Tag: discipline

Control Corner 13 from Sifu Oscar: Kindling the Fire Within

Oscar AgramonteSifu Mimi's Blog

This is the Control Corner, where every week we dive into Wah Lum’s philosophy of control—symbolized by the flipped ‘Fire’ character—and apply it to health, martial arts, and living your best life. Ready to take control? Let’s get started!

Essentials: In Greek mythology, Prometheus gave fire to humanity, a symbol of knowledge, power, and transformation. Plutarch built on this idea, saying, “The mind is not a vessel to be filled but a fire to be kindled.” These metaphors remind us that true growth isn’t about passively receiving information but actively nurturing curiosity, creativity, and self-mastery.

Why It Matters: Fire represents potential and power, but without control, it can burn out or cause destruction. In martial arts and life, cultivating your inner fire—your passion, focus, and drive—requires the discipline to direct it purposefully. Control isn’t about suppressing your fire but fueling it wisely so it burns bright and steady.

What’s Next: This week, think about your own fire. What sparks your curiosity or drives your goals? How can you stoke it with intention? Start by learning something new or challenging yourself in your practice—kindle your fire and watch it illuminate your path forward.

 

P.S. Whenever you’re ready, here are ways we can help you get started.

1. Schedule a time to observe a class.
Interested in Kung Fu or Tai Chi?  First step is to watch a class and see if we would be a good fit! Email: kungfu@wahlum.com for an appointment.

2. Become part of my exclusive Coaching Group with CYH Remote Coaching.  Get personalized coaching delivered right to your phone and catered to your specific goals. Email: kungfu@wahlum.com for info.

Control Corner 10 from Sifu Oscar: Building Mobility Now, Not Later

Oscar AgramonteSifu Oscar's Blog

Control starts with focus. Welcome to the Control Corner, where we explore Wah Lum’s philosophy of control, represented by the flipped ‘Fire’ character, and apply it to health, martial arts, and life. Let’s ignite your potential together.

Essentials: The best time to build joint and body health isn’t “someday” or “next year”—it’s now. When you incorporate regular mobility exercises, your body builds the strength it needs for smoother, injury-resistant movement. Think of it as your body’s holiday preparation!

Why It Matters: During the year, extra stress and inactivity can affect your joints, leaving you stiff or prone to injuries. Starting small now, even a few minutes a day, can make a big impact by the time January rolls around. Plus, you’ll feel more limber and ready to tackle anything that comes your way!

What’s Next: Start a simple daily mobility routine. Whether it’s a few gentle stretches or deepening your Kung Fu and Tai Chi practice, the sooner you start, the better you’ll feel.

 

P.S. Whenever you’re ready, here are ways we can help you get started.

1. Schedule a time to observe a class.
Interested in Kung Fu or Tai Chi?  First step is to watch a class and see if we would be a good fit! Email: kungfu@wahlum.com for an appointment.

2. Become part of my exclusive Coaching Group with CYH Remote Coaching.  Get personalized coaching delivered right to your phone and catered to your specific goals. Email: kungfu@wahlum.com for info.

Control Corner 9 from Sifu Oscar: Start Small with Nutrition Now, Reap the Rewards Later

Oscar AgramonteSifu Oscar's Blog

Control is the foundation of growth—in martial arts, health, and life. Welcome to this week’s Control Corner, where we honor Wah Lum’s flipped ‘Fire’ character by sharing tools to help you master what truly matters.

Essentials: There’s no need to wait for the “perfect time” to focus on your nutrition. Small, consistent steps—like mindful eating and balanced meals—can set the stage for a healthier, happier lifestyle.

Why It Matters: Whether it’s holiday gatherings, birthday celebrations, or regular weekends, having a foundation of good nutrition habits helps you enjoy these moments without overindulging. Starting small now can prevent sluggishness, keep you energized, and align with your health goals year-round.

What’s Next: Try a simple, healthy swap or mindful eating tip each day. Take your time to tune into your body and how food makes you feel. If you’re looking for extra guidance, we’re here to help—just reach out and let us know you’re ready to take the next step in your nutrition journey.

 

P.S. Whenever you’re ready, here are ways we can help you get started.

