JSKR Haedong Kumdo Seminar Feedback – “Follow the Energy”by Nick Barnett

[HAEDONG]

JSKR Haedong Kumdo Seminar Feedback – “Follow the Energy”

Dear Grandmaster Kim,

I would like to express my sincere gratitude for this year’s seminar, “Follow the Energy.” It was an incredible experience that deepened my understanding of energy flow, both in practice and in everyday life.

The Ki-Mu training was especially impactful for me. Through focused practice, I began to truly feel the flow of energy — how it moves within and around us. Yet, the most profound learning came from the Saturday lecture, where Grandmaster Kim explained the structure of the visible and invisible worlds and how everything is connected. His words, “What is above is below,” left a deep impression on me. It made me reflect on how simple, yet powerful, this truth can be.

I’ve personally experienced how living with love and focusing on positive energy helps life flow more smoothly. It doesn’t mean life becomes perfect — but as I’ve learned, without challenges, there is no growth. Understanding that all people are connected as part of nature is a fascinating concept. If more of the world could see this connection, I believe world peace could become a realistic goal.

I cannot claim to fully understand everything yet, as I still have much to learn and piece together. However, I was deeply moved by what I experienced during the seminar. During Ki-Mu practice, Grandmaster Kim helped me directly — with only a simple touch at a few points, I felt a change in the energy flow through my right leg, an area that had been giving me pain. It was a strange but remarkable feeling, almost as if a circuit had been opened, allowing my muscles to relax and blood to flow freely. While I still experience some discomfort, the knowledge and hope I’ve gained inspire me to continue practicing Ki-Mu and meditative breathing, focusing healing energy into my body for lasting improvement.

I also purchased “The Forgotten Half of Martial Arts” and have just begun reading it. It’s an inspiring book that deepens the understanding of how all things — and all people — are connected. When someone close to us experiences loss and we feel genuine compassion and sadness for them, or when we comfort someone who is afraid, these shared emotions are clear examples of our connection as human beings. Even subtle moments — like sensing that something is wrong with someone and stepping in to help without being asked — show how deeply intertwined we all are.

I plan to continue studying energy flow and incorporating my spiritual beliefs into my practice. I look forward to attending future seminars and continuing my journey toward Cho-Dan in JSKR Haedong Kumdo.

Thank you again, Grandmaster Kim, for your guidance, wisdom, and for helping us explore the deeper meaning behind martial arts. This seminar has truly strengthened both my training and my personal growth.

With respect and gratitude,
Nick Barrett
JSKR Haedong Kumdo Student