Dream in August - Independence

NEWS AND REMINDERS

Fall Schedule

Our Kids Martial Arts Fall Schedule begins Tuesday, September 3rd!

Please reserve your weekly class days by visiting the NEW class signup page.

Summer Freezes

For any Summer Freeze requests, please complete the Summer Freeze Request Form on the Student Portal.

Student Portal

Remember, you can find student resources,
like the class signup page and student event calendar within your student portal.
Visit the student portal page on our website below.

The password is listed in student communications.

CLOSURES

Dream will be closed Mon, August 12tht to Sat, Aug 17th, and Sat, August 31st to Mon, September 2nd. There will be no kids or adult classes. 

BLOG

Moral of the Month: Independence

Has your child displayed any of the dojo morals lately? 

Please shout it out to us so that we may join in lifting them up.
Click below to share with us! 

Being able to rely on ourselves and navigate situations with confidence and resilience are the foundations of independence. Fortunately, the desire for independence is innate in most of us and can be nurtured over time.

Not only does independence boost confidence and self-esteem, but it also allows us to lighten the load of others rather than adding to their burdens. The more we practice independence, the more our discernment and decision-making skills improve, empowering us to pursue and achieve our goals.

Independence can be cultivated at any age. In martial arts training at the dojo, even young children learn to practice and master skills, building competence and confidence. Older dedicated students are given more responsibilities on the mats and are also entrusted to assist in class, fostering self-reliance and trustworthiness. These experiences instill pride and reliability that can be applied to other areas of life.

There are countless ways to cultivate independence. For children, assigning chores and encouraging age-appropriate, self-directed activities are excellent starting points. Teens and adults can benefit from trying new experiences and hobbies that require skill development. With consistent effort, independence can be gradually built.

The innate desire for independence is nearly universal. When we tap into and cultivate it, independence becomes doubly rewarding, granting us the resilience and confidence to manage ourselves and become reliable members of our communities. Independence is not about isolation; it's about being strong and self-sufficient enough to contribute meaningfully to the world around us. This is something worth striving for and celebrating.

Dream in July - Respect

NEWS AND REMINDERS

Reminder: Please note that our kids class summer schedule for the months of July and August is now in effect.
Please reserve your weekly class days by visiting the class signup page.

July/August Summer Schedule
beginning Mon, July 1st

| Summer Camp |
Weeklong outdoor nature enrichment for kids ages 4+
at local nature areas

Many of our weeks are sold out, and the rest are nearly full with just a few spots remaining! Sign up ASAP!

July 8 - 12
Ages 6.5-9

July 15 - 19
  Ages 4-6
Ages 6.5-9 (SOLD OUT)

July 22 - 26
Ages 4-6

July 29 - August 2
 Ages 4-6 (SOLD OUT)
Ages 8-12 (SOLD OUT)

Student Portal

Remember, you can find student resources,
like the class signup page and student event calendar within your student portal.
Visit the student portal page on our website below.

The password is listed in student communications.

CLOSURES

There will be NO classes on Wednesday, July 3rd to Friday, July 5th.
Dream will be open for classes on Saturday, July 6th.

***If you normally train on one of the days Dream is closed, you can temporarily switch to another day for that impacted week.***
Simply check the class signup page HERE for available slots and call us at (973) 306-4130 or email us to make the one-time switch for you.
Please do NOT switch your days on the signup sheet; that is for ongoing reserved class times.

BLOG

Moral of the Month: Respect

Has your child displayed any of the dojo morals lately? 

Please shout it out to us so that we may join in lifting them up.
Click below to share with us! 

Respect is often mistaken for good manners or compliance, but it truly centers around care and regard for oneself and others. It is about recognizing the inherent value we all hold as human beings and honoring that understanding in our thoughts and actions. Respect involves holding space for oneself and others in ways that validate their existence, experiences, and value as people. When we show respect, we acknowledge and affirm the humanity in others

Respect brings numerous benefits: it fosters success, happiness, self-esteem, and improved relationships. When we practice respect, we build a foundation for personal and professional growth. Respect cultivates empathy, allowing us to understand and share the feelings of others. This empathy leads to open-mindedness, as we become more willing to consider different perspectives and ideas. Inclusivity naturally follows, creating environments where everyone feels valued and understood. This atmosphere of mutual respect opens the door to positivity and collaboration, enabling us to work together more effectively and achieve common goals.

