2023

  • MASTERING THE SIX RANGES OF COMBAT: UNVEILING THE POWER OF RAT SYNTHESIS

    “Mastering others is strength. Mastering yourself is true power.” – Lao Tzu

    Introduction: RAT Synthesis is an innovative program uniting Rapid Assault Tactics (R.A.T.), Kickboxing, and Chi Ling Pai® Gung Fu. This comprehensive approach not only equips individuals with effective streetwise skills but also enhances their fitness and self-confidence. Today, let’s delve into the essence of RAT Synthesis by exploring the six ranges of combat and how they form the core of our self-defense philosophy.

    1. Kicking Range: Unleashing the Power of Legs In the realm of Kicking arts such as Tae Kwon Do and Northern Shaolin Kung Fu, the Kicking Range takes precedence. Highlighting potent leg techniques, this range empowers us to keep a safe distance while delivering rapid and impactful strikes. Within this range, we adeptly counter our opponent’s attacks with well-timed responses, employing either kicks as interceptions or elbows and knees as strategic destructions. Notably, RAT Synthesis places emphasis on training low kicks, recognizing their heightened practicality for street scenarios.
    2. Hand Striking Range: Precision in Every Punch Transitioning seamlessly, the Hand Striking Range, favored by Western Boxing and Southern Chinese Gung Fu styles, takes center stage. Here, precision and speed are key as we employ various hand techniques, refining the art of striking with finesse.
    3. Trapping Range: Immobilization Mastery RAT Synthesis introduces the Trapping Range, where stand-up grappling unfolds, clearing obstacles, immobilizing opponents’ arms, and executing strategic arm destructions. Foot immobilization becomes a tactical tool, providing a well-rounded approach to self-defense. Here the big guns also come out as we employ headbutt, knee, and elbow strikes.
    4. Grappling Range: Navigating the Ground As the confrontation transitions to the ground, the significance of the Grappling Range comes to the forefront. RAT Synthesis, incorporating PaGua principles, strategically works to thwart takedowns and seamlessly utilizes RAT groundfighting techniques to promptly regain a standing position. Acknowledging the inherent risks associated with ground fighting in practical situations, our emphasis lies on maintaining mobility and ensuring swift recovery.
    5. Weapons Range: Adapting to External Threats In the Weapons Range, the dynamics shift to defending against knives, chains, bats, bottles, tire irons, and various objects. RAT Synthesis strategically deploys tools like the kubotan, ensuring practitioners are well-equipped to handle diverse threatening situations.
    6. Mind Range: Harnessing the Power of Thought Expanding beyond the realms of physical combat, RAT Synthesis embraces the Mind Range, resonating with the Kybalion’s insight, “The All is Mind; the Universe is Mental.” Within this sphere, practitioners engage in martial arts visualization practice, positive autosuggestion, meditation, and alignment with the law of attraction. It’s a domain where mental strength and focus wield transformative power in the realm of self-defense and life.

    Conclusion: RAT Synthesis goes beyond conventional martial arts by integrating the diverse facets of combat into a cohesive and practical self-defense philosophy. By mastering the six ranges of combat, individuals not only gain physical prowess but also develop focus, mental resilience and success.

  • RAT SYNTHESIS MARTIAL STRATEGY GUIDE: MASTERING SELF-DEFENSE WITH SPEED, POWER, AND DECEPTION

    “Be like water making its way through cracks. Do not be assertive, but adjust to the object, and you shall find a way round or through it.” – Bruce Lee

    Introduction:
    In the realm of self-defense, the Rat Synthesis Strategy Guide stands out as a comprehensive playbook that combines science, precision and power to protect oneself effectively. Focusing on vital points, this strategy is a versatile approach designed for both finesse and power. Let’s delve into the key aspects of the RAT Synthesis Strategy and explore the two main approaches: Finesse (Little Pagua) and Power (Big Pagua).

    Finesse Strategy (Little Pagua):
    The finesse strategy is tailored for smaller opponents who prefer not to engage in direct punches and kicks. Instead, they strategically move around at a distance, weakening their adversaries. Once the opponent is in pain, the finesse practitioner moves in with precision, executing well-timed strikes before retreating again. This strategy revolves around creating openings and capitalizing on the opponent’s vulnerabilities.

    Power Strategy (Big Pagua):
    On the other end of the spectrum, the power strategy is usually employed by larger opponents. This approach involves overwhelming the adversary with forceful strikes and kicks. The goal is to move in with power, striking decisively to gain control of the situation.

