About me
Hi, I’m Richard — part-time human, full-time believer that the universe isn’t just winging it (even if I sometimes am).
I’m big on the idea that there’s something out there nudging us forward—call it energy, fate, or just a strong cup of coffee. Whatever gets you out of bed, fired up, and moving toward something you actually want… that’s the good stuff. Honestly, what more do you need?
I’ve spent over 36 years in martial arts—training, sparring, competing, and teaching at a high level. That’s a lot of kicks, a lot of bruises, and an alarming number of times saying, “Yeah, I meant to do that.”
But somewhere along the way, I realised something: martial arts isn’t just about fighting or proving you can outdo someone else. It’s about levelling up yourself. Pushing limits. Chasing progress. Repeating the same kick a thousand times until your body gets it—even if your brain checked out around kick 300.
Because in the end, it’s not just about being better at martial arts… it’s about being better, full stop.
Taekwondo runs on five core principles: Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control, and Indomitable Spirit. Sounds very wise and balanced—and it is—but trust me, they get drilled into you so thoroughly they might as well be stitched into your dobok. Every martial art has its own version… this one just sticks with you (sometimes mid–roundhouse kick).
Somewhere along the journey, I felt a shift. Call it an urge, a nudge, or the universe tapping me on the shoulder saying, “Alright mate, time for a new challenge.” I realised I didn’t just want to test people—I wanted to help people. And let’s be honest, helping someone feel better is a lot nicer than kicking them (generally more appreciated, too).
That’s when I found Anma. I’d been on the receiving end of treatments for about 15 years and always walked away thinking, “Why don’t more people know about this?” A few years ago, it clicked—this wasn’t just something I enjoyed, it was something I wanted to do.
They say the master appears when the student is ready. In my case, the student appeared… and politely (read: relentlessly) pestered the master until he gave in. Huge credit to Eric Birbeck, who eventually agreed to teach me. What followed was four years of intense training—study, homework, and hands-on practice—covering Anma, Seitai, Shinden Jutsu, and Kenku Jutsu. Not exactly a weekend hobby.
Four years later, the learning hasn’t stopped—because it never does. There’s always more to explore, more to refine, and more ways to help people feel better.
If any of this sparks your interest—or you’re just curious what it’s like to swap being kicked for being healed—feel free to get in touch. And thanks for taking the time to read my story.
The journey continues...