In martial arts, respect is fundamental. We see it in many ways: by showing up to class on time, bowing before stepping on the mats, listening to others' opinions without interruption, and being reliable and supportive classmates and sparring partners. Through all these actions, we build each other up and create spaces where people feel safe to be their authentic selves and contribute in their own unique ways.

“The more you know and respect yourself,
the more impact you will have on people around you.”
—Maxime Lagacé

Respect accepts rather than rejects differences. It starts with the self. When individuals know they are worthy of being valued, heard, and appreciated, they develop self-esteem and learn to extend that regard to others. Self-respect allows people to care for themselves, empowers them to understand themselves better, make good choices aligned with their values, and build confidence and resilience.

Practicing respect means extending the same kindness and consideration to others that we want for ourselves. The Golden Rule, "do to others what you would have them do to you," guides us in building respect across different aspects of our lives. Whether through choosing our words before speaking, offering a listening ear, or handling conflicts or disagreements, approaching every interaction with respect leads to the most productive and healthy outcomes.

Respect highlights our interconnectedness. It reminds us that we are all part of a larger community and that our actions impact those around us. By holding space for each other as fellow human beings, we create a network of support and understanding. This collective respect fosters a sense of belonging and unity, encouraging us to uplift one another. When we practice respect consistently, we build stronger, more resilient communities capable of overcoming challenges and achieving great things together. Through mutual respect, we can progress not only as individuals but as a society to unlock our full potential.

Dream in June - Awareness

NEWS AND REMINDERS

| Election Day Mini Camp Tuesday, June 4th! |

Kids Ages 6-10 join us if you're off from school
9 am to 2 pm
at Mills Reservation
Only $99 per camper

Sign up while there's still time and spots available!

| Summer Camp |
Weeklong outdoor nature enrichment for kids ages 4+
at local nature areas

We still have a few spots left in some weeks!

July 8 - 12
Ages 6.5-9

July 15 - 19
  Ages 4-6
Ages 6.5-9 (WAITLIST)

July 22 - 26
Ages 4-6

July 29 - August 2
 Ages 4-6
Ages 8-12 (SOLD OUT)

| Student Portal |

Remember, you can find student resources,
like the class signup page and student event calendar within your student portal.
Visit the student portal page on our website below.

The password is listed in student communications.

CLOSURES

There are no planned closures for June.

BLOG

Moral of the Month: Awareness

Has your child displayed any of the dojo morals lately? 

Please shout it out to us so that we may join in lifting them up.

“To be aware is to be alive.”
–Unknown

Martial arts and mindfulness go hand in hand and so having awareness as our moral of the month is fitting. It is worth exploring because it has a profound impact on our state of mind and well-being. Awareness is a steppingstone for self-discovery and growth.

Simply put, awareness is the act of consciously perceiving what's happening within and around us. Our thoughts and emotions, environment and people around us are all things we can deliberately notice. It's not about passively registering sights and sounds; it's about actively engaging with the present moment. Studies have shown that heightened awareness may improve focus, decision-making, and even reduce stress. Blocking a punch, for instance, would be impossible without awareness.

Awareness transcends just the physical in martial arts, though. It's as much about understanding our strengths and limitations, anticipating others’ actions, and reacting with calm and control. Mindfulness practices like meditation and journaling can further refine awareness.

We can cultivate a deeper sense of awareness in our daily lives by slowing down, focusing on our breath and bodily sensations, and contemplating what is happening around and within us. For kids, a simple practice is to take mindful walks. They can be encouraged to notice the colors and textures around them, the sounds of nature, or smells in the air. Parents can model this behavior and initiate conversations about these observations. Adults can use their daily routines as opportunities for awareness practice, like noticing the warmth of a coffee cup, the rise and fall of the chest as they breathe, or the emotions that arise during a conversation. No matter how brief, there are endless opportunities for moments of awareness throughout the day.

