Tag Archives: Entheogen

Sensei’s Journal: Entry # 21 – Why Keep A Katannabis Journal

20 Mar

It’s been quite a while since I posted a journal entry. Frankly, and I don’t know why, I’ve felt compelled to disseminate as much information as possible as to the process of developing your own Katannabis. The result is this new resource section https://senseijohn.me/2023/02/13/katannabis-syllabus-resources/ . This link has all your Katannabis resources.

For this journal entry, I’d like to share with you a few of my raw journal notes.

I keep a pad and my beloved fountain pens handy during all of my Katannabis sessions. I want to contemporaneously memorialize my observations and experiences while I am within the throes of the session. After I complete the session, I make my final notes. On a weekly basis I compile all my raw notes and make a list of those areas that require a more detailed exploration. In my experience, topics such as “time-slip,” “spatial distortion,” and the “Mandala-effect,” to name a few are a direct result of this process.

My detailed notes are then filed into one of my many Katannabis three-ring binder type notebooks. These notebooks are organized generally as to the substantive process of Katannabis, effects and experiences of Katannabis, “higher dimensional” notes, psychic self-defense notes and other highly advanced Katannabis experiences. 

I highly encourage you to maintain your own Katannabis journal. It is very important in early stages of Katannabis. I don’t think you can have a rewarding Katannabis experience without documenting your steps along the way. Trust me, your notes will be necessary as you modify your Katannabis syllabus. To this day, two decades later, though I have a core of Kata within my Katannabis syllabus, I still make adjustments to the order in which they are performed and other such adjustments. It is in the modifications that your experiences become heightened.

In addition, when you have a Katannabis experience, you want to document not only the experience but the conditions that gave rise to it. This serves a two-fold purpose. If the experience is positive, you will want to replicate it. If an experience cannot be replicated then it may not be an epiphenomenon of your Katannabis. It may simply be a one-time coincidence. 

If, on the other hand, your experience is one that is unpleasant, and “Yes,” you will have such an experience. You will want to fully understand the experience and the manner in which it arose. Then you can make an informed decision as to whether such an experience was an epiphenomenon of your Katannabis and if so, how to avoid it.

I know this sounds a bit like school and homework. You can make the process enjoyable. I love the feel of writing with a fountain pen, so I keep my pens handy during Katannabis. Each pen is filled with its own unique ink which adds to the enjoyment. I also include little sketches and diagrams. An artist I am not, but again, this adds to the overall experience. In fact, I look at the journaling process as a “Kata” within my syllabus. And, “Yes,” the act of writing can be looked at as a Kata. 

Katannabis ritual meditation is a serious endeavor. That being said, in addition to be enlightening, thought-provoking and eye-opening, it should be enjoyable. In my experience, I find the act of memorializing my experiences adds to such enjoyment. Have a puff or an edible, do you Kata and get out that pen and paper. Until next time, 

Cum superiorum privilegio veniaque * 

Sensei John Szmitkowski

* (with the privilege and permission of the superiors)

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Katannabis – Time-slip: Introductory Comments

7 Mar

Time-slip is a name I created to describe one of Katannabis’ earliest experiential phenomenon. Together with a phenomenon I call “spatial distortion,” time-slip is one of the first epiphenomenon of Katannabis meditation that you will experience. 

I first encountered time-slip while performing the mandala sequences of Suparunpei Kata. In very general terms, time-slip is the perception of an alteration of time as normally experienced otherwise. This can be a perceived slowing or quickening experience of time. It can also be the feeling of “lost” or “forgotten”time. I’ll give specific examples of each in a later submission. For now, I’d like to offer a few preliminary comments. 

As always, don’t let my experiences skew yours. My experiences and observations should only provide a framework upon which to build your own. It is for this reason that your should keep a journal of your experiences, preferably while still under the effects of a Katannabis session. 

You must keep in mind a few rudimentary facts about time. They are provided to make you think about your own experiments and experiences with time as it relates to your Katannabis meditation. Let these comments and your experiences motivate you to conduct more external (science based) research into the topic of time. This will ultimately deepen and enrich your Katannabis ritual mediation. Be intrigued! For example, I’ve attached a photo of my personal notes from a “Time Dilation” video from the World Science Festival. Really interesting stuff especially when you start to put that within the context of your Katannabis.

For this brief introductory article there are two points to bear in mind about time. The first point is a physical one. Time is subject to “dilation.” That is to say: The faster you move through space, the slower you move through time.”

The second point is a non-physical one. Time is a memory (past), a perception (current) and an anticipation (future). It is the merging of these three events that gives us the impression of a so-called “arrow of time.” I think, repeat, think, that it is this arrow of time that is “slipped” as your perform your Kata during a Katannabis session. My hypothesis is that you become so in the “now” that the memory of the move you just performed (past) is lost as soon as it is performed. You become so entangled with the current move (present) that there is no anticipation of the next move (future). Your body is merely on autopilot through the Kata. Your mind is divorced from the process – it is freed. (See Endnote # 1).Thus, I hypothesize, you no longer experience an arrow of time. (See endnote # 2).

Merge the above two points on time together and consider – You are moving through space, thus a very, very small dilution of time – imperceptible, but exists on some scale, measurable. The sequences themselves are the “snapshots” not “video” thus, all moves are present at the same time, regardless of appropriate sequences. Kata combined with the entheogen, cannabis, also effects directly your ability to perceive time. And there you go. A brief introduction to the epiphenomenon I call “time-slip.” In the next article on the topic, I’ll share with you some of my personal experiences of time-slip. In doing so, I will provide you with an indicia of what to expect so that you can recognize your own perception of time-slip as it manifests in your Katannabis.

