By Kate Karp
Karla Bravo, chief instructor at Z-Ultimate Self-Defense Studio’s Long Beach location, stresses to her young students that kicks and moves are only part of what comprises martial arts.
“The art of self-defense includes respect, responsibility and respect for life,” Bravo said. “We want to raise not just martial artists but community members.”
On Saturday, August 20 at 1:00PM, Bravo and the studio will put these ideas into actual practice in an interactive workshop titled “How to Take Care of Your Cat,” in partnership with the Helen Sanders Cat Protection and Rescue Society (CatPAWS). CatPAWS volunteer Christian Santiago, with the hopeful cooperation of two of the organization’s adoptable felines, will demonstrate all aspects of the responsibilities of taking care of a cat, from even before the pet has been adopted. Students, their families and members of the public will learn about feeding, grooming, playing, veterinary care and keeping their pet safe.
Bravo hopes to hold more workshops of this type, possibly focusing on dogs the next time.
“Education is power,” she said. “Understanding how to take care of another sentient creature is a big part of what martial arts teaches—respect for each other, respect for our planet and respect for all animals.”
Z-Ultimate Self-Defense Studio in Long Beach is located at 6534 E. Spring Street. They can be reached at 562-425-9878. Click links in story for information on the organizations.
“Until he extends the circle of his compassion to all living things, man himself will not find peace.”
~ Albert Schweitzer, physician and philospher