As we cultivate awareness, we gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. This empowers us to make conscious choices, navigate challenges with grace, and appreciate the beauty of the present moment. So, let's nurture awareness within ourselves – and watch it grow into a life of purpose and mindful action.

For more information and additional awareness-boosting practices, check out the resources here or here.

Dream in May - Valor

NEWS AND REMINDERS

Save the Date - Kids Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Promotion Ceremonies

MMA promotions will take place SATURDAY, JUNE 1ST at our dojo.
All Kids MMA classes that day are canceled. Promotion ceremonies will take place in lieu of classes.

Students who are eligible for promotion will receive event invites via email with more details, like promotion times and, if applicable, testing dates.
PLEASE CHECK YOUR EMAIL INBOX FOR YOUR PERSONALIZED INVITATION, COMING SOON.

For students who are not yet eligible and do not receive an invite,
rest assured there will be future belt promotion ceremonies!

Spring and Summer Camps

Join us for fresh air fun while schools are closed!

| Election Day Mini Camps | 
Tuesday, May 14th & Tuesday June 4th
For Ages 6-10
9 am - 2 pm
at Mills Reservation
$99 per camper

| Summer Camp |
Weeklong outdoor nature enrichment for kids ages 4+
at local nature areas

Student Portal

Remember, you can find student resources,
like the class signup page and student event calendar within your student portal.
Visit the student portal page on our website below.

The password is listed in student communications.

CLOSURES

There will be no KIDS classes Saturday, May 25th to Monday, May 27th 

BLOG

Moral of the Month: Valor

Has your child displayed any of the dojo morals lately? 

Please shout it out to us so that we may join in lifting them up.

"Valor is stability, not of legs and arms, but of courage and the soul." 

- Michel de Montaigne

Valor, often associated with bravery and courage, is a cornerstone of martial arts philosophy and practice. Valor reflects our actions being in sync with our values. It's not solely about facing risk or danger, but about choosing the right and righteous path, even when it's the harder one to follow. 

Valor is the quiet and personal bravery that stems from within, guiding us to uphold our principles. Those who act with valor are less likely to live with regrets, as they navigate life guided by their principles and convictions. Valor manifests itself in many ways. It is found in the student who stands up against injustice and advocates for fairness, or in the friend who offers support in times of difficulty, lending an ear or helping hand without hesitation. 

In the world of martial arts, valor is what propels us to go beyond our limits, to train and spar with honor, and to stand strong against adversity. Valor can be found in the student who refuses to give up, even when the training gets tough, and in the instructor who leads by example, embodying the principles of respect and discipline.

We can think of the bystander who steps in to stop a bully, or the individual who speaks up against injustice, even if it comes at personal risk. Valor isn't just reserved for grand acts; it shines in the small moments of our daily lives. It is seen in the kindness we show to strangers, in the perseverance we show during tough times, and in the humility to admit our mistakes and grow from them.

By embodying valor in our actions, we not only uphold our own sense of self-respect and dignity but also inspire others to do the same, fostering a community grounded in courage, compassion, and character.

Dream in April - Consistency

NEWS AND REMINDERS

Pizza and Movie Night!

Adults, drop off the kids for a movie on the mats!

Friday, April 19th at Dream
5:30-8:30 pm
Kids Ages 7+
students and non-students welcome!
$40/child; pajamas and sleeping bags optional

Movie Nights sell out quickly! Sign up ASAP!

Spring Mini Camp

Election Day, Tuesday June 4th
For Ages 6-10
9 am - 2 pm
at Mills Reservation
$99 per camper

Summer Camp

Weeklong outdoor nature enrichment for kids ages 4+
at local nature areas
See our camps page for more details!

