The Way of the Empty Hand

The Way of the Empty Hand

My Life in Martial Arts

By Renshi Mornè Slabbert

The Way of the Empty Hand is a deeply personal martial arts memoir and philosophy book that explores the true meaning of the martial path — beyond belts, trophies, or techniques.

Written by Renshi Mornè Slabbert, a lifelong Goju Ryu Karate practitioner and instructor, this book reflects on over four decades of training, teaching, faith, discipline, hardship, and personal growth.

This is not a how-to fighting manual.

It is a book about how martial arts shapes the way we live.

🥋 What This Book Is About

Through real experiences inside and outside the dojo, this book explores:

• The journey from student to instructor
• Discipline, humility, and perseverance
• Teaching children, adults, and future black belts
• The spirit of the dojo and martial conduct
• Mind, body, and spirit as a unified path
• Faith, family, and resilience behind the gi
• The deeper meaning of Chi / Ki
• Lessons learned from students across generations

Each chapter blends story, reflection, and martial philosophy, offering insight not only for martial artists, but for anyone walking a disciplined and values-driven path.

🧘 Who This Book Is For

• Martial artists of any style
• Karate students, instructors, and sensei
• Coaches and mentors
• Readers interested in discipline, character, and self-mastery
• Anyone seeking meaning beyond physical training

📘 What You’ll Receive

• A professionally written PDF eBook
• Approximately 70 pages of reflections and teachings
• Includes a martial arts glossary, personal creed, and extended biography
• Written in clear, accessible language — reflective and inspirational

✍️ About the Author

Renshi Mornè Slabbert began his martial arts journey in 1984 and has spent over 40 years training, teaching, and mentoring students across South Africa and internationally. A 5th Dan Goju Ryu Karate practitioner, he founded and ran a dojo for many years and continues to live the martial path through teaching, writing, and coaching.

Now based in Abu Dhabi, his work focuses on martial arts as a way of life, not merely a physical discipline.

🥋 Final Note

If you believe martial arts is more than technique —

If you value discipline, integrity, humility, and lifelong learning —

This book was written for you.

This is the way of the empty hand.