Numerous videos of Capoeira Angola capture its vibrant culture, history, and unique techniques. Each clip highlights the blend of music, movement, and community, showcasing intricate footwork and acrobatics set to the rhythms of traditional instruments like the berimbau. Performers in white attire exemplify the spirit of Capoeira, creating a celebration of unity and resistance. These recordings also reveal various styles and include insights from masters and practitioners, enhancing the understanding of this Brazilian heritage.

In Today’s installment, we examine Body Games Capoeira and Ancestry, A Film by Richard Pakleppa, Matthias Röhrig Assunção and Mestre Cobra Mansa.

Capoeira is an Afro-Brazilian art that blends dance, combat, theatre, and music, with its origins documented among enslaved Africans in Brazilian port cities, reflecting a rich cultural tapestry created under the duress of oppression. It is unique as the only world-practiced martial art with African heritage, intricately linked to the Angolan game engolo, which serves not only as a physical expression but also as a profound cultural narrative.

The documentary film Jogo de Corpo/Body Games follows capoeira master Cobra Mansa and his friends as they explore the historical connections between their art, slavery, and identity, weaving together personal stories that highlight their struggles and triumphs. Through interviews and narratives, the documentary features capoeira masters and engolo players on both sides of the Atlantic, emphasizing the significance of cultural preservation and the resilience of those who practice these arts, as they navigate their identities in a modern world where their heritage is often at risk of being forgotten. In a poignant manner, the film delves into the rich traditions of capoeira, illustrating how this unique martial art form evolved from the oppressive realities of slavery into a vibrant expression of freedom, community, and creativity. As Cobra Mansa and his companions share their experiences, viewers are invited to witness the powerful synergies between movement, music, and memory, making a compelling case for why preserving these cultural legacies is crucial in today’s rapidly changing society. Furthermore, the film sparks discussions about the importance of embracing one’s roots, fostering a deeper understanding of how art can serve as a vehicle for social change, healing, and unity in the face of adversity, ultimately showcasing the indelible link between cultural identity and the human experience.

And this is my favorite video of him, where he shows us all how he earned his nicknames Cobra Mansa – “tamed snake” and Cobrinha – “little snake.”

His ability to transform situations through the use of innovative and acrobatic solutions has established him as a leading figure in Capoeira Angola. His unique teaching methods and charismatic personality have inspired younger practitioners to engage deeply with their art, cultivating a new generation that appreciates both the history and the future of Capoeira. The video captures his passion and dedication, allowing viewers to witness firsthand the artistry and dedication that he brings to his practice.

Thank you for exploring Capoeira Angola, a cultural expression that blends martial arts, dance, music, and acrobatics. For more information on its history and techniques, please check the Menu of this website. Stay tuned for videos that provide further insights into its practices, traditions, and community.

Welcome to MALICIA AS A GAME OF POWER, a thought-provoking blog series focused on the intricate art of strategy in human interactions. It delves deep into various facets of effective communication, exploring how the nuances of language and non-verbal cues shape our conversations and connections. The series covers essential skills for conflict resolution, equipping you with the techniques needed to navigate through disputes and disagreements with poise and confidence. Furthermore, it offers invaluable negotiation techniques that can empower you in both personal and professional settings, ensuring you advocate successfully for your interests while considering the perspectives of others. The analysis of manipulation tactics is presented with ethical considerations in mind, aiming to enhance your understanding of influence without compromising integrity. In addition, the importance of leadership skills is emphasized, highlighting how effective leaders inspire and motivate their teams to achieve common goals. Equally vital is a focus on personal branding and online reputation management, providing you with strategic tools to build and sustain a positive public image in today’s digital world. Engaging with this rich content equips you with profound insights and practical strategies to achieve success and foster meaningful relationships while adeptly asserting your influence amidst complex power dynamics in both social and professional arenas.

In this installment, we will explore the 24th law of power in the book, the 48 laws of power by Robert Greene. You can buy a copy by clicking HERE.

