Such an action requires strength, speed, focus, control. But these physical aspects are only part of the practice; they are just the vehicle, not the journey itself.
True karate is based not only on the physical body, but also on moral philosophy or Bushido. In true karate, the body, mind and spirit—the whole person—must be developed simultaneously. Through kihon, kumite and kata we learn to control our movements. But more importantly, we learn to give up control too. We can perform the techniques without thinking about them, and remain focused without having to concentrate on any one thing. In essence, the body remembers how to move and the mind remembers how to be still.
This harmonious unity of mind and body is intensely powerful. Even the greatest physical strength and skill are no match for the power of wholeness.
The result of true karate is natural, effortless action, and the confidence, humility, openness and peace only possible through perfect unity of mind and body. This is the core teaching of Zen, the basis of Bushido, and karate philosophy.
While most karate-ka are probably familiar with Gichin Funakoshi sensei's 20 precepts, or even the Matsumura Makimono or the seven virtues of Bu, I would suggest that perhaps you may find some of the teachings of Sidhartha Guatama (Buddha) beneficial to your moral or philosophical training such as the Noble eight Fold Path or the Four Noble Truths.
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