Cum superiorum privilegio veniaque * 

Sensei John Szmitkowski

Endnotes:

*with the privilege and permission of the superiors

1. This is a drastically different experience from performing a Kata with a martial intent. In that performance, the overriding principle is one of “Zen-Ken-Ichi,” “Mind and fist are one.” Whereas in Katannabis, with the assistance of the cannabis entheogen, the mind, spirit, soul, whatever you wish to call it is separated from the body so as to vibrate to a higher dimension. This “time-slip” is encountered.

2. Experientially, I can say that my Kata becomes one of those picture books of static sequential images that you flip to create movement. That is to say the Kata is not a video, but rather multiple static images.

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Zazen – The “Big-Bang” Of All Kata

3 Mar

The Big-Bang of Kata: Zazen

Science is in agreement, at least until a new theory is agreed upon, that the universe started with a “Big-bang.” The Big Bang Theory essentially holds that our universe was once an infinitely small point of potential, a singularity. 

Katannabis and Kata-Rx also started out as a singularity; a single point of energy-potential. So, what is the singularity, compressed energy potential, of Kata? And by extension, Katannabis? 

The answer is – Zazen! Yes, seated meditation!

The analysis of my hypothesis begins with the idea that there are Kata said to be hidden within other Kata. Gekisai Kata is hidden within Fuku Kata. Any Kata with a “dai” suffix is hidden within a Kata with a “sho” suffix. If you understand that then you can extrapolate that in so far as the three battles of Sanchin Kata are found within all Kata * Then you can say that all kata are hidden within Sanchin. It is then asked – Within what is hidden Sanchin Kata?

The answer is Zazen – the three battles are found, even if only by minute analysis, within Zazen – you must breathe, move your body, though seated the body still moves on a microscopic cellular level, and state of mind is actually Mushin – no state of mind. By extension, Zazen is also a physical state, a spiritual state and a metaphysical state. Thus, no matter how they are delineated, Zazen encompasses all three battles of Sanchin.

  • Sanchin Kata is hidden in Zazen (seated meditation),
  • All Kata are hidden in Sanchin Kata,
  • Therefore: All Kata are hidden in Zazen.

Now – go practice your Katannabis and think deeply on this.

Cum superiorum privilegio veniaque 

Sensei John Szmitkowski

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Katannabis – Designing Your Kata Syllabus: Level III Kata

22 Feb

Level III Kata

In this level I recommend two kata. I am not sure if such is a necessity, but in my Katannabis, I find the two of the shortest duration Kata within the Goshin-Do system work best. You may find the same applies within you Kata curriculum. 

The goal of the two Kata is to foster the transition stage from a physical based experience to a more non-physical experience. Level II laid the foundation by using a Kata that had a non-physical significance. In this level, we try to duplicate that non-physicalness within the physicality of two Kata. I’ll repeat that the two Kata I use in my Katannabis are, first, Ananku and second Seipai (see Endnotes for a video)

The Kata will foster this transaction in two different ways. The first fast is performed with Kime (focus). Again, I find the best Kata should be short, fast, and powerful. I find a short Kata works best to allow you to transition the power and perception of power from a physical to a spiritual. How? Notwithstanding that you are physically performing the movements swift, powerful and with intent (Zen-Ken-Ichi, “Mind and fist are one”) you want to channel that energy not as a physical force but as a forceful energy wave emanating from the physical movement. Think of putting out a candle flame with your punch – it is the wave of energy, not the fist that does so.This shift of perception is the groundwork for transitioning from the realm of physical sensation to the realm of the energy wave which is derived from the physical movements of the kata. Like two different universes within one space, a co-existing multi-verse of perception. Think to the first time you learned to punch, or, gasp, break a board, you were told to penetrate the target but to “snap” your punch, not push through it. Thus, part and parcel with the physical penetration, there is a percussive energy wave.

The second Kata, also of a short direction is one that while using Kime, is performed with flowing, light, swift movements. It is the flowing nature of the performance that, I submit, is key. If you established a percussive energy wave with the first Kata, this Kata allows you to perceive yourself as riding that percussive energy wave. In my syllabus, the Kata Seipai fits that requirement perfectly. If you are unfamiliar with the Kata, you can easily find an online video. If you do not have a Kata that is performed in the manner of Seipai, then you can adapt one of your Kata. Remember, it is not necessarily the sequences of the Kata, but the manner in which they are performed – a subdued , snappy Kime, flowing, light, graceful movements. I would say this is akin to a Kata with Kime mixed with a Tai Chi performance influence. To test this theory, I tried substituting the Kata Wansu performed in this manner in lieu of Seipai and achieved acceptable results. Note that Wansu is also a relatively short duration Kata.

Visualization: At this level, your visualization is one of a Tableau Rosa – a blank slate. To the extension possible, you must view your actual surroundings with a gaze called “Boketto.” Boketto is to view your surroundings, preferably outdoors in nature, without preconception or definition. That is to say, look at a tree, or grass, etc without forming their name in your mind. It is the name that drags along a preconception. This is to be avoided. In its place, let your mind fill itself with the “Mind of a white belt.” Remember your first days, weeks and months in the Dojo – you did not know the names of techniques or Kata practiced by your seniors, rather you observed purely without association. This is your visualization and mindset during this level.

