The coronavirus situation has been difficult for everyone in different ways.  For those who become infected, the consequences can range from asymptomatic and unaffected to very ill and devastated.  Those of us who are not infected by the virus are faced with a variety of inconveniences.  These are things like quarantines, wearing masks, restricted travel, or being unable to enjoy our favorite restaurant or sports events. 
Aside from the somewhat obvious, there can be some more hidden effects for many of us as the situation drags on.  Not the least of these are the way that the pandemic effects us mentally and emotionally.  Many people are now having to deal with the consequences of a long period of reduced activities and socialization, boredom, and fear.  All of this can leave us struggling with increased levels of stress, anxiety, depression and even PTSD or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.  They are also prone to something called COVID fatigue or ZOOM fatigue.  This is the ‘burnout’ we can experience from the long term consequences related to the pandemic. 
Now, more than ever, is a good time to commit to martial arts training.  Practicing martial arts has all of the benefits of other fitness activities but tends to reduce our stress, anxiety, and depression more.  There are several reasons for this.  First, intense physical exercise stimulates body chemistry to make us healthier and happier.    Punching, kicking, and throwing things also tends to purge stress by venting our frustrations and addressing the ’fight-or-flight’ instincts triggered under stress.  But just as importantly, martial arts training typically includes a regular practice of focus, calmness and stability.  Regular training in this mindful physical activity is designed to help us extend these crucial traits into every aspect of our lives.
All of these aspects of martial arts practice can have a synergistic effect and make a huge difference in how we process the world and react to the things that happen from day to day.  Even as the crazy ‘rollercoaster’ of 2020 plays out, we can stay calm, focused and happy.  We can avoid emotional crashes and the feeling of helplessness.
All of the classes at ZenQuest include mindful activity that will reduce stress and help students ‘stay up’ in their mental and emotional state.  Even with the restrictions on training that are required at this time, classes are continuing to provide this essential training.  In fact, some aspects of the current class modifications require a heightened sense of mindfulness and provide new perspective on a student’s chosen art.  
So, as Sensei Toshio Higa used to say, “please continue” your training through this challenging time.  If you’ve thought about training in the past but haven't actually started, do yourself a favor and consider doing so now.  Learn to ‘stay up’ in your life!

With ‘back-to-school’ now upon us and the fall season around the corner, parents normally sort out their children’s activities for this time.  But, this year brings uncharted territory and uncertainty for many parents and kids.  With continuing concerns about the Coronavirus, many school systems are starting the year with some or all learning via remote learning.  This is expected to possibly continue until there is a vaccine and/or cure for the virus and experts are predicting that this will likely take months. 
With these remote learning or hybrid models children are faced with struggling with excess screen-time and greatly reduced activity levels.  In view of this new reality, having kids get out for in-person activities in a very controlled environment will be more important than ever.  With strict safety precautions in place, children CAN reap the benefits of physical activity and socialization.
ZenQuest is prepared to strike a balance between safety and activity for kids during this time.  With social distancing, face coverings, temperature checks, limited class sizes and durations, controlled foot traffic, positive ventilation, extensive cleaning and sanitizing, and appropriate activities, we are confident that we can provide our children’s classes while also minimizing risks.  We believe that kids can have some relief from the unique challenges they’re faced with in the coming months and are prepared to help.  For a full listing of the safety measures being used at ZenQuest please visit our website at www.zenquestmac.com. 
Please contact us ASAP if you plan on having your children attend classes during this time.  Class reservations are on a ‘first come first served’ basis.  Due to controlled class sizes there is limited space available in our children’s classes at this time.  We are looking at adjustments to the schedule to accommodate as many students as possible.  Let us know if you have any questions or concerns in this matter.  As always thanks for your continuing understanding and support.

With limitations on class sizes and several classes full or nearly full at ZenQuest, we are looking at ways to accommodate as many students as possible.  We’ve already made some adjustments to the class schedule and are planning on more of these based on current trends in enrollment.  At present, the most space available is in our younger children’s Karate classes (Tigers, Jr. Tigers and Cranes) and Teen level Karate classes (Cobras.)  There is also plenty of space in our “Martial Arts Strength’ or strength and conditioning classes. 
Depending on how class attendance plays out over the next few weeks, we will add classes and possibly temporarily convert weaker classes to accommodate the overflow from others. 
We are also considering a reconfiguration of the training space at ZenQuest for this purpose.  For some time now, we have thought about converting the space in the ‘fitness room’ to additional mat space.  Doing this now would allow us to increase the limits on some classes.
Stay tuned for these adjustments over the coming weeks.