Martial arts and Catholicism?

[LDNCatholic]

It was suggested that this forum might be more appropriate than the watercooler, here goes:

Hi everyone, I had a quick question. For about 4 1/2 years I have been practicing martial arts. The arts I practice involve no esoteric energy or eastern religious philosophy (The founder is a methodist). However recently I have been looking to cross train in more traditional styles, which include Chi/Ki. What is the official statement on these principles according to the Church? Is there one, is this a moral issue? Also if the statement is negative on the subject of internal energy, is there any way I can practice these arts without going against the teachings of the faith? Thanks in advance.

Peter

 

[DeFide]

LDNCatholic:

It was suggested that this forum might be more appropriate than the watercooler, here goes:

Hi everyone, I had a quick question. For about 4 1/2 years I have been practicing martial arts. The arts I practice involve no esoteric energy or eastern religious philosophy (The founder is a methodist). However recently I have been looking to cross train in more traditional styles, which include Chi/Ki. What is the official statement on these principles according to the Church? Is there one, is this a moral issue? Also if the statement is negative on the subject of internal energy, is there any way I can practice these arts without going against the teachings of the faith? Thanks in advance.

Peter

A closely related issue:

Q: Is it okay for Catholics to use yoga as part of an exercise program? What about in physical education for children?

A: Two factors are relevant here: First, it depends on whether the yoga is being presented in a manner that is free of religious elements-i.e., purely as a system of physical exercise. If it is coupled with elements of Hindu spirituality (e.g., talk about moving kundalini, or energy, around your body), it is not appropriate for Catholics to use it as part of their exercise routine.

Children are not mature in their thinking, and while an adult who is firm in his faith might be able to go to an “iffy” yoga exercise class without danger of being attracted to Hindu spirituality, a child well might not. If a child is being put in danger of being attracted to Hindu spirituality-either now or in the future-by the program, then it is not appropriate.

source:
catholic.com/thisrock/2001/0107qq.asp

 

[LDNCatholic]

thanks for the information, I think i can handle the classes then. But does that mean I simply refuse to do these exercises or I just do them without any supernatural focus in mind?

 

[DeFide]

LDNCatholic:

thanks for the information, I think i can handle the classes then. But does that mean I simply refuse to do these exercises or I just do them without any supernatural focus in mind?

Focus on the physical aspects of the exercises. If you need to free your mind from distractions, you could focus on some aspect of the passion and death of Christ.:yup:

 

[LDNCatholic]

Thank you, thats what I was thinking of doing but I wasn’t sure whether or not that would be condoned, I had a feeling it wasn’t a common issue, especially consodering today’s situational morality. Thank you for the idea of focusing on the passion, I never thought of that, its a really good idea come to think of it Thanks for all the help.