To recap a few highlights:

  • The levels progress from a physical based experience to a non-physical one;
  • This progression also affects one’s mental viewpoint from a physical based reality, Level I envisions the mythical Kata combat to a non-physical based experience, the combat becomes a non-physical energy;
  • Boketto and the “mind of white belt” will begin to transition you from the pre-judged, pre-conceived physical reality to the unknown and unseen non-physical dimensions that exists concurrently with our physical based one.

The Kata in these three levels allow you to now “cross the threshold” of that experience and build upon it in the next three levels. Intrigued? If so, you may want to click these two links on factors (internal & external, seen & unseen) that affect your Kata – do some research on it and blow your mind:  (internal) https://senseijohn.me/2022/08/08/internal-factors-involved-in-katannabis-part-1-of-2/ and (external) https://senseijohn.me/2022/09/12/external-factors-involved-in-katannabis-part-2-of-2/

Enjoy your Katannabis with a pure heart, 

Cum Superiorum Privilegio Veniaque

Sensei John Szmitkowski

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Katannabis – Designing Your Kata Syllabus: Level II Kata

21 Feb

Detail of levels

Level II Kata

Level Two is an interesting level. The kata you choose for this level will not be selected for its physical characteristics. That being said, the Kata must be one that is, again, performed with Kime (focus) and not one with exaggerated breathing and dynamic tension. Don’t worry, such kata will play a very important role in the levels to come.

The kata in this level will be one chosen for its non-physical properties. The kata must be associated, linked, intertwined with a memory. The memory may be one of a place, event, or person. The goal of level two is to call to mind the non-physical properties of kata. Each kata contains a mental state, emotion, psyche all found within the performer. This level wants the Katannabis practitioner to awaken him or her self to the non-physical properties of kata. This is particularly so with the ability of kata to link us to past events, persons or places with still reside within our psyche.

My chosen Kata provides an excellent example.

The Kata I use for the level is Kunchaba Kata (See below for a video featuring Hanshi Frank Van Lenten). It is a kata that is not part of the Goshin-Do style I learned. It was incorporated into the style after Shihan DeFelice left the Goshin-Do Kyokai. A member of the Kyokai that became a great friend in my later years was Shihan Wayne Norlander. Shihan Norlander, or “Sensei Wayne,” as I knew him attained the rank of  Ku-Dan, ninth-degree black belt at the time his untimely death on May 18th 2011. Sensei Wayne, and I would share many thoughts, ideas, theories and yes, even kata. One such kata he shared with me was Kunchaba. In exchange, I taught his two senior Yudansha the Ufuichiku No Eaku (Oar) Kata.

Sensei’s passing, May 18th, 2011, was a Wednesday. Every Wednesday, since that melancholy day, I have performed Kunchaba in his memory. This had two effects. First, in the thirteen years, more than 676 Wednesdays, since that day, the Kunchaba Kata has been inextricably linked to Sensei’s memory and honor. In essence, it is imbued with his spirit; almost to a point of personification. Second, Wednesday has effectively become a sacred, almost “holy” day for me. Many strange events have taken place on a Wednesday – even having my life saved, you can read about that here  https://senseijohn.me/2017/02/01/a-deceased-sensei-saved-my-life/ . Thus, for my Katannabis, it is the perfect kata for level two.

Do not despair if you do not presently have such a kata in your repertoire. You can also “manufacture” the personal connection. For example, you can use a kata that you 

  • Have a special memory or story attached to, especially if it pertains to your instructor or the learning of the Kata;
  • A favorite Kata that you performed on vacation, or for a special event that would invoke a memory of that special place;
  • A Kata you otherwise enjoy that you could imbue with memory by performing regularly throughout you daily life;
  • Gasp!! A Kata you perform at tournaments. Yeah, being no fan of the superficiality of tournaments, I’m grasping at straws here to get you started on your Katannabis meditation journey.

As Katannabis ritual meditation uses the physical battles of Kata as a catalyst to explore the Non-physical Battles, to wit: the Spiritual (psyche, emotions, etc) and the Metaphysical (higher frequency and dimensional environments), it is at this level that the non-physical components of a Kata needs to move to the forefront. Choose your Kata wisely and imbue it with as much non-physical energy as you can. This will only increase in efficacy as your walk further down the path of your Katannabis journey. Most recently, I have rearranged my Katannabis Kata syllabus to begin my session with my level two Kata – Kunchaba. It has become that powerful. Though not a plant, kata is almost an entheogen in and of itself. 

Cum Superiorum Privilegio Veniaque

Sensei John Szmitkowski

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Katannabis – Advanced Resources

21 Feb

Katannabis Advanced Topics (NOT for the Faint-at-heart)

The following topics are reserved for the Advanced Katannabis practitioner and beyond the reach of the beginner. Frankly, peruse, read and study these topics ONLY if you have at least one year of Katannabis experience. To do otherwise is to court danger.