The 24th law of power: Play the perfect courtier

The 24th law of power: Play the perfect courtier, which emphasizes the importance of mastering the art of subtlety and grace in social interactions. A skilled courtier navigates the intricate web of politics and power dynamics, understanding that success often lies in the ability to charm, flatter, and influence those in higher positions.

This law teaches that one must be adaptable, able to navigate through the complexities of life with grace and skill, adept at reading situations and people, and always attuned to the needs and desires of others. Embracing flexibility allows for seamless interaction in various environments, fostering deeper connections and enhancing one’s ability to respond appropriately to changing circumstances. The awareness of those around us not only aids in effective communication but also cultivates empathy, leading to more meaningful relationships and a harmonious coexistence. Being open to adjustments in approach encourages growth and resilience, enabling individuals to thrive in both personal and professional spheres.

By embodying elegance and discretion, the perfect courtier can gain the favor of important figures while simultaneously advancing their own ambitions and goals. In essence, this law serves as a comprehensive guide to becoming a sophisticated player in the arena of power, where subtlety is often more effective than direct confrontation. The ability to navigate complex social dynamics with grace not only enhances one’s reputation but also creates opportunities for influence and strategic alliances. In this intricate dance of diplomacy, a courtier must master the art of observation, understanding the motivations and desires of others, and using that knowledge to position themselves advantageously. Through charm and tact, they can sway opinions and craft narratives that align with their aspirations, all while maintaining an air of mystery and intrigue. Ultimately, the perfect courtier understands that true power lies not in overt displays of strength, but in the quiet ability to shape the currents of power from behind the scenes.

The 24th Law of Power: Through the Eyes of an Angoleiro

The 24th Law of Power, often interpreted as “Play the perfect courtier,” or “Be the perfect instrument,” takes on a profoundly layered and practical meaning when filtered through the philosophy and practice of Capoeira Angola, particularly from the perspective of an Angoleiro (a practitioner of Capoeira Angola).

In the world of the court, this law demands the artful assimilation of the environment, the mastery of self-control, and the ability to serve the powerful while simultaneously cultivating one’s own indispensable position. The courtier must be a mirror, reflecting the needs and desires of their patron without losing sight of their own long-term objectives.

For the Angoleiro, the roda (the circle where Capoeira is played) becomes the metaphorical court, and the Mestre (master) or the rhythm of the game itself serves as the powerful force to be navigated. The Law is internalized as: “Enter the Roda and embody the perfect harmony of adaptation, tradition, and self-preservation.”

Assimilation and Adaptation (O Jogo de Dentro – The Inner Game):

The courtier studies the hierarchy, the moods, and the unspoken rules of the court. Similarly, the Angoleiro entering the roda must immediately absorb the rhythm (toque), the energy, and the style of the players before them. This is the ultimate form of assimilation. They do not immediately impose their will but rather listen with their body—a deep, observant listening that precedes movement. The perfect Angoleiro is a chameleon, shifting their energy from the quick, aggressive thrust of a São Bento Grande to the slow, deceptive fluidity of an Angola rhythm, all while maintaining their core identity and principles. Their power lies not in brute strength, but in their perfect synchronization with the game’s flow.

The Art of Indispensability (The Role of the Ginga):

A successful courtier makes themselves invaluable without ever appearing to challenge the authority above them. In Capoeira Angola, the ginga—the foundational swaying movement—is the courtier’s uniform, the constant, shifting presence. It is both defensive and offensive, a perpetual state of readiness. The Angoleiro doesn’t try to win a fight; they strive to play the game better than anyone else, making their presence essential to the quality and depth of the roda. By preserving the tradition, respecting the Mestre, and executing movements with malícia (malice, or tricky cleverness), they become the perfect instrument for demonstrating the art’s essence. Their ability to serve the game’s tradition—to be the living embodiment of its history—is what makes them indispensable.

