Strengthening Brotherhood Bonds at Bali Jujitsu Club Through Martial Arts

August 12, 2025

Rediscovering the Essence of Dojo Kwanji

Returning once again to Dojo Kwanji, the heart of the Bali Jujitsu Club, is always a profound experience. This beautiful island, with its rich culture, lush landscapes, and welcoming spirit, never fails to inspire. But it’s the people—the practitioners, the teachers, the friends—that make each visit truly meaningful. On this trip, we had the great honor of leading a special Atemi Jitsu training session with Professor Karel Valachi-Nathan, Hachi Dan, and I was humbled to assist in the teaching and refinement of techniques.

Honoring Tradition: Training Under the Open Balinese Sky

At Dojo Kwanji, training is traditionally held outdoors, weather permitting—a practice that connects us deeply to the natural world and the spirit of Bali. This night was no exception. Practicing beneath the open sky, surrounded by the gentle Breeze and the distant murmur of the Balinese Night, created a serene yet powerful atmosphere.

The warmth of the tropical air was a constant reminder of Bali’s unique energy. The island teaches patience and presence, and training outside under the stars added a sacred dimension to our practice. There’s a rawness to outdoor training—a way it strips away distractions and grounds you in the moment, making every technique, every movement, more intentional and heartfelt.

Though the evening began quietly—with students arriving slowly due to traffic and work commitments—soon the mats filled with eager practitioners. What started reserved transformed into an electric atmosphere of shared learning and mutual encouragement. The collective energy of everyone training together lifted the spirit of the night and honored the art we practice.

The Art and Discipline of Atemi Jitsu

Professor Nathan guided us through the foundational Atemi Jitsu pressure points, working methodically from the head down to the feet, front and back. The session was thoughtfully paced, allowing each student to absorb the concepts deeply and practice with care.

Atemi Jitsu is more than just striking pressure points; it is the delicate balance of precision, timing, and respect for the opponent’s energy. Each movement taught by Professor Nathan was a lesson in efficiency and control—showing us how to use the body’s natural mechanics to achieve maximum effect with minimal effort.

During partner drills, I had the privilege of assisting students—helping them refine their positioning, adjust their angles, and feel the subtle shifts in pressure that make the difference between a weak and a powerful technique. It was humbling to support their progress and to witness firsthand the determination and focus with which they approached the training.

A Community United by Respect and Growth

One of the most beautiful aspects of the Bali Jujitsu Club is its community. This night brought together both familiar faces and new students, each adding their unique energy and dedication.

The diversity in age, experience, and background only enriched the learning environment. From young practitioners full of enthusiasm and quick reflexes to seasoned veterans whose calm wisdom speaks volumes, the dojo is a place where everyone is valued and every journey is respected.

It is this spirit of inclusiveness and mutual respect that makes training at Dojo Kwanji so special. We are more than just martial artists—we are a family, united by our shared commitment to growth, discipline, and the philosophy behind Jujitsu.

Symbols of Friendship and Brotherhood

The culmination of the night was a deeply meaningful moment of friendship and respect.

I had the honor of presenting Shihan Daniel Christoffel with the BDJJANZ Friendship Certificate, a symbol of the bond between our two clubs. This certificate represents our shared values, mutual respect, and commitment to supporting each other on this martial arts journey.

Alongside the certificate, We presented a Hei Matua Necklace, a sacred taonga (treasure) from our Māori heritage. The Hei Matua symbolizes strength, guidance, and protection—a physical and spiritual representation of the new brotherhood we have forged. It is a humble gift, given with great respect and hope that our connection will continue to grow and inspire both clubs.

Reflections: Lessons Beyond Technique

This training session was more than just a physical practice—it was a reminder of the values that underpin traditional martial arts: patience, discipline, humility, and honor.

Assisting in teaching Atemi Jitsu under Bali’s open sky, surrounded by the warm smiles and community, was a deeply humbling experience. It reminded me that martial arts is as much about cultivating character as it is about mastering technique.

I am profoundly grateful to:

• Professor Karel Valachi-Nathan, whose expertise and calm leadership set the tone for a respectful and enriching session

• Shihan Daniel Christoffel, whose dedication and warmth create a welcoming home for all practitioners

• Every student who arrived ready to learn and grow, contributing to a night filled with shared energy and purpose

Looking Ahead

Training Atemi Jitsu in Bali, immersed in culture and community, has been a gift. The harmony between the island’s spirit and the art’s philosophy of flow, balance, and yielding is unmistakable.

I look forward to returning again, to continue learning, teaching, and strengthening the bonds between our clubs. The path of Jujitsu is lifelong, and I am honored to walk it alongside such inspiring practitioners.

Until next time... BDJJA ALL DAY. Ousss.