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Shi Sun (시선): Attention or “sight/line.” Line of Sight (physical); Focus (mental) &  Intentness (spirit).

The underlying theme of many of our classes in May was Shi Shun. You should recall your instructors asking you to improve your focus in class.  In the upcoming movie, the Karate Kid, Mr. Han tells young Dre that "your focus needs more focus!"  Where you focus your visual attention (shi sun) communicates many things.  Shi Sun is the terminology we use for eye focus but Shi Sun is more than that.  Shi Sun demonstrates your mental focus, intensity and commitment.  If the eyes are the windows to the soul then Shi Sun reflects your level of confidence, courage and centeredness.  Shi Sun reflects your inner dedication and focus to staying on target.  When you visualize conquering a challenge or overcome a hardship you are actively engaging Shi Sun.

Have you ever had the experience of looking at someone intensely and suddenly they turned and looked right back at you? Or felt someone looking at you and turned and saw that very person?  Shi Sun is a very basic but vital component of our Martial Arts training. Here are some simple ways to strengthen your Shi Sun:

1. Dedicate yourself to not move your eyes when doing form
2. Look into your partners eyes when practicing
3. Look into people’s eyes when communicating with them (shaking hands for example)
4. See yourself breaking a board before attempting to break it

When applied correctly your Shi Sun can be a non verbal form of communication. It can be used to avoid confrontations on a by looking into antagonists eyes and communicating confidence through Shi Sun. You can also connect with other people on a more positive, caring level by looking into their eyes when talking to them.