Unlike the Syllabus and Resources, which are presented in the order you should learn them, the Advanced Concepts are not presented in a “syllabus-style” order. I have endeavored to present them in the order in which they unveiled and revealed themselves to me. This may not necessarily be your experience. If you have an experience in your Katannabis, please try to match same with any of the following topics:

Katannabis – Advanced Topics:

Internal factors interacting with Katannabis: https://senseijohn.me/2022/08/08/internal-factors-involved-in-katannabis-part-1-of-2/

External factors interacting with Katannabis:  https://senseijohn.me/2022/09/12/external-factors-involved-in-katannabis-part-2-of-2/

Mandala Effect:

Introduction: https://senseijohn.me/2023/01/30/katannabis-mandala-effect-introduction/

A Little Mandala Fun: https://senseijohn.me/2022/07/25/katannabis-the-mandala-effect-a-little-fun/

Spatial Distortion:

Time-Slip:

Prayer-Effect:

Introduction:  https://senseijohn.me/2022/10/03/katannabis-and-prayer-enhanced-meditation/

Prayer & (Kata) Sacrifice:  https://senseijohn.me/2022/10/17/katannabis-effect-of-sacrifice-prayer/

Sanchin-Dai Kata (The Great Three Battles):

Introduction:  https://senseijohn.me/2022/10/31/the-great-three-battles/

            Ascendancy & Positional Coincidence (Introduction): https://senseijohn.me/2023/03/10/katannabis-ascendancy-positional-coincidence/

Hypnagogenic State:

Coming Soon

My Personal Katannabis Journal:

My full Katannabis journal (in reverse chronological order: https://senseijohn.me/category/journal-senseis-kata-rx-exploration/

Cum superiorum privilegio veniaque 

Sensei John Szmitkowski

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Katannabis – Designing Your Syllabus: Level I Kata

17 Feb

Detail of levels

Level I Kata

(This discussion is geared towards the martial artist who is familiar with Kata. Non-martial artists can learn and use my Kata curriculum I developed specifically for them – please return to the Katannabis page for a link)

About five minutes before a Katannabis session, take a puff of the cannabis entheogen and sit quietly in Zazen. I let the day, with its attendant pressures, worries, joys, sorrow, wash away. Once I am a “Tableau Rasa,” a blank slate, I am ready to start. The starting point is Level I Kata. 

Level I takes into account the basic biological fact that the food of the brain, the residence of the higher state of mind, is oxygen. Yes, your brain, an organ, requires proteins, amino acids and other such nutrients. But, without oxygen, it ceases to function almost immediately. Doubt me, fine – squeeze your throat for four to six seconds then once you wake-up from passing out, stop reading and walk away, you’re not ready for Katannabis!

There are distinct characteristics of the two Kata that you will perform at this level of Katannabis:

  • The creation of a need, or hunger, for oxygen;
  • The similar/dissimilar aspects of the two Kata;
  • The performer’s Kata visualization;
  • Start having “The Passion” – get the energy flowing.

Hunger for oxygen:

The overriding purpose of the early levels is to generate a need for oxygen. You must get the “Blood flowing.” At this stage it is important that the kata be entirely “physical.” That is to say the entire kata is performed swiftly with kime, focus. The overall rhythm of the kata is martial in nature. By this I mean that the sequences are performed physically and spiritually as if you are in combat. By contrast, a methodic, expanded breathing, dynamic tension Kata, will not suffice at this level. 

Similar/dissimilar Kata sequences:

The two Kata in this level must be similar in pattern but dissimilar in specific movement. This is a physical key that will foster a non-physical attribute of Kata. The chosen Kata effectively build upon the other. This means that the movements of the second, more “advanced” Kata are “hidden” within the first. 

Using my Goshin-Do Karate Kata syllabus, I chose Fuku and Gekisai Kata. Other kata that meet the similarity criteria would include, but not be limited to:

  • Gekisai-Dai-Ichi, Gekisai-Dai-Ni, and the other Gekisai variants;
  • Any kata in the Taikiyoku, Pinan or Heian Kata series;
  • Generally any Kata that differentiates between a “sho” (little) and “dai” (great) suffix, Kanku-sho and Kanku-dai, Gojushiho-sho and Gojushiho-dai.

The similarity of Kata pattern with dissimilar specific movements highlights individuality being lost into a more encompassing oneness. The cannabis entheogen connects the Kata mentally by subconsciously highlighting the differences in the two similar kata. Within the same general framework (analogous to the “physical”) there exists a more divergent, fluid, evolving level within the smaller sequences (analogous to the (“spiritual”). While performing the first Kata physically, your mind subconsciously begins to “process as if performing” the hidden moves of the second Kata. When you perform the second Kata physically, your memory is subconsciously revisiting the first kata. 

This phenomenon introduces, on a subconscious level, the non-physical attributes of Kata. These attributes gain more and more emphasis in the coming levels.

Performer’s Kata Visualization:

The key here is as your to visualize the physical application of the movements. You should visualize fighting the imaginary opponent inferred to by the Kata. It is this physical application to which many martial artists devote themselves to. When this mental process is enacted with a partner it is called “Bunkai.” (See endnote # 1) Many a Kata practitioner will spend the majority of their time visualizing the Kata’s inherent imaginary battle. In Katannabis, this is but a starting point. Like Sanchin, all Kata have “Three Battles.” The three battles are not merely limited to the physical. To do so limits you to one battle – the Physical. (See Endnote #2). Below are my visualization notes from my personal Katannabis Journals.

Start the “Passion” – get the energy flowing:

In order to enter the higher mental dimensions, one must begin to generate energy. Let us simply label this energy as “passion” for now. Passion in this sense is analogous with any forceful state-of-mind, or being fervent. This quasi-emotional state generates an energy, senses and responses sail up and down the nervous system to the mind and body. You “feel the burn” not only physically but also mentally. It is this physically derived energy that must be made manifest through the Kata. Be passionate with your Kata!