Student Portal

Remember, you can find student resources,
like the class signup page and student event calendar within your student portal.
Visit the student portal page on our website below.

The password is listed in student communications.

CLOSURES

There are no planned closures in April! 

BLOG

Moral of the Month: Consistency

Has your child displayed any of the dojo morals lately? 

Please shout it out to us so that we may join in lifting them up.

"Success doesn't come from what you do occasionally, it comes from what you do consistently."
- Marie Forleo

One of the cornerstones of success is consistency. Consistency is the steadfast adherence to actions or values over time. It's about showing up, putting in the effort, and striving for improvement on a regular basis. It is a committed pursuit of excellence. Understanding and embodying the moral of consistency can be transformative, not just on the mats but in every aspect of life.

Consistency breeds discipline, resilience, and progress. It establishes a rhythm and routine that becomes the foundation for growth. Without consistency, progress becomes sporadic and goals become elusive. By embracing consistency, martial arts students set themselves on a path of steady advancement. Consistent individuals are trustworthy, reliable and enjoy higher self-esteem as well as a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment from reaching goals.

The benefits of consistency in martial arts far-reaching. Consistent practice leads to improved physical fitness, enhanced mental focus, and increased self-confidence. Martial arts training demands consistency at every level. Whether it's mastering a new technique, preparing for a competition, or simply maintaining fitness levels, consistent practice is key. Consistency does not just involve showing up to class regularly; quality efforts are required to gain improvement. Each session builds upon the last to refine skills and reinforce muscle memory.

Consistency also fosters a mindset of continuous improvement. By approaching each training session with dedication and determination, martial artists embrace the journey of growth, knowing that progress is the result of consistent effort over time.

Incorporating consistency requires planning, commitment, and practice. Consistency thrives on routine, so making your priorities a part of your weekly schedule will help in sticking to them and achieving success. Define specific, achievable goals. For martial arts practice, that could be mastering a new technique, earning a higher belt rank, or competing in a tournament. Break down larger goals into smaller milestones to track progress and stay motivated. Hold yourself accountable to your goals by tracking your training sessions, seeking feedback from instructors, and support from training partners or family members.

Consistency is not just a virtue; it's a fundamental principle of success in martial arts and beyond. By embracing consistency, we lay the groundwork for resilience, achievement, and personal growth. Consistency serves as a guiding light toward mastery and fulfillment. We can step on the mats with purpose, dedication, and a commitment to consistency, knowing that each step brings us closer to realizing our full potential as martial artists and individuals.

Dream in March - Patience

NEWS AND REMINDERS

Promotion Ceremonies are Next Week!

Friendly Reminder that MMA promotions will take place SATURDAY, MARCH 9TH at our dojo.
All Kids MMA classes that day are CANCELED. Promotion ceremonies will take place in lieu of classes.

Students who are eligible for promotion will receive event invites via email with more details, like promotion times and, if applicable, testing dates.
PLEASE CHECK YOUR EMAIL INBOX FOR YOUR PERSONALIZED INVITATION, COMING SOON.

***alternate copy: Please check your inbox to review your personalized email invite, sent DATE***

For students who are not yet eligible and do NOT receive an invite,
rest assured there will be future belt promotion ceremonies!

Buddy Week!

Buddy Week is Back!

Monday, March 18th-Saturday, March 23rd

Students, feel free to invite one or several buddies to train at Dream!

Plus, referring students of registered buddies receive a gift!
Make sure your friends list your name when they register to attend.

Spring and Summer Camps!

We're thrilled to share our warm weather camp enrichment offerings!
Camp group sizes are limited so register ASAP!

Spring Break April 8-12
for Ages 6-10
Monday - Friday | 9 am - 2 pm
at  a local nature area

Election Day, Tuesday June 4th
For Ages 6-10
9 am - 2 pm
at Mills Reservation

Summer (July-August)

July 8 - 12  |  Ages 6.5-9

July 15 - 19  |  Ages 4-6, Ages 6.5-9

July 22 - 26  |  Ages 4-6

July 29 - August 2  |  Ages 4-6, Ages 8-12 

Click HERE or below for more camp details and to reserve your spot! 