1. Schedule a time to observe a class.
Interested in Kung Fu or Tai Chi?  First step is to watch a class and see if we would be a good fit! Email: kungfu@wahlum.com for an appointment.

2. Become part of my exclusive Coaching Group with CYH Remote Coaching.  Get personalized coaching delivered right to your phone and catered to your specific goals. Email: kungfu@wahlum.com for info.

Control Corner 7 from Sifu Oscar: Use It or Lose It – The Power of Daily Joint Movement

Oscar AgramonteSifu Oscar's Blog

Mastering control isn’t just about martial arts—it’s about mastering your life. Welcome to the Control Corner, where we share weekly insights to help you focus on what matters most. Inspired by Wah Lum’s flipped ‘Fire’ symbol, let’s dive in and build your foundation of control.

Essentials: Did you know your body is constantly remodeling itself? Every day, it adapts to what you do or don’t use. If you’re not moving your joints, you’re signaling your body to let that mobility go. To truly “own” a position, you need to remind your body every day that you want it.

Why It Matters: Consistent movement strengthens and preserves joint health, helping you avoid “use it or lose it” setbacks. Keeping your joints active helps you maintain control over your range of motion, reduces injury risk, and keeps your joints healthy.

What’s Next: Interested in building a daily movement habit? Sifu Oscar is inviting a few students to join a remote coaching flexibility/mobility program starting soon. If you’re interested, email kungfu@wahlum.com with “Control Mobility” for details.

 

P.S. Whenever you’re ready, here are ways we can help you get started.

1. Schedule a time to observe a class.
Interested in Kung Fu or Tai Chi?  First step is to watch a class and see if we would be a good fit! Email: kungfu@wahlum.com for an appointment.

2. Become part of my exclusive Coaching Group with CYH Remote Coaching.  Get personalized coaching delivered right to your phone and catered to your specific goals. Email: kungfu@wahlum.com for info.

Control Corner 4 from Sifu Oscar: Focus on What’s Within Your Control

Oscar AgramonteSifu Oscar's Blog

Welcome back to the Control Corner, where the journey to mastering your life begins. At Wah Lum, the flipped ‘Fire’ character symbolizes control, reminding us that focus and discipline are key to unlocking our potential. 

Let’s explore this week’s lessons!

Essentials: When life feels overwhelming, it’s easy to get caught up in trying to control things outside your reach. This can lead to frustration and distress. But often, we overlook the areas where we do have control – our behaviors, choices, and mindset.

Why it matters: Instead of stressing about the uncontrollable, ask yourself, “What is actually within my control right now?” Focusing on what you can control opens up space for clarity, new perspectives, and effective solutions.

More Info:This week, shift your attention to the behaviors and choices you know positively influence your life. Whether it’s your health, your martial arts practice, or even how you approach each day, taking control where you can will help reduce the noise of what’s outside your power.

 

P.S. Whenever you’re ready, here are ways we can help you get started.

1. Schedule a time to observe a class.
Interested in Kung Fu or Tai Chi?  First step is to watch a class and see if we would be a good fit! Email: kungfu@wahlum.com for an appointment.

2. Become part of my exclusive Coaching Group with CYH Remote Coaching.  Get personalized coaching delivered right to your phone and catered to your specific goals. Email: kungfu@wahlum.com for info.

Control Corner 3 from Sifu Oscar: Find Your Fire

Oscar AgramonteSifu Oscar's Blog

Our weekly Control Corner is all about harnessing control in every aspect of your life. At Wah Lum, we use the flipped Chinese character for ‘Fire’ as a symbol of control—a reminder that true strength begins with mastery over ourselves. 

Let’s dive into this week’s insights!

Essentials: Award-winning chef José Andrés once shared a story about his father cooking Paella, a dish traditionally made over an open fire. As a child, José was in charge of the fire and didn’t like the task—he thought it was menial. His father corrected him: making the fire was the most important job. “If you control the fire,” his father said, “only then can you be a great cook.” 

Why It Matters: This lesson extends beyond cooking. If you can control the fire within—your passions, reactions, and mindset—you can be anything you want. Pay attention to what’s underneath, not just what’s happening on the surface. How are you reacting to life’s challenges?