    The Rapid Assault Tactics (R.A.T.) Approach:
    The RAT approach is firmly rooted in the finesse strategy, emphasizing moving back and circling side to side to elusively intercept the opponent or destroy their limbs while creating pain. Once pain is established, the RAT practitioner moves in with a blast, followed by headbutts, knees, and elbow strikes. The mantra is PAIN-PRESSURE-TERMINATE, focusing on defanging the snake before executing decisive attacks. In close encounters, one might instead initiate with headbutts, knees, and elbows.

    Five Ways of Attack:
    To overcome strong defenses, RAT Synthesis employs Bruce Lee’s five ways of attack: single direct attack, attack by combination, attack by drawing, trapping, and broken rhythm. These methods provide a nuanced and dynamic approach to self-defense, using speed, power, and deceptiveness to gain the upper hand.

    Pattern Recognition:

    The key to successful self-defense lies in intuiting your opponent’s movements. RAT Synthesis offers a framework for categorizing fighters based on behaviors, facilitating tailored responses and effective countermeasures grounded in the five ways of attack.

    Adaptability and Overcoming Challenges:
    Recognizing that real-world scenarios rarely unfold as planned, RAT Synthesis emphasizes adaptability and improvisation. The guide equips practitioners with the tools to overcome unforeseen challenges and adjust their strategies on the fly.

    Conclusion:
    The RAT Synthesis Strategy Guide offers a comprehensive roadmap for navigating the complexities of self-defense. By mastering the principles of movement, understanding patterns, and wielding the five ways of attack, individuals can acquire the confidence, skills, and intuition to protect themselves effectively, adapting to any situation with speed, deception, and power.

  • UNLOCKING MASTERY: THE JOURNEY THROUGH RAT SYNTHESIS TRAINING

    Introduction:

    Embarking on the path of martial arts is a transformative journey, and RAT Synthesis Training offers a comprehensive progression through four tiers, each unlocking new levels of skill and self discovery. Let’s explore the tiers and what each stage entails.

    First Tier: Rapid Assault Tactics (RAT) Foundation

    The journey begins with building a solid foundation in Rapid Assault Tactics (RAT). In this tier, students swiftly acquire skills for street self defense, ensuring effective responses and achieving fighting condition.

    Rank 1: Initiate (30 hours / 3 – 6 months): Completion of Basic R.A.T. certification, including ground fighting and Kubotan techniques. Proficiency in foundational self defense techniques and simulated attack scenarios.

    Rank 2: Practitioner (61 hours / 6 – 12 months): Expertise in Advanced R.A.T., incorporating enhanced attributes and advanced ground fighting. Proficiency in neutralizing weapons threats and advanced Kubotan techniques demonstrated through practical sparring.

    Second Tier: Kickboxing and Advanced Fight Strategy

    This tier introduces advanced fighting concepts, technology, and heightened fitness levels, including the five ways of attack.

    Rank 3: Adept (122 hours / 1 – 2 years): Proficiency in Kickboxing and fight strategy, with practical sparring skills. Completion of trapping attacks.

    Third Tier: Gung Fu and PaGua

    Building upon the foundation, this tier introduces advanced fighting concepts and technology, covering Internal Power and the Gung Fu animals. Mastery involves focusing on controlling the opponent’s centers.

    Rank 4: Guardian (183 hours / 2 – 3 years): Completion of Chi Ling Pai® Gung Fu and PaGua training methods and fighting, including practical sparring. Notably, the emphasis is on practical application over traditional forms (kata).

    Fourth Tier: Self Mastery and Freedom of Expression

    This tier encourages a focus on the lifelong pursuit of excellence, personal development, and exploration of the philosophical and spiritual dimensions of martial arts. Students are empowered to discover their unique expression within the martial arts framework.

    Rank 5: Master (244 hours / 3+ years): Hone Attributes and Skills acquired in all disciplines. RAT Synthesis Instructor certification is available upon request at this rank.

    *) NOTE: these are estimated times; student progression may vary.

    *) Certification fees apply for each rank and instructor certification.

    Conclusion:

    RAT Synthesis Training is a holistic journey that transcends physical prowess. It embraces personal development, self discovery, and the exploration of martial arts beyond the mat. Whether you progress swiftly or take your time, the journey towards mastery is yours to unfold, guided by the proficiency and the discernment of the Sifu.

    Unlock the potential within, and let RAT Synthesis Training be your guide on the path to martial arts mastery.

  • MULTIVERSE: MANY WORLDS WITHIN ONE WORLD. MAKE SURE YOURS IS THE RIGHT ONE.

    Choose your envisioned self; align emotions, thoughts, actions.