Student Portal

Remember, you can find student resources,
like the class signup page and student event calendar within your student portal.
Visit the student portal page on our website below.

The password is listed in student communications

CLOSURES

Dream will be closed Friday, March 29th to Saturday March 30th. 
There will be no kids or adults classes or programming.  

***If you normally train on one of the days Dream is closed, you can temporarily switch to another day for that impacted week.***
Simply check the class signup page for available slots and call us at (973) 306-4130 or email us to make the one-time switch for you.

BLOG

Moral of the Month: Patience

Has your child displayed any of the dojo morals lately? 

Please shout it out to us so that we may join in lifting them up.

“Patience attracts happiness; it brings near that which is far.” – Swahili Proverb

In the fast-paced world we live in, there may be fewer opportunities for practicing the virtue of patience. However, in the dojo and in our daily lives, patience holds immense importance. It's not just about waiting for something to happen; patience encompasses a deeper meaning that extends beyond mere tolerance.

At its core, patience is about having perspective and humility. It's about understanding our place in the world and being aware of others around us. Individuals who cultivate patience are not only able to regulate their emotions effectively but also exhibit greater self-control in challenging situations. By resisting instant gratification, they can steer clear of impulsive decisions that may lead to unfavorable outcomes. Embracing patience also often correlates with experiencing more positive feelings overall, fostering a sense of calmness and contentment in everyday life.

In the dojo, patience allows us to approach our training with a sense of cooperation and understanding. We learn to listen to our instructors, respect our fellow students, and appreciate the journey of growth and self-improvement. In essence, patience is the key to achieving our long-term goals. Just as rank promotions in martial arts are not received simply by showing up, success requires dedication, hard work, and patience.

When we lead with patience, we lead with compassion. We give ourselves and others the grace to make mistakes and learn from them. We take moments to meditate or practice deep breathing exercises, cultivating calmness and presence in our busy lives. We can pursue hobbies or activities that require patience and persistence, such as gardening, painting, or learning a musical instrument. Whatever we choose to do, we can purposefully develop patience while enjoying the process of mastery and skill-building.

By practicing and modeling patience in both big and small ways, we not only become better martial artists but also better individuals, capable of navigating life's challenges with grace and resilience.

Dream in February - Humility

NEWS AND REMINDERS

Save the Date - Kids Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Promotion Ceremonies

MMA promotions will take place SATURDAY, MARCH 9TH at our dojo.
All Kids MMA classes that day are canceled. Promotion ceremonies will take place in lieu of classes.

Students who are eligible for promotion will receive event invites via email with more details, like promotion times and, if applicable, testing dates.
PLEASE CHECK YOUR EMAIL INBOX FOR YOUR INVITATION, COMING SOON.

For students who are not yet eligible and do not receive an invite,
rest assured there will be future belt promotion ceremonies!

Pizza & Movie Night!

Grownups, enjoy an evening off while the kids do pizza and a movie at Dream!

Students and non-students alike are WELCOME!

For kids ages 7+

Friday, February 9th, 5:30 - 8:30 pm

$40/per child

Registration is OPEN for Summer Camp!

We have several camp weeks in for ages 4 and up!
Sign up ASAP for some fresh air fun with us!

July 8 - 12  /  Ages 6.5-9

July 15 - 19  /  Ages 4-6, Ages 6.5-9

July 22 - 26  /  Ages 4-6

July 29 - August 2  /  Ages 4-6, 8-12 

See the camp signup page to learn more and reserve a spot.
Space is limited and camp sells out quickly!

Student Portal

Remember, you can find student resources,
like the class signup page and student event calendar within your student portal.
Visit the student portal page on our website below.

The password is provided in student communications.

CLOSURES

There will be no kids classes on Monday, February 19th 

***If you normally train on one of the days Dream is closed, you can temporarily switch to another day for that impacted week.***
Simply check the class signup page for available slots and call or email us to make the one-time switch.
Please do NOT switch your days on the signup sheet; that is for ongoing reserved class times.

