The Ume (plum blossom) in Japanese culture stands for perseverance, hope, beauty and optimisom during times of adversity. The plum blossom blooms in late February, pushing through the snow, a sign that the harshness of winter will soon be over and the more pleasant days of spring are not far away.

We are a small, home based, non-contact, traditional Okinawan karate, Shaolin Kung-Fu, kobudo and Zen meditation training school and we practice outside  so as to fully embrace the spirit of nature, sharpen our  concentration, and strengthen our physical make up.

I am charted with the  Kobukan Karate Federation, and a member of the Okinawan Matsusokan Traditional Karate Association , the FBI Infragard Washington D.C Field Chapter and the Buddhist Bhavana Society of West Virginia.

We are also offering a new "adaptative" martial arts and meditation program geared to those experiencing stress related (PTSD, grief, etc.,) issues, disabilities, low income and intellectually challenged (down syndrome, etc.).

In keeping with Okinawan traditions, this is a pay if you are able program. I accept payments in the form of a nice dinner made, help in the garden, or anything else the client can provide in return for services. Do not let your inability to pay in money prevent you from trying out a free lesson.

At each belt level (there are four,) a student is taught kata and practical application. Emphasis is placed not only on performance and improvement, but the historical, philosophical and cultural values of the style as well.
The student will be encouraged to develop their own sense of philosophical and spiritual appreciation as they climb higher and higher up the ranks to first black belt.