    Cultivate inner peace and positivity to create ripples, shaping your world. Each person holds a unique world within reality.

    “The successful warrior is the average man with laser-like focus.” — Bruce Lee

    Most experiences blend positive and negative, canceling each other.

    Focus brings circumstances; use willpower, block out the unwanted, nurture the positive.

    Direct your thoughts and feelings to attract what you desire.

    Build a surplus of positive seeds for lasting change.

    Over time, embrace the new you in a virtuous circle.

    “Those who have will have more; those with nothing will lose even the little they have.” Matthew 13:12

    As within, so throughout.

    Opt for your positive world within the one reality.

    It’s about monitoring the mind and guiding it to behave as it should.

    Rewire the brain.

    Then the machine works in your favor, automatically and on its own. The power of good habits.

  • PRINCIPLE OF LEAST ACTION

    A skilled martial artist employs minimal energy and takes the shortest possible time while executing techniques.

    In a great factory one of the huge power machines suddenly balked. In spite of exhortation, language, oil and general tinkering it refused to budge. Production slowed down and the management tore its hair.

    At last an expert was called in. He carefully examined the machine for a few minutes, then called for a hammer. Tapping the machine with one stroke, he announced that the the machine was ready to move. It did.

    Two days later the management received a bill for $250—the expert’s fee. The accountant was a righteous man who objected to overcharge. He demanded a detailed statement of the account.

    He received this:
    To tapping machine with hammer…$1.00
    Knowing where to tap ………………$249.00

    From Forbes magazine, 1921, and updated by me

  • Rene Descartes said “It is not enough to have a good mind. The main thing is to use it well.” What are your tips on using your mind well?

    Practice mindfulness meditation moment-by-moment.

    Observe the senses – and that includes the thoughts and emotions – from a distance. That creates space.

    In that space is your power to choose your response, so said Viktor Frankl. 

    Using your willpower, free yourself from the senses and reactivity and learn to play chess with the game of life.

    It’s crucial to practice patience with yourself and avoid getting discouraged if progress seems slow, as retraining the mind and emotions takes time.

  • How can I become a positive thinker and self-confident person?

    Break the old habit and institute the new habit.

    Meditate moment-by-moment and catch yourself when you’re drawn into negativity or low confidence, so you can unhook from it. Use your will and change your mind.

    Imagine yourself as confident and believe it. Fake it until you make it.

    Take up martial arts. Martial arts are a confidence booster.

    One tool that can help is positive autosuggestion. Please click HERE
    Another tool is to get a subliminal audio or video.

    Here are suggestions for meditation and daily life:

    MEDITATION INSTRUCTION:

    1) Off the cushion: Practice witnessing-monitoring meditation. Incorporate constant mindfulness meditation throughout your day to distance yourself from your thoughts, emotions, and sensations. Having some distance can free you from being compelled by your senses. As Viktor Frankl said, between stimulus and response there is a space, that space is our freedom to choose. Practice the art of non-attachment and willpower and only focus on positive or neutral thoughts and emotions. If your mind goes negative and you can’t change your mind, observe your thoughts, emotions, and sensations from a distance, knowing that they too shall pass. Disidentify with the negative and reside as the detached yet compassionate witnessing Awareness that you are. The Awareness within which everything arises, stays for some time, and dissolves back into. The Awareness that is being everyone and everything.

    2) On the cushion: Set aside formal meditation time once or twice a day, sitting in a meditation posture, and practice techniques such as counting breaths. Here is a recommended example of a good formal meditation practice, please click HERE Gradually increase your sitting time from a few minutes to 30 minutes per session or more. That will build a strong Center that you can take with you as you move throughout your life and strengthen you to be able to perform the witnessing-monitoring meditation.

    It’s crucial to practice patience with yourself and avoid getting discouraged if progress seems slow, as retraining the mind and emotions takes time.

  • Tao Te Ching 55

    Through the knowledge of harmony comes endurance.
    From endurance, illumination shines forth.
    By increasing life, fortune is bestowed.
    Controlling energy with the mind reveals true power.

    – Lao Tzu

    These qualities, and many more, are cultivated through the practice of martial arts.

  • WELCOME TO RAT SYNTHESIS: STREETWISE SELF-DEFENSE & FITNESS.

    RAT Synthesis is a comprehensive self-defense program that combines the best of three disciplines: Rapid Assault Tactics (R.A.T.), Kickboxing, and Chi Ling Pai® Gung Fu. It’s designed to empower individuals with effective streetwise skills while improving their fitness and self-confidence.