What’s Next: This week, take some time to find and tend to your own fire. Discover what fuels you, and focus on controlling it to achieve your goals.

 

P.S. Whenever you’re ready, here are ways we can help you get started.

1. Schedule a time to observe a class.
Interested in Kung Fu or Tai Chi?  First step is to watch a class and see if we would be a good fit! Email: kungfu@wahlum.com for an appointment.

2. Become part of my exclusive Coaching Group with CYH Remote Coaching.  Get personalized coaching delivered right to your phone and catered to your specific goals. Email: kungfu@wahlum.com for info.

Control Corner 2 from Sifu Oscar: Discipline Breeds Creativity

Oscar AgramonteSifu Oscar's Blog

Welcome to the Control Corner, your weekly dose of wisdom on mastering control in martial arts, health, and life. At Wah Lum, the flipped Chinese character for ‘Fire’ represents control—an idea central to everything we do. 

Let’s explore how focusing on what matters can help you reach your full potential.

Essentials: French novelist Gustave Flaubert once said, “Be regular and orderly in your life, so that you may be violent and original in your work.” His message highlights the power of discipline in personal life to unlock creativity and innovation in other areas.

Why it matters: Stability in your personal life – whether through routine, relationships, or self-discipline – frees you to be bold and daring in other areas. In your martial arts training, controlling the basics, you eliminate distractions and unnecessary complications, creating space for creativity and growth.

What’s Next: This week, focus on bringing order to your personal life. Simplify where you can, and watch how it frees up energy for your martial arts journey!

 

P.S. Whenever you’re ready, here are ways we can help you get started.

1. Schedule a time to observe a class.
Interested in Kung Fu or Tai Chi?  First step is to watch a class and see if we would be a good fit! Email: kungfu@wahlum.com for an appointment.

2. Become part of my exclusive Coaching Group with CYH Remote Coaching.  Get personalized coaching delivered right to your phone and catered to your specific goals. Email: kungfu@wahlum.com for info.

New blog post series: Control from Sifu Oscar – at the heart of Wah Lum

Oscar AgramonteSifu Oscar's Blog

Welcome to this week’s edition of the Control Corner, where we explore the art of control – whether in martial arts, health, or life. At Wah Lum, the Chinese Character for “Fire” is flipped upside down to symbolize Control, a philosophy also woven into the Control Your Health logo. 

Each week, we’ll share insights to help you focus on what matters and unlock your full potential. Enjoy!

Essentials: In this section, we’ll explore the concept of Control. At Wah Lum, the Chinese character for “Fire” is flipped upside down to symbolize Control. The symbol is also used in the Control Your Health logo, honoring the deep-rooted philosophy passed down from Grandmaster Chan. Check out Sifu Mimi explaining a little bit more about Wah Lum Philosophy HERE

Why it matters: Control begins with self-awareness – understanding what’s truly important to you. While you can’t control everything, you can focus on the things within your reach, like your health and martial arts practice.

What’s Next: Stay tuned for more insights on Control in our weekly blog. For now, start your week by reflecting on what truly matters to you!

 

P.S. Whenever you’re ready, here are ways we can help you get started.

1. Schedule a time to observe a class.
Interested in Kung Fu or Tai Chi?  First step is to watch a class and see if we would be a good fit! Email: kungfu@wahlum.com for an appointment.

2. Become part of my exclusive Coaching Group with CYH Remote Coaching.  Get personalized coaching delivered right to your phone and catered to your specific goals. Email: kungfu@wahlum.com for info.

Integrity and Environment in Training

Oscar AgramonteWah Lum

Let’s talk about two words that transform how we approach fundamental human movements and training: integrity and environment. 

These concepts aren’t just buzzwords; they’re essential to understanding how we navigate our training and, ultimately, our lives.

Integrity

Integrity isn’t just a moral principle—it’s about wholeness. In life, it means being the same person in every situation, doing what’s right even when it’s hard. 

These ideas come from strength coach Dan John, whose insights on movement and resilience have inspired the way I approach training and teaching. 

In training, integrity reminds us that the body is one unified system. Every movement you make—whether a punch, kick, or a Tai Chi flow—requires harmony in your entire being.

When we train, we don’t just strengthen individual muscles; we fortify our entire person. From the mind to the spirit, every part contributes to our athletic performance, our health, and our growth.