Conclusion:

The above is sufficient to get your starting with developing your own Katannabis curriculum. Effort, experimentation, trial and error, and documenting your efforts, will produce results. Hey look, it only took me twenty of the over fifty years of Kata practice to develop Katannabis. 

Cum superiorum privilegio veniaque 

Sensei John Szmitkowski

For those readers unfamiliar with Fuku and Gekisai Kata (the Goshin-Do Gekisai is actually the Gekisai-Dai-San of Sensei Seikichi Toguchi), here are two video: Fuku is from my Kata Lab series and Gekisai features historical footage of Hanshi Frank Van Lenten, enjoy:

Endnotes:

1. A full discussion of what I consider “Bunkai” is beyond the ken of this discussion. Suffice to say if you understand that Kata exists on the three levels set forth in endnote # 2, then and in that event, Bunkai the analysis of Kata) must also extend to those three battles. 

2. For too long to remember when it started, I have advocated that the “Three Battles” of Sanchin Kata, and by extension, every other Kata, must include the non-physical elements of Kata, namely:

Battle (or attribute 1): The physical,

Battle (or attribute 2): The Spiritual (non-physical): psyche, emotions, state-of-mind, such as Mushin, Zanshin, Nenjuushin, etc,

Battle (or attribute 3); The Metaphysical: or environmental;, the physical and non-physical geography, or terrain, within which the Kata is performed.

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Katannabis – Designing Your Syllabus: An Overview

17 Feb

Katannabis Meditation: Overview To Designing Your Kata Syllabus

Katannabis ritual meditation is not based upon any specific Kata. Having said that, my experimentation and experience have led me to conclude that there is a specific template for choosing and organizing the Kata that you may wish to incorporate into your own Katannabis ritual. In this way, you do not have to learn any new Kata, rather, you already have the Kata tools, you need only learn the Way of Katannabis (Katannabis-Do).

That being said, I do have two important caveats:

First, not all Karate, or other Kata-based martial arts systems perform Sanchin Kata (or similar Kata). As such, learning Sanchin is highly recommended. I will have video tutorials available in the future. You can; however, immediately start designing your own Katannabis Kata syllabus.

Second, for those readers that do not know a Kata. Don’t worry, you can learn a Kata that I specifically designed for you for FREE. Now, you, too can experience the life enhancing benefits of Katannabis. A link to my FREE online course where you can learn at your own pace in the comfort of your home is contained in Endnote # 1.

Now, for the general attributes of each Level of the Katannabis meditation experience. Again, please keep in mind that each Level will ave a more in-depth discussion. For now, please use this resource to identify Kata within your system that maybe a candidate(s) for each level.

Keep in mind that, generally, each level builds upon the next facilitating the transformation from a physical-based reality to a more spiritual-based experience.

Level I:

Facilitates the physical. Kata are strong, swift and create a need of oxygen intake. One important characteristic is that the kata contain similar sequences and a similar pattern with one building on the other. This level should have two kata.

Level II:

This level builds upon the first in that it facilitates and augments the physical experience. There is a very important aspect to the Kata you place in this level. While it should be a physically challenging Kata, it should be one that contains a very high level of personal significance and attachment for you. There will be more on that in the detailed discussion. For now, consider placing your “favorite” Kata within this level. Perhaps one that you use in tournaments (gasp, not a fan of such triviality!).

Level III:

This level should begin the transition from the mere physical experience to a more non-physical esoteric experience. For this reason I recommended two Kata. One that is purely physical and another that is less so, a prime example are the Kata of the Goju-ryu Karate style that places enhanced emphasis on breathing and muscle control. Note that if your system does not contain such Kata, with a little research you can view my Kata videos of the Kata within the next levels, see the breathing methodology and incorporate not into your own Kata. Again, it is not necessarily a specific Kata, but a specific method. 

Level IV:

This level will complete the transition from the physical-based Kata experience to the non-physical experience of Kata.In my research, I find that it is imperative to use Kata that contains the enhanced breathing methodology in one form of another.

Level V:

This level takes you deeper and deeper into the Katannabis non-physical meditative experience. I can’t say that this will be true in all cases, bt I find that the more advanced Kata of a karate syllabus will be needed at this level.

Level VI:

This level hard-wires the spiritual experience into your physical reality. In my experience, the only, repeat, only Kata that foots this bill is the Sanchin Kata. Deceptive in its “simplicity” it is deeply advanced, introspective and esoteric by its very nature. I am unsure, even skeptical is any other Kata modified to the method of Sanchin would be sufficient. Consider well learning, or at least acquainting yourself with Sanchin Kata at this level. It will take you a minute to learn and a lifetime to master.

You conclude this level with Zazen, seated meditation. Thus ending the Katannabis ritual. You will attempt to maintain the meditative state produced by the Katannabis ritual through such esoteric concepts as Zanshin, “the Remaining Mind” and Nenjuushin, “the Everyday Mind” and similar concepts discussed in later chapters.

Closing Comments:

The above seems relatively simple. Trust me, the above summarizes decades of my mental “Kata Laboratory.”  For almost fifty years, I lived my motto of “Think * Sweat * Experiment” with Kata. It hasn’t always been easy. In the next few pages, I’ll dissect each kata, and the functionality of each level. For those interested in Kata and Kata Bunkai as you’ve never experienced before (yeah, I know bold statement) please use this convenient link to my online Kata Laboratory. 