BLOG

Moral of the Month: Humility

Has your child displayed any of the dojo morals lately? 

Please shout it out to us so that we may join in lifting them up.

“Humility is the solid foundation of all virtues.” —Confucius

The connection between humility and greatness may not seem apparent, but a modest estimation of oneself is precisely what can catapult individuals to growth and success. Humility is a strength that develops when we acknowledge our limitations and accept the wisdom around us to become compassionate, collaborative, self-actualized members of society.

Humility can help you achieve your goal faster! A humble person is willing to ask for help or advice, and can therefore avoid pitfalls and immediately make use of best practices. They don’t have to make the same mistakes or waste others’ time as the person who has too much pride or fear to ask questions or request support. 

Humility is the absence of pride or arrogance. People who are humble are often described as respectful, modest and unassuming. Humility requires awareness of our limitations and of our own and others’ strengths. It is what enables us to have not only empathy for ourselves and others, but also gratitude for others’ gifts and knowledge. In this way it opens doors to learning, communication, and connection. With humility, we can willingly say when we are wrong and when we need help.

Humility is a cornerstone of the martial arts world. A student who is open to advice or constructive feedback from their instructor and training partners and humbly accepts the lessons others imparts will excel. Through acts like bowing, training, and sharing space on the mats, there is a recognition of others’ knowledge and skills and a shared journey in the art.

This practice extends beyond the walls of the dojo. We can maintain the willingness to listen and the recognition of others’ perspectives in our day-to day-lives, as well. With the understanding that each person we encounter has their own unique experience and wisdom, we can continue to stay open to new perspectives and lessons.

To further nurture humility, we must cultivate self-reflection and be willing to embrace vulnerability, to admit when we don't have all the answers, and to celebrate the collective wisdom of diverse voices. Humility grows when we approach every interaction as an opportunity to learn and to uplift those around us.

Humility brilliantly weaves together strength, fairness, compassion, and connection. It is a quiet recognition that we are all interconnected. As we navigate life, we can let humility be a guiding light, reminding us that in our shared journey, the truest strength lies in our ability to grow together.

Dream in January - Respect

NEWS AND REMINDERS

Mini Camp Registration is OPEN!
Schools are closed Monday, February 19th
Join our camp!
Ages 6-10
9 am to 2 pm
at Mills Reservation
$99 per camper

Final Days to Donate Coats!
We have been accepting new or gently used unstained coats for all ages in our lobby
(no accessories or clothing at this time, please)
FINAL DAY TO DONATE IS WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 3RD
Thank you to all who have donated and spread the word about our coat drive!

Student Portal
Remember, you can find student resources,
like the class signup page and student event calendar within your student portal.
Visit the student portal page on our website.
The password is listed in student communications.

CLOSURES

There will be no kids or adult classes on Monday, January 15th, 2024
in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day

BLOG

Moral of the Month: Respect

Has your child displayed any of the dojo morals lately? 
Please shout it out to us so that we may join in lifting them up.

There is no respect for others without humility in one’s self. – Henri Amiel 

You may hear the word respect come up often in the martial arts world, and for good reason. Respect—the acknowledgment of the inherent value one and everyone around us possess—is fundamental to the practice or martial arts. It is closely associated with humility, gratitude and acceptance, and makes us better, more compassionate people, to ourselves and others.  

As individuals progress through their martial arts journey, they discover that respect is not just a set of rules but a profound mindset that shapes their actions both inside and outside the dojo. Respectfulness builds character and goes beyond politeness. It cultivates a strong sense of discipline, integrity, and responsibility. Respect also fosters discipline. Through the practice of respecting instructors, peers, and the art itself, students internalize the importance of self-discipline.

Additionally, a culture of respect creates positive and inclusive spaces. When students treat each other with respect, it establishes a sense of camaraderie and teamwork by which everyone feels valued and encouraged. And by acknowledging and appreciating differences, practitioners may develop a broader perspective and deeper understanding of the human experience. This not only enriches their martial arts journey, but contributes to the growth of a more inclusive society.