    Key Features:

    • Effective self-defense techniques: Learn to intercept, destroy, kick, strike, blast, and ground fight to safety.
    • Dynamic workout: Experience a physically demanding program that includes striking mitts, kicking shields, and practical sparring.
    • Street-proven strategies: Train with R.A.T., a groundbreaking method developed by renowned expert Paul Vunak, known for its devastating effectiveness.
    • Diverse skills: Enhance your self-defense arsenal with Kubotan training and the unique power of Chi Ling Pai® Gung Fu.
    • Four tiers of progression: Start with the basics of R.A.T. and progress through Kickboxing, Gung Fu, and self-mastery.
    • Multiple ranks: Earn certifications as you master each tier, demonstrating your skills and knowledge.
    • Optional modules:  Iron Hand and Body Conditioning program.

    RAT Synthesis is for:

    • Anyone who wants to learn practical self-defense skills
    • Individuals seeking a physically demanding workout
    • Those interested in exploring self-mastery through martial arts
    • People looking for a supportive and empowering community

    Benefits of RAT Synthesis:

    • Increased confidence and self-esteem
    • Enhanced physical fitness and coordination
    • Improved awareness and situational understanding
    • Development of practical self-defense skills
    • Sense of community and belonging

    If you’re looking for a comprehensive and effective self-defense program that will also improve your fitness and self-confidence, RAT Synthesis is the perfect choice. With its diverse training methods and supportive environment, you’ll learn the skills you need to stay safe and empowered.

  • EMBRACING SELF-MASTERY: A MARTIAL ARTIST’S GUIDE TO OVERCOMING PAIN

    Many of us live at the mercy of our senses, allowing our emotions and automatic reactions to dictate our lives. But what if we could break free from this cycle and cultivate a deeper sense of self-mastery? This guide, inspired by martial arts principles, offers insights into overcoming pain and achieving mental resilience.

    Understanding Pain:

    Pain is an inevitable part of life, both physical and emotional. While it serves an important biological function, it can also become a source of suffering. Shinzen Young’s insightful quote, “Pain x Resistance = Suffering,” highlights the key to overcoming this struggle. By accepting the pain and not resisting it, we can minimize its impact on our well-being.

    Mindfulness and Acceptance:

    Mindfulness meditation plays a crucial role in this process. By observing our thoughts and emotions without judgment, we begin to detach ourselves from the pain and its associated suffering. This practice allows us to see the pain for what it is – a temporary sensation – and prevents it from overwhelming us.

    Titiksha: Evenness of Mind in the Face of Suffering:

    The concept of titiksha, meaning even-mindedness in the face of suffering, further strengthens our resolve. By acknowledging the pain and accepting it as a transient experience, we cultivate a sense of equanimity and inner peace. This allows us to move through challenging situations with grace and resilience.

    Unattachment and Processing Emotions:

    Unattachment, the ability to let go of desires and aversions, is another essential tool. When we cling to pleasant experiences or resist unpleasant ones, we perpetuate the cycle of suffering. By practicing non-attachment, we can learn to process painful emotions without getting caught up in them.

    Practical Techniques:

    1. Martial arts Training. By gradually acclimating to intense training you can learn to go past barriers and master pain rather than pain mastering you.
    2. Witnessing-Monitoring Meditation: Throughout your day, practice observing your thoughts, emotions, and sensations with a non-attached awareness. This allows you to disengage from their influence and choose how to respond rather than react automatically.
    3. Formal Meditation: Dedicate time each day to sitting meditation. Focus on techniques like breath counting to cultivate focus and mental clarity. This builds your inner strength and enables you to maintain your composure in the face of pain. For a good example of a formal meditation practice, click HERE
    4. Positive Affirmations: Recite affirmations that align with your goals and aspirations. This reinforces positive self-belief and empowers you to overcome challenges. For some example affirmations, click HERE
    5. Subliminal Audio: Consider using subliminal audio recordings to subtly influence your subconscious mind with positive messages. This can be a supportive tool for enhancing your emotional resilience.

    Conclusion:

    Overcoming pain is a journey, not a destination. By incorporating mindfulness, acceptance, titiksha, and unattachment into your practice, you can cultivate the self-mastery needed to navigate life’s challenges with grace and strength. Remember, pain is inevitable, but suffering is optional, attributed to Buddha. You have the power to choose how you respond, and by embracing these practices, you can build the inner resilience needed to thrive in the face of adversity.

    It’s crucial to practice patience with yourself and avoid getting discouraged if progress seems slow, as retraining the mind and emotions takes time.

    For more information on Shinzen Young’s method of natural pain management, please click HERE