KATA LABORATORY

Cum Superiorum Privilegio Veniaque

Sensei John Szmitkowski

Endnotes:

1. Don’t Know Kata? Please use this link to learn my Kata-Rx For Wellness for FREE in your own home, at your convenience: https://kata-rx.teachable.com/p/core-kata-course

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Katannabis Syllabus & Resources

13 Feb

New To Katannabis?

Katannabis Initiates Start Here

ALL, I repeat, ALL Katannabis methods, curriculum and resources will be conveniently archived here. Simply put, this is your starting point and continuing point of reference.  

Note that many of the articles contain photos of my handwritten journals. Please click and the photos and read them! They were often made during or immediately after my Katannabis sessions. As such, they contain some of my most contemporaneous insights. My entire Katannabis journal is well over 300 pages, so avail yourself of this powerful resource and “click the pic!”

Follow my Katannabis on Instagram at “1day1lifetime”

Cannabis As An Entheogen 

  Introduction:  https://senseijohn.me/2023/02/06/katannabis-cannabis-as-an-entheogen/

Guidelines:

Need for guidelines: https://senseijohn.me/2023/02/11/katannabis-guidelines-introduction/

Guideline # 1: Respect  https://senseijohn.me/2023/02/13/katannabis-guideline-1-respect/

Guideline # 2: Dosage https://senseijohn.me/2023/02/13/katannabis-guideline-2-dosage/

Guideline # 3: Post-Katannabis Kata-Rx (Exiting Katannabis):  https://senseijohn.me/2019/11/06/katannabis-guideline-1-exiting-katannabis/

The curriculum is divided into two sub-categories. First and foremost, as that is the most convenient for me, is the curriculum for martial artists that are already intimately familiar with kata. Second, is the curriculum for non-martial artists that with to delve into Katannabis ritual mediation.

Curriculum Overview (For those readers familiar with Kata):

Don’t practice Kata? Learn for FREE in my online Kata-Rx course https://kata-rx.teachable.com/p/core-kata-course

My Katannabis Curriculum (for reference): https://senseijohn.me/2023/02/13/katannabis-my-katannabis-kata-syllabus/

Designing your own Katannabis curriculum using the Kata of your system:

“Levels” of Katannabis meditation – an overview template: https://senseijohn.me/2023/02/17/katannabis-designing-your-syllabus-an-overview/

Levels of Katannabis meditation (In-depth):

General commentary: I would suggest that you understand each level and begin to fit your Kata within each level. Start by practicing the entire Kata syllabus you have developed, but deep dive into one level at a time then move on when comfortable but revisit prior levels more deeply.

Level I Kata: https://senseijohn.me/2023/02/17/katannabis-designing-your-syllabus-level-i-kata/

Level II Kata: https://senseijohn.me/2023/02/21/katannabis-designing-your-kata-syllabus-level-ii-kata/

Level III Kata: https://senseijohn.me/2023/02/22/katannabis-designing-your-kata-syllabus-level-iii-kata/

Level IV Kata: https://senseijohn.me/2023/02/23/katannabis-designing-your-kata-syllabus-level-iv-kata/

Level V Kata: https://senseijohn.me/2023/03/01/katannabis-designing-you-kata-syllabus-level-v-kata/

Level VI Kata: https://senseijohn.me/2023/03/02/katannabis-designing-your-kata-syllabus-level-vi/

Zazen (Seated Meditation):

Relationship of Zazen & Kata:   https://senseijohn.me/2023/03/03/zazen-the-big-bang-of-all-kata/

Zanshin (Remaining Mind):  carry the enlightenment with you – Nenjuushin (Everyday Mind) also 

Epiphenomenon to be aware of with Katannabis:

Souvenir-Effect of Katannabis:

Introduction: https://senseijohn.me/2019/10/16/kata-rx-souvenir-effect/

Kata with eyes closed – intro to:

Spatial Distortion:

Time slip (link to introductory comments – detailed discussions can be found on the “Advanced Resources” tab below)  https://senseijohn.me/2023/03/07/katannabis-time-slip-introductory-comments/

Prayer-effect & Kata Sacrifice (Introduction):

Katannabis – Prayer-effect: https://senseijohn.me/2022/10/03/katannabis-and-prayer-enhanced-meditation/

Katannabis as a Sacrifice to prayer:  https://senseijohn.me/2022/10/17/katannabis-effect-of-sacrifice-prayer/

Mandala effect of Kata:

Introduction: https://senseijohn.me/2023/01/30/katannabis-mandala-effect-introduction/

A Little Mandala Fun: https://senseijohn.me/2022/07/25/katannabis-the-mandala-effect-a-little-fun/

Hypnagogic effect – intro more detailed in advanced 

For Your Consideration:

Your Obi, A toll of the Shaman: https://senseijohn.me/2022/02/21/senseis-journal-entry-19-symbols-of-the-shaman/

My full Katannabis journal (in reverse chronological order):

I have spent the last twenty of my over fifty year Kata experience experimenting with Katannabis (Kata combined with the cannabis entheogen as a mediation ritual). An integral; part of my Katannabis journey has been to document and memorialize my methods, experiments, findings and experiences. Here I will share with you some of the Katannabis meditation experiences and phenomenon, good and bad, that I have experienced over the years. Naturally, this is an abridged sharing. If I shared the full content of my ten notebooks, well, it would be voluminous.