 Respect in the dojo is embodied by many different practices and protocols. The traditional bow in martial arts is not just a formality; it symbolizes humility and respect. The act of bowing signifies acknowledgment of the knowledge and skills being shared, as well as a commitment to learn and grow. 

In sparring, respect is evident in the controlled intensity of the exchanges. Peers demonstrate consideration for their training partners, which builds trust, ensures a safe and constructive learning environment, and enhances the quality of training sessions.

 Through the acknowledgment of rank and experience, students also learn to respect the journey of their peers, seniors, and instructors, recognizing the dedication and effort each individual puts into their practice. 

Practicing respectfulness in our daily lives can be done in many ways. We can, for one, lead by example. By treating everyone with consideration, actively listening, providing constructive feedback, and demonstrating humility, we create a standard of respect that others can follow. Rituals, not unlike the bow-in, serve as tangible reminders of to uphold the morals we value. Even the act of gratitude fosters respect; the implicit acknowledgment that we are beneficiaries of others’ knowledge, efforts or support fosters trust, positivity, and humility, key components of respect.

 The cultivation of respect in the martial arts world is not just a practice; it's a transformative journey. By embracing respect as a core value, individuals not only become skilled martial artists but also compassionate and resilient members of society. We all benefit from the enduring power and impact of respect—a force that propels us toward personal and collective excellence. 

Dream in December - Discipline

NEWS AND REMINDERS

Winter Coat Drive

We are collecting coats from now through Wed, January 3rd
to help individuals in New Jersey in need of warm gear.
Please bring any coats you have outgrown or no longer wear or need to the dojo.
We'll gladly accept new or gently used unstained coats for any age
 (no accessories or clothing at this time, please).
We have a box for donations in the lobby.
Thank you for your support and for spreading the word!

Student Portal

Remember, you can find student resources,
like the class signup page and student event calendar within your student portal.
Visit the student portal page on our website.

The password is listed in student communications.

CLOSURES

There will be NO classes from Monday December 25th to Monday January 1st, 2024.
Classes will resume Tuesday, January 2nd, 2024.

There WILL be classes on Saturday December 23rd before the break.

BLOG

Moral of the Month: Discipline

Has your child displayed any of the dojo morals lately? 
Please shout it out to us so that we may join in lifting them up.

Motivation gets you going, but discipline gets you growing. —John C. Maxwell

At the heart of our accomplishments is discipline, the ability to follow-through on our goals through consistent action. Discipline involves the conscious choice to pursue something even in the face of distractions, challenges or ebbs in motivation. It allows us to defer short-term satisfaction for long-term gains. Discipline is a virtue, a habit, and a mindset that may take a good deal of effort to develop and maintain, but benefits us immensely.

Aside from helping us to achieve our goals, discipline grants us higher confidence, resilience, and independence. Disciplined individuals are better equipped to delay self-gratification, control their impulses, and maintain positive relationships. They also perform and retain knowledge better than undisciplined individuals.

In the realm of martial arts, discipline is a fundamental principle that shapes the very core of the practice. Martial arts require dedication and a commitment to the training for both body and mind. Discipline in martial arts extends to mental fortitude, respect, and self-awareness. It's the ability to push through fatigue, overcome self-doubt, and persevere in the face of challenges. Martial artists understand that success is not an overnight achievement but a result of diligence in daily efforts.

Cultivating discipline involves instilling a sense of responsibility and accountability. Setting clear, achievable goals is essential. Whether it's achieving a higher belt rank, mastering a challenging technique, or participating in a competition, having specific objectives creates a roadmap for disciplined training. Establishing consistent habits and regularly reassessing goals help to create a rhythm, maintain focus and provide ongoing motivation.

Discipline provides a path to uncovering one's true potential and pushing beyond perceived limitations. As Bruce Lee once said, "I fear not the man who has practiced 10,000 kicks once, but I fear the man who has practiced one kick 10,000 times." This insight emphasizes the essence of discipline – the relentless repetition and refinement that lead to mastery.