Self-Control and Calculated Subtlety (Contrariação):

The courtier never shows their hand, never lets their ambition be visible, and controls their emotions rigorously. The Angoleiro practices this through contrariação—the art of moving against the apparent intent, making the opponent believe they are weak, tired, or predictable. Every defensive move (esquiva) is a subtle setup for an attack. The slow, low game is a masterclass in emotional and physical control, hiding power in plain sight. They serve the roda by maintaining its dignity, never descending into uncontrolled aggression, and thus, demonstrating the ultimate power of discipline and intellectual superiority over raw force.

So, what is Capoeira’s Secret to Strong Legs?

I found this gem from YouTuber Tom Mandingeuiro Polonsky, where he shows some incredible drills from Capoeira to develop strong legs, and I just had to post it for you guys. The video not only demonstrates a series of effective exercises but also highlights the importance of leg strength in improving overall performance in Capoeira. As you follow along, you’ll learn how these drills can enhance your agility, balance, and coordination, all of which are essential for mastering the flowing movements of this beautiful martial art. Tom provides clear instructions and helpful tips, making it easy for both beginners and seasoned practitioners to incorporate these techniques into their training routines. It’s definitely worth a watch if you’re looking to take your skills to the next level!

Capoeira is renowned not only for its cultural richness but also for its physical demands. This vibrant practice requires practitioners, known as capoeiristas, to engage in a variety of movements that develop agility, strength, and flexibility in the legs. The intricate kicks, swift dodges, and fluid transitions play a crucial role in building leg muscles, as they work to enhance balance and coordination.

Additionally, the rhythmic nature of the movements helps improve endurance, making the legs stronger and more resilient over time. Integrating these dynamic exercises into their training regimes, capoeiristas discover that the secret to strong legs lies in the combination of fun, athleticism, and cultural expression inherent in Capoeira. This unique blend ensures that participants not only achieve strength but also enjoy a fulfilling and engaging workout experience. As they flow through intricate kicks, graceful spins, and lively footwork, practitioners become increasingly attuned to their bodies, developing not only physical stability but also mental agility.

With each session, they learn to appreciate the way Capoeira connects them to a rich cultural heritage, fostering a sense of community and belonging that enhances their motivation. The social aspect of training alongside fellow capoeiristas further amplifies the joy of exercise, turning every practice into a celebration of movement, skill, and the vibrant traditions that underpin this martial art form.

ANYBODY can play capoeira.

ANYBODY.

ANYBODY.

ANYBODY.

DO YOU UNDERSTAND?

Numerous videos of Capoeira Angola capture its vibrant culture, history, and unique techniques. Each clip highlights the blend of music, movement, and community, showcasing intricate footwork and acrobatics set to the rhythms of traditional instruments like the berimbau. Performers in white attire exemplify the spirit of Capoeira, creating a celebration of unity and resistance. These recordings also reveal various styles and include insights from masters and practitioners, enhancing the understanding of this Brazilian heritage.

In Today’s installment, we examine this short video of a roda presided over by the esteemed MESTRE CURIO.

Now you might be wondering why Mestre Curio walked out of the roda while they were playing. Well, as you can see, the title of the video is “Eles comecaram a jogar durante a louvacao”, which means, “They started to play during the louvacao”. This unusual occurrence can spark curiosity about the rituals and practices that govern Capoeira. If you look on “The SOUL of Capoeira” PAGE, you’ll see that in a traditional Capoeira Angola roda, the sequence is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the art form. It begins with a LADAINHA, which is a song that sets the tone and establishes a spiritual connection among the participants. After this comes the LOUVACAO, a moment of reverence and praise, further enriching the atmosphere. Only THEN do the CORRIDOS begin, marking the transition into the more dynamic and engaging aspect of capoeira. It is during these corridos that the capoeiristas start playing, but this often only occurs after the person leading the roda has given his/her explicit permission. This structured sequence is vital; it preserves the cultural significance and enhances the communal experience.

Observe.

So when those capoeiristas started playing during the louvacao, that was a big NO NO, a violation of one of the most fundamental parts of the traditional game. This disruption not only distracted the participants but also undermined the spiritual significance of the louvacao, which serves as a sacred moment of reflection and connection to the history of Capoeira.