You may view my journal (in reverse chronological order) by clicking this link: https://senseijohn.me/category/journal-senseis-kata-rx-exploration/

My personal journal of Katannabis insights & experiences: https://senseijohn.me/category/journal-senseis-kata-rx-exploration/

Advanced Topics (NOT for the Faint-at-heart)

The following topics are reserved for the Advanced Katannabis practitioner and beyond the reach of the beginner. Frankly, peruse, read and study these topics ONLY if you have at least one year of Katannabis experience. To do otherwise is to court danger:   https://senseijohn.me/2023/02/21/katannabis-advanced-resources/

Cum superiorum privilegio veniaque 

Sensei John Szmitkowski

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Katannabis – My Katannabis Kata Syllabus

13 Feb

My Katannabis Kata Curriculum

(Katannabis-Do – The Way of Katannabis)

My personal Kata Curriculum used in my personal Katannabis ritual meditation is made up of the following kata. All Kata are derived from the Goshin-Do Karate style that I have practiced for over five decades. In due course I will include on this site videos of the Kata. For the time being, should you desire to see the Kata, you may use this convenient link to my Karate site: https://senseijohn.me/kata-syllabus/ .

As a result of my daily Katannabis, I have slightly modified the Kata so as to provide a seamless mediative experience. Interestingly enough, the modifications also have a corollary effect in the martial aspect of the kata. That is to say that the modification yields a differing practical application of self-defense techniques.

Here are the kata of my Katannabis ritual. To assist you in creating your own Katannabis syllabus I have placed the kata into levels of functionality; what is to be desired from the kata performance. 

Level 1:

Fuku

Gekisai

Level 2:

Kunchaba

Seisan (optional)

Level 3:

Ananku

Seipai

Level 4:

Seienchin

Level 5:

Suparunpei

Level 6:

Sanchin

Zazen 

As my Katannabis is an on-going process (as yours should also be), I have recently, December 2022, began experimenting with the order of the Kata. This is producing some interesting results which I am documenting for further study. To this end, I will memorialize my current Katannabis syllabus.

Level I:

Kunchaba

Seisan (optional)

Level II:

Ananku

Seisan

Level III:

Fuku

Gekisai

Level IV:

Seienchin

Level V:

Suparunpei

Level VI:

Sanchin

Zazen

As you can see, it was only the first three Levels that were modified. I will not; however, that I have also created a new Kata, I call “Sanchin-Dai,” the “Great Three Battles.” Depending upon my meditative state, I sometimes am able to replace the three Kata in Levels IV, V and VI, which I collectively call my “Sacred Trinity” of Kata with the Sanchin-Dai Kata. This has some very interesting effects. Briefly, the Sanchin-Dai Kata encompasses all of the physical and non-physical attributes of the Sacred Trinity into one, slightly abbreviated Kata. I hope to have a video shortly. 

Cum superiorum privilegio veniaque 

Sensei John Szmitkowski

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Katannabis Guideline # 2 – Dosage

13 Feb

Katannabis Guideline # 2: Dosage 

Katannabis dosage is a tricky subject. It is an involved topic. Given the many forms of investing the entheogen, dosage will vary from individual to individual based upon method of ingestion, physical stature of the participant and mental and emotional state at the time of commencing the Katannabis meditation ritual. Further, the exploration of Katannabis is an on-going endeavor. I am constantly experimenting with potency, dosage and frequency of ingestion during a Katannabis session.

Much more will be addressed in the “Advanced Katannabis Topics” section. For now, I would generally recommend that you begin with the smallest dosage possible. I like to ingest my Katannabis via flower. As such, I generally begin with a single puff of the flower. I then sit quietly in Zazen for about five minutes before commencing my Kata. The goal is to allow the entheogen to clear out all the psychological blockage that was accumulated during the course of the day but enable me to proficiently perform the underlying Kata. Katannabis can not be performed while “stoned” – the Kata cannot be performed sloppily. Such overindulgence will ruin the Katannabis experience. 

So, start with a small dosage of cannabis. You can always add to that if necessary. Further, I recommend that you document the strain involved, the potency of THC and the dosage utilized. This will help you formulate the highest level of your own Katannabis experience. 

Cum superiorum privilegio veniaque 

Sensei John Szmitkowski

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Katannabis Guideline # 1 – Respect

13 Feb

Katannabis Guideline # 1:

Respect – Kata, Cannabis & Smoking Guns

“All Kata begin and end with respect.” I’ve had that quote drilled into my psyche since the age of ten  by my Sensei. Even to the uninitiated, it is clear from the “Acts of preparation” to Kata, that respect permeates the Kata experience. By acts of preparation I am referring to the three step process that is performed prior to starting and at the end of each kata. Those steps, at the start of kata, are:  a bow of respect, mukso (meditation symbol) and ready posture (Hache-dache). At the end of the Kata, the acts are performed in reverse order so as to end with a bow of respect.

In so far as Katannabis incorporates Kata, the acts are incorporated into Katannabis. For most, this would appear to mean that the bow of respect, mukso and ready posture should be performed prior to the first Kata of the session. This IS wrong. Why?

The cannabis entheogen should be utilized prior to the first Kata so as to allow the entheogen to take effect. Effectively, the use of the entheogen is the first “Kata” movement. It is, therefore, appropriate that the acts of preparation be performed prior to ingesting the entheogen. As I prefer cannabis flower to deliver my entheogen, I perform the acts prior to filling my pipe. I then full my pipe, take a puff and sit in Zazen (seated meditation) for about five minutes prior to the first Kata.

