Martial Arts

Ephemeral Sight / Corporeal Body

Of all aspects of the human form, I have discovered that it is eyesight that I have most heavily and reoccurringly identified with the most. This was realized when I was sparring at the gym the other night, and my instructor reminded me to not lead with my head. I wasn’t even aware I was leaning my body forward, because I was focussed on seeing the target as close as possible. It was a reminder to identify and use the body as a whole and holistic tool - my arms and legs will always be my longest extensions to reach my target, the head remains behind the arms for protection but also so that I can see the whole picture. By keeping proper distance, I can view the scope of my entire opponent, from toes to head, and therefore set myself up best for attack and defense. Sight is essential, but is instead more properly used as a kind of background viewer, able to take in all visual stimuli while simultaneously acting as a way to keep the head out of danger from attack.