Mestre Curio’s exit was a direct response to this breach in etiquette, reminding us how deeply rooted customs are in the practice of Capoeira Angola, and his desire to uphold them. His withdrawal underscored the importance of respecting the rituals that bind the community together, highlighting that true mastery in Capoeira is not just about physical skill but also about understanding and honoring the profound cultural context behind every movement and sound. Such adherence to tradition ensures the preservation of the art form, allowing it to thrive for future generations.

And here he is in a Jogo.

This one happens to be my favorite video, because it’s one of the best examples of how with cleverness and his mastery of Malicia, Mestre Curio could outsmart and win over his younger and stronger partner, the esteemed Mestre Manoel, another very skilled mestre in his own right. In this captivating display, the combination of strategy and experience showcases the essence of their unique partnership, illustrating that raw strength does not always equate to victory.

Mestre Curio’s ability to anticipate his opponent’s moves and react with precision highlights the power of intellect in physical confrontations, while Mestre Manoel, despite his vigor, learns the importance of adapting and evolving his techniques. Together, they create a compelling narrative that not only entertains but also teaches valuable lessons about respect, humility, and the intricate dance of competition.

Thank you for reading this exploration of this beautiful art of Capoeira Angola, a rich cultural expression that combines elements of martial arts, dance, music, and acrobatics, showcasing the harmony of movement and rhythm. If you want to know more about its history, techniques, and various forms, please explore the Menu of this website, where you’ll find a wealth of resources and information. Additionally, stay tuned for more videos of this captivating art, which will offer deeper insights into its practices, traditions, and vibrant community, helping you appreciate the full essence of Capoeira Angola even more.

Welcome to MALICIA AS A GAME OF POWER, a blog series focused on the art of strategy in human interactions. It covers effective communication, conflict resolution, negotiation techniques, manipulation tactics, and leadership skills. Additionally, it highlights the importance of personal branding and online reputation management, providing tools for navigating power dynamics in social and professional settings. Engaging with this content equips you with insights to achieve success and foster meaningful relationships while asserting your influence.

In this installment, we will explore the 23rd law of power in the book, the 48 laws of power by Robert Greene. You can buy a copy by clicking HERE.

The 23rd law of power:”Concentrate your forces.”

The 23rd law of power, often referred to as “Concentrate your forces,” emphasizes the importance of focusing your resources, energy, and efforts on a singular goal or objective rather than spreading yourself too thin. By harnessing the full extent of your capabilities and concentrating your forces, you can achieve greater impact and effectiveness in your pursuits.

This law teaches that in the realms of influence and competition, it is better to concentrate your strength against a single adversary than to dilute your energies across multiple fronts. A focused approach not only enhances your chances of success but also allows you to build momentum, creating a sense of undeniable power that can intimidate your opponents and inspire your allies. By narrowing your focus, you can develop deeper strategies and tactics that are tailored to effectively combat your chosen adversary, leading to greater efficiency and impact.

Moreover, the concentration of resources and efforts increases your visibility and reputation in the area of your engagement, forming a psychological advantage that can sway neutral parties to your side and deter potential challengers from engaging at all. Therefore, recognizing where to direct your efforts, carefully weighing your options, and wisely selecting your battles becomes crucial in the quest for dominance and success in any endeavor, especially in competitive environments where clarity of purpose and steadfastness can distinguish the victor from the vanquished.

The specific law referenced is likely Law 23: “Concentrate Your Forces,” which, in a traditional strategic sense, means focusing all your energy, resources, and momentum on a single, vital objective. Spreading yourself thin guarantees mediocrity and defeat.