Environment

Your environment is everything around you, from the floor you stand on to the challenges you face.

At Wah Lum, the environment could be the training floor, an opponent, or even the crowd cheering (or distracting) you.

In simpler settings, like playing catch with a baseball, the environment might seem controlled—just you, the ball, and the person across from you. 

But in more complex situations, like sparring or navigating a chaotic crowd, the environment shifts unpredictably. 

It’s dynamic, ever-changing, and requires you to adapt while maintaining your integrity.

Why This Matters

At Wah Lum, our goal is simple: build you up. Not just physically, but mentally and emotionally, so you can face any situation with strength and balance. 

As we train, think about how these two ideas—integrity and environment—play a role in every move, every breath, and every decision.

When we flow through a Tai Chi form or execute a powerful kick in Kung Fu, we’re practicing unity within ourselves while adapting to the environment around us. This will help us thrive in martial arts and life’s challenges.

Keep these ideas in mind as you train. 

Be whole. 

Be adaptable. 

And let’s continue building the best versions of ourselves.

Looking forward to seeing you in class!

Sifu Oscar

 

P.S. Whenever you’re ready, here are ways we can help you get started.

1. Schedule a time to observe a class.
Interested in Kung Fu or Tai Chi?  First step is to watch a class and see if we would be a good fit! Email: kungfu@wahlum.com for an appointment.

2. Become part of my exclusive Coaching Group with CYH Remote Coaching.  Get personalized coaching delivered right to your phone and catered to your specific goals. Email: kungfu@wahlum.com for info.

Step Into Your Future Self Today

Oscar AgramonteWah Lum

Imagine Your Future Self

Picture yourself as the focused and disciplined martial artist you’ve always wanted to become—strong, confident, and balanced in both mind and body.

Now, ask yourself: What would that version of you be doing today?

The truth is, your future self isn’t some distant dream. It’s the direct result of the choices and actions you take right now.

Here’s how to get started:

Clarify Your Vision – What does your ideal practice look like?

  • Are you mastering forms and techniques with precision?
  • Building strength, flexibility, and mindfulness?
  • Achieving goals that push your limits?

Train With Intent – Practice like you’re already that future version of yourself.

  • Would your future self skip practice, or would they commit fully?
  • Focus on movements, techniques, and habits that bring meaningful progress.

Make Future-Focused Decisions – Set a training routine, embrace challenges, and approach each session with a long-term mindset.

  • Are you reacting to setbacks, or are you growing from them?

Every day you show up, you’re building momentum. Your future self isn’t a far-off concept—it’s shaped by the choices you make today.

Start training as the person you want to become, and watch how quickly your practice transforms.

Your journey starts now—are you ready to take the first step?

Sifu Oscar

 

P.S. Whenever you’re ready, here are ways we can help you get started.

1. Schedule a time to observe a class.
Interested in Kung Fu or Tai Chi?  First step is to watch a class and see if we would be a good fit! Email: kungfu@wahlum.com for an appointment.

2. Become part of my exclusive Coaching Group with CYH Remote Coaching.  Get personalized coaching delivered right to your phone and catered to your specific goals. Email: kungfu@wahlum.com for info.

Master Your Eating Habits Like Your Martial Arts Moves

Oscar AgramonteWah Lum

I want to share some practical tips to help you stay on track with your health goals while fully enjoying your meals. 

Just as in Kung Fu and Tai Chi, where precision, awareness, and discipline are key, mindful eating can greatly enhance your overall well-being and training.

It’s all about paying attention to your food- savoring each bite, listening to your body’s hunger and fullness cues, and enjoying the overall eating experience without distractions. 

Tips for Practicing Mindful Eating:

  1. Slow Down: In Kung Fu and Tai Chi training, every move is deliberate and controlled. Apply the same principles to your eating. Take your time to eat. Chew each bite thoroughly and savor the flavors and textures.
  2. Eliminate Distractions: Try to eat without distractions such as TV, phones, or computers. Focus solely on your meal and the company around you. Just as you would eliminate distractions to concentrate during training, do the same during meals.
  3. Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to your hunger and fullness signals. Eat when you’re hungry and stop when you’re comfortably full. When training at Wah Lum, listening to your body is crucial to avoid injury and optimize performance. Apply this awareness to your eating habits.
  4. Enjoy Your Food: We tell our students to enjoy the process of mastering a new technique. Apply the same principle to appreciating each meal – its taste, aroma, and presentation. This can enhance your satisfaction and reduce the desire for unhealthy snacks later.

