This holistic approach to personal development sets the foundation for a strong character, creating individuals who are not only skilled in their art but are also good-hearted and respectful.
In conclusion, the benefits of Zen in martial arts are profound and extend far beyond physical techniques. By incorporating mindfulness, refining techniques, cultivating emotional balance, and embracing holistic personal development, martial artists on a Zen-inspired journey embark on a path of self-discovery and growth. This combination of ancient wisdom and martial arts creates individuals who are not only skilled fighters but also balanced, compassionate, and resilient human beings.

The next round of ‘Advanced Concepts’ clinics for Karate, Muay Thai, and Jiu-jitsu at ZenQuest  have been scheduled.  These will happen as follows:
 
Uechi-Ryu Karate (for Brown Belt and above) -- Saturday, March 16
Sityodtong Muay Thai (for 2-Stripe White Prajiet and above) -- Saturday, April 13
Demian Maia Jiu-jitsu (for Blue Belt and above) -- Saturday, April 27
 
These are all schedule to begin at 1:15 PM and each last about 90 minutes.  ZenQuest’s Advanced Concepts clinics are a great opportunity for our intermediate and advanced students to learn and practice advanced techniques and strategies in their respective art(s). ZenQuest’s AC clinics are provided to enrolled students at no extra cost. All eligible students or those receiving special invitation are encouraged to attend!

Each winter the weather will produce snow and ice on occasion and create hazardous travel conditions during scheduled class times at ZenQuest.  When that happens we will cancel classes for the safety of our students and instructors.  Historically, we have sent out mass emails and posted messages on social media to notify students, parents, and instructors.  More recently we decided to develop a text alert system for these and other notifications.  In 2024 approximately 20% of people open email notices like these, but 90% open text alerts.
At this point we have made the plans needed to set up a text messaging system to alert students of important developments related to the dojo.  This will include power outage closures, links to our monthly newsletter, and other announcements...but will primarily be for weather closures.  However, since the 2023/2024 winter season is now ending, we’ve decided to delay starting this until later in the year.
Interested students will have an opportunity to ‘opt into’ receiving these notifications soon, and have the ability to discontinue at any time.  We will revisit this in August and September and if you are interested in receiving ZenQuest’s text alerts, you can let us know at that time.  Thanks for your patience on this!