The Angoleiro’s Interpretation

For the Angoleiro, “Concentrating Your Forces” takes on several layered meanings:

1. Concentration of Malícia (Cunning): The Angoleiro does not rely on continuous, high-energy attacks. Instead, they conserve physical energy, moving slowly, provocatively, and close to the ground (the principle of ficar na manha). The “concentration” is in the mental effort, the intense focus on reading the opponent’s intentions, their weight shifts, their breath, and their character. All mental force is concentrated into a single, perfectly timed golpe (blow) or rasteira (sweep) that capitalizes on a tiny, self-created opening. The power is concentrated not in the duration of the conflict, but in the precision of the climax.
2. Concentration on the Jogo (The Game/Ritual): The true force of Capoeira Angola is the roda (the circle) and the ritual of the game. The Angoleiro concentrates their force not just on the opponent, but on the entire environment: the rhythm of the berimbau (musical bow), the call-and-response of the songs, and the energy of the participants. A great Angoleiro harnesses the momentum of the roda itself, using the collective energy as a concentrated force multiplier for their personal expression and strategic dominance. They concentrate their effort on upholding the tradition, which, paradoxically, gives them more power within that tradition.
3. Concentration in Tradição (Tradition): The Angoleiro concentrates their entire practice on the preservation of the art’s historical roots, techniques, and philosophy passed down by masters like Mestre Pastinha. This focused, unwavering adherence to tradition is their greatest strategic advantage. While other arts might chase new techniques, the Angoleiro’s concentrated force lies in the depth of their foundation, making their simple, fundamental movements exponentially more effective and deceitful. The “force” is the weight of history and lineage behind every movement.

In summary, the 23rd Law, “Concentrate Your Forces,” translates for the Angoleiro into the art of strategic patience, mental intensity, and the focused application of cunning to deliver a decisive, high-impact action from a position of conserved energy and deep cultural rootedness.

Every Friday, PROFESSOR BLACK TRUTH presents “The Friday Crime Report,” a thought-provoking and insightful program that delves deeply into the myriad challenges the black community faces in today’s society. The show highlights critical issues such as systemic racism, which pervades various institutions, economic inequality that perpetuates cycles of poverty, and the pervasive problem of police brutality that continues to endanger lives and erode trust between law enforcement and the community.

Through comprehensive research and passionate discussions, the reports aim not only to raise awareness but also to foster meaningful dialogue among viewers from all walks of life. They promote understanding by addressing common misconceptions and providing historical context, encouraging community action that advocates for a more equitable future. By empowering individuals with knowledge and tools, these reports inspire viewers to become advocates for justice and equality, reinforcing the fabric of solidarity and hope within the community while mobilizing collective efforts to combat oppression and create lasting change.

In Today’s installment…

This week, a black 16-year-old in New York was brutally beaten by a white teenage gang in a shocking display of racially motivated violence that has raised serious concerns about safety and justice in our communities. In the aftermath of this heinous act, the response from the white media was alarmingly tepid, giving the incident little coverage and failing to highlight the underlying issues of systemic racism and violence that continue to plague society.

Notably, even the New York Times, an esteemed publication known for its journalistic integrity, minimized the severity of this brutal attack, choosing instead to focus on less significant narratives that detracted from the urgent conversations we need to have around race and violence in our society. This lack of adequate media attention not only serves to further marginalize victims but also perpetuates a culture of silence and inaction regarding these critical issues.

By diverting focus away from such vital topics, the media inadvertently prevents necessary dialogue, leaving many individuals feeling unheard and powerless in the face of systemic injustices. This lack of coverage not only silences marginalized voices but also perpetuates a cycle of misunderstanding and indifference among the broader public. It is imperative that we challenge these narratives and the prevailing assumptions that accompany them, demanding a more comprehensive examination of the multifaceted factors contributing to violence, such as socioeconomic disparities, historical traumas, and societal apathy.

Additionally, fostering a more compassionate understanding of those affected by these issues—recognizing their humanity and the complexities of their experiences—becomes crucial. By doing so, we can inspire meaningful change, engage in transformative conversations, and foster healing within our communities, ultimately paving the way for a more just and equitable society.

Shout out to The Professor for his engaging video on thought-provoking topics that encourage critical thinking and discussions. His unique ability to present complex ideas in an