Discipline is not a one-time achievement but an ongoing process. In embracing discipline, we not only become better martial artists but better individuals, prepared to face life's challenges with grace, determination, and unwavering resolve.

Dream in November - Gratitude

NEWS AND REMINDERS

Save the Date - Kids Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Promotion Ceremonies!
MMA promotions will take place SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18TH at our dojo.
All Kids MMA classes that day are cancelled.
Promotion ceremonies will take place in lieu of classes.

Students who are eligible for promotion will receive event invites via email with more details, like promotion times and, if applicable, testing dates.
PLEASE CHECK YOUR EMAIL INBOX FOR YOUR INVITATION,
COMING SOON.

For students who are not yet eligible and do not receive an invite,
rest assured there will be future belt promotion ceremonies!

Mini Camps Are ON During Next Week's School Closures!
We'll be hosting fresh air fun and training for Ages 6-10
at Mills Reservation the following days:

Tue, Nov. 7th
&
Thu-Fri, Nov. 9th-10th

9 am - 2 pm each day

$99/per student per day
Drop-ins available!
Register ASAP to lock in your spot!

Winter Coat Drive
We have started collecting coats from now through the new year
to help the many adults, children and infants in need of warm gear this winter.
 If you have coats you have outgrown or no longer wear or need,
please drop them off at the dojo for our cause.
We'll gladly accept new or gently used unstained coats for any age
 (no accessories or clothing at this time, please).
We'll have a box for depositing your donations in the lobby.
Thank you for your efforts and for spreading the word!

Student Portal
Remember, you can find student resources,
like the weekly classes signup page and student event calendar within your student portal.
Visit the student portal page on our website.
The password is listed in student communications.

CLOSURES

There will be NO classes from Wednesday, November 22nd to Friday, November 24th
Saturday, November 25th, classes are ON as usual 

BLOG

Moral of the Month: Gratitude

Has your child displayed any of the dojo morals lately? 
Please shout it out to us so that we may join in lifting them up.

"Gratitude is the healthiest of all human emotions. The more you express gratitude
 for what you have, the more you will have to express gratitude for."
- Zig Ziglar

Gratitude is the appreciation of the good things in our lives, big or small. Beyond simply giving thanks, gratitude is a virtue that can be cultivated and practiced, and it has many benefits for our physical and mental health.

Research has shown that gratitude has a number of positive effects on our well-being, including reduced stress and anxiety, increased happiness, strong relationships, increased resilience, and even improved sleep. Gratitude also helps us to remain humble, respectful, and compassionate.

Martial arts offer numerous opportunities for practicing gratitude. Whether it's the unwavering support of fellow students and instructors, the hard-won accomplishments, the journey of self-improvement, or the invaluable life lessons learned on the mat, there are countless aspects of martial arts that inspire thankfulness. The community itself fosters a sense of unity and respect, teaching us to appreciate each challenge as an opportunity for growth.

Gratitude can also have a positive impact on our everyday lives. It helps us to value our relationships and our well-being, and the opportunities and experiences we get to have. Gratitude allows us to be more mindful and present, and brings us optimism and hope.

Here are a few ways to foster gratitude:

• Keep a gratitude journal and write down a few things you are grateful for each day.

• Take a few minutes each night before bed to reflect on the good things in your life.

• Express your gratitude to others, whether it is verbally, in writing, or through your actions.

• Help others and give back to your community.

• Spend time in nature and appreciate the beauty and wonder of the world around you.

• Practice mindfulness and meditation to cultivate a more grateful mindset.

Gratitude is a powerful virtue that can have a positive impact on all aspects of our lives. It encourages us to focus on the journey, not just the destination, and infuses our lives with a positive attitude. By cultivating gratitude, we can improve our physical and mental health, strengthen our relationships, and create a more fulfilling and meaningful life for ourselves. Let us all embrace an attitude of gratitude!