The acts of preparation used as above provide an external symbol of the respect to be shown to the flower, the Kata and the Katannabis meditation ritual. The symbol merely externalizes the inner spiritual, non-physical, respect that you as the participant carry inside you for all aspects of the process. The respect differentiates the Katannabis practitioner from the average recreational user.

Once my Katannabis session has concluded, I perform the acts in reverse order. I assume the ready posture, perform the standard karate-do mukso and mindfully bow in respect.

Respect is extremely important in Katannabis. Katannabis has great potential for higher meditative exploration. Such power demands respect. A failure to respect the cannabis entheogen, the Kata, the entire process can have dire, unforeseen and even unrecognizable consequences. Do not tempt fate – show respect. To understand Katannabis is to understand the essence of an esoteric practice. As with any such practice, obtaining this understanding is effectively “playing with a loaded gun.” In the words of Rabbi Ariel Bar Tzadok, “You’ll either learn to use it correctly or you will end up shooting yourself in the foot – either way, you will respect it!” (See below) 

Treat the entire Katannabis meditation process with respect beginning with the cannabis itself, the Kata, the ritual and yes, even yourself – all should be treated with respect.

Cum superiorum privilegio veniaque 

Sensei John Szmitkowski.

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Katannabis – Guidelines Introduction

11 Feb

Katannabis Guidelines – Need For Guidelines

Katannabis is like any prescription. 

Look at a prescription for any medication. It contains instructions. Whether you read them or not is up to you. Failing to read them exposes you to a potential for peril. In my personal experience, I have had medication with sometimes quirky instructions – “take with meals,” “do not take before or after consuming grapefruit” (yeah that was a weird one) and the instruction I bet nobody follows, “do not drive or operate equipment after taking.” Whether the directions seem logical or quirky, they must be followed lest the import of the prescription be diminished, or worse, you are in danger.

The same is true for Katannabis. The guidelines I proffer may seem logical, others may seem quirky. But, they are proffered for a purpose. Some I have learned the hard way. When you combine the external movements, the internal processes (breathing, relaxing and tensing, and internal energy flows), visualization and perception shifts of Kata-RX with your cannabis entheogen, there is a profound result. You must be mindful of, lets say, the potential “side effects.” The guidelines will identify and address those side effects. Trust me, there are entirely something you are unaware of and unaccustomed to.

Cum superiorum privilegio veniaque 

Sensei John Szmitkowski

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Katannabis – Cannabis As An Entheogen

6 Feb

Cannabis Entheogen: Its purpose in Katannabis

I wholeheartedly advocate the wellness and mindfulness aspect of Kata. I fell in love with kata at age ten; over fifty years ago. I embrace the idea that anyone can and should learn and perform kata. Thus, Kata need not be taught solely as part of a karate program. I called this belief “Kata-RX.” 

 I not only advocate Kata-Rx, I practice it daily. Twenty years ago, I started feeling that something was missing. Kata sustained and nourished me. But I felt more was possible. Through contemplation and experimentation I realized that a more fulfilling experience and a greater ascendancy was possible. Cannabis was the key. Cannabis accelerated the process. What do I mean?

 Experience showed me that a certain level of mindfulness was achieved after performing Kata-Rx for about thirty to forty-five minutes followed by ten minutes of Zazen meditation. Experimentation showed me that a micro-dose of cannabis prior to the start of Kata-RX accelerated the mindfulness process. The micro dose prior to Kata-RX took me to that heightened state achieved at the end of a Kata session at the very start. The Katannabis experience, Kata combined with Cannabis,  then took me further. The result was stunning. 

For the last twenty years, I have been exploring, documenting and memorializing my Katannabis. Cannabis, as an entheogen, is an accelerant that quickens and elevates that state of meditative, higher, consciousness that can derived solely from Kata. It is a natural entheogen that requires no processing to be effective. As an entheogen, it is a tool to assist the Katannabis practitioner on achieving a higher state of physical and non-physical self.

 A word about cannabis dosage. I want to stress that it is important that you use a micro-dose of cannabis. You are not looking to get “stoned.” 

You must be able to perform the Kata with technical proficiency. Sloppy, stoned Kata will NOT invoke the physical and mental benefits of Katannabis. If stoned you will not achieve the fullest Katannabis experience.

The casual observer should not notice a difference in your Kata performance during the Katannabis ceremony. I emphasize casual observer because to the enlightened observer (one that has expanded consciousness through Katannabis) a difference can be seen in your eyes during the Kata. The eyes reflect your your inner consciousness. Thus, they will disclose an enhanced Kata experience to those with similar vision.

So a little goes a long way. Consideration should also be given to the manner in which you interact with and utilize the cannabis. Simply put, treat the cannabis with respect. Just like your kata, the more respect you pay to cannabis the more embracing your experience and relationship with the herb.

If Katannabis is not for you, that’s okay. Fine. But keep the dogmatic criticisms to yourself. Particularly those that think the “masters of old” were angels. Do your research, many consumed alcohol to excess. Some even advocated gambling, brawling and frequenting prostitutes as a means of testing and bettering their karate. So, before you open your mouth, know the history. See, for example, a comment on a Facebook page regarding one such master (from his top student no less).

I’ve also attached my notes regarding some of the pioneers of entheogen research, Timothy Wyllie, Sasha Shulgin and Terrence McKenna to encourage you to take a deep dive into not only Katannabis, but also entheogen in general and how they can be applied to Kata. 

Cum superiorum privilegio veniaque 

(with the privilege and permission of the superiors)

Sensei John Szmitkowski

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