The Bridge of Presence: Finding Center Through Movement and Tea

The focused energy of karate and the quiet mindfulness of shared tea to explore Ma (the space between) and find centered presence.
About this Event

This workshop brings together the focused energy of martial arts and the intimacy of sharing tea. Through movement, conversation, and matcha, participants explore presence—being fully in the moment—and awareness of themselves, others, and their surroundings.
Through both practices, participants discover that the calm of tea and the discipline of martial arts are simply different paths toward the same centered presence. (*graphic: Yin & Yang)

• Active Connection (Karate)Partner exercises encourage trust, focus, communication, and healthy boundaries.
• Shared Stillness (Tea)We gather to prepare and share matcha together, allowing the energy of movement to settle into quiet appreciation.

Through both practices, participants discover that the calm of tea and the discipline of martial arts are simply different paths toward the same centered presence.

Part 1 | In the Movement: Dynamic Awareness (45 Mins)

Karate is a traditional martial art that emphasizes self-defense and self-discipline. In karate, there is a balance between movement (動) and stillness (静), and Ma (間) serves as the connection between the two.

In this workshop, participants will experience fundamental karate techniques, including breathing exercises and self-defense applications. The workshop is designed to introduce the core principles of karate while fostering focus, awareness, and discipline.

Part 2 | In the Transition: The Reset Button (10-15 Mins)

As the high-energy movement winds down, invite the guests to help shape the next phase. Together, everyone grabs a cushion or mat to form a close, comfortable circle around the tea ceremony space. As everyone settles, the main dojo lights slowly dim, instantly shifting the focus inward and honoring the transition.

Part 3 | In the Tea: Grounded Presence (30–45 Mins)

Under a soft, warm light, introduce a simplified element of temae—the deliberate steps. Participants channel the expansive focus of a martial movement into a micro-movement. After the first bowl of tea is formally served to the first guest, the circle opens up and everyone will whisk matcha for one another.

Sip the tea together, letting the sensory details settle naturally. Conclude with an open dialogue about what it felt like to shift between these two modes of presence, finishing the evening with a final group bow.

A Few Notes Before You Arrive

• Please wear comfortable clothes that allow you to move freely. No martial arts uniform is needed.
• We will be barefoot on the dojo floor during the movement portion of the workshop. Please bring a pair of clean socks for the tea gathering.
• For safety and comfort, we recommend removing rings, watches, and other jewelry before the partner exercises.
• Please bring a water bottle.

We look forward to sharing an evening of movement, tea, and presence with you.

**Tickets for this event are non-refundable and cannot be rescheduled.

**If you have any question, you can send us an email to [email protected] and we'll get back to you.