By incorporating these mindful eating strategies into your routine, you can enjoy delicious food while staying on track with your health goals, just as you balance enjoyment and discipline in your martial arts training.

Sifu Oscar

 

P.S. Whenever you’re ready, here are ways we can help you get started.

1. Schedule a time to observe a class.
Interested in Kung Fu or Tai Chi?  First step is to watch a class and see if we would be a good fit! Email: kungfu@wahlum.com for an appointment.

2. Become part of my exclusive Coaching Group with CYH Remote Coaching.  Get personalized coaching delivered right to your phone and catered to your specific goals. Email: kungfu@wahlum.com for info.

The kids are all grown up!

Sifu Mimi ChanCulture, Kung Fu, Sifu Mimi's Blog

When people ask me how long I have been teaching, and I say over 25 years, I often get a confused look.  Perhaps because I look so young! ha.  I wish!

I often think about age and experience and realize those two numbers represent entirely different things.  Just because someone is ‘older’, doesn’t make them more experienced in things they haven’t practiced.  Just because someone is ‘younger’, doesn’t mean they don’t have experience.  Reading those lines back is confusing, but basically… you know, the old saying: don’t judge a book by its cover!

I have the perfect story for this that dates back to… oh maybe 18+ years ago.  I was attending the Yee’s Hung Ga tournament in New York, and had brought my students with me.  My friend was a male Sifu from Yee’s and we went to meet an uncle of one of my students.  When we arrived, the uncle immediately ran over to my friend and shook his hand exclaiming how happy he was to meet his nephew’s Sifu.  Embarrassed, my friend said, “No, no, I’m not his Sifu, she is his Sifu.”  The uncle did a double take, because as you can imagine this was about 18 years ago, so I looked even younger (lament), and I was a she, not a he!

2017-sifu-weekend-151
2017 Test Weekend – Lady Sifus
lady
2008 Test Weekend – Lady Sifus

 

 

I always laugh at these situations, and don’t get too offended, because this is the stereotype I have dealt with my whole life.  I am really proud that in the Wah Lum system there are several female Sifus and a good number of female kung fu practitioners.  My father is always really proud of this fact as well. *Girl power!*

Post instructor certification weekend, I’ve been doing a lot of ‘thinking about the old days’.  Perhaps this is because I had 2 students from my earlier demo teams testing together this year. (Matthew Martin of Wah Lum of Raleigh and Hiep Dang of Wah Lum of Portland)  It was a double take for me to watch them both testing together after all these years.  This was Matt’s 3rd test and Hiep’s 1st test.  I cannot believe how quickly time goes by.  On top of it all, they were fight partners and teammates for a long time.  I never imagined they would both be testing to become a Sifu and that they would even produce students of their own one day.  As I don’t have biological children, I imagine this is what a parent feels like when their kids are all grown up!  I’ve been through so much with these guys, been to their weddings, been through hard times… and now they have decided to follow the path of becoming a Sifu.  They have chosen to propagate and share Wah Lum with others.  I am proud.

I am really proud of the growth of the entire Orlando branch of the Wah Lum tree, the students that have studied with Sifu Tu Truong and I at the Temple.   Torsten Landau of Wah Lum Germany, who has been spending his summer training with us for the past 9 years. Last but certainly not least, Oscar Agramonte, my husband who has taken the word partner to another level with being not only my husband, but my partner in Wah Lum.  (not an easy task)

I look forward to watching them grow as instructors and meeting their students. I look at all the members of the Wah Lum family and am overwhelmed by the growth of this tree with so many branches.  All from the seed that my father planted.  He took the teachings of his Master and brought it to the USA to share with the world.   I like to remind my students that they are part of something so much bigger than just the classroom they are standing in.  Somewhere in the world there are others lining up to ‘bisan‘ and start their kung fu class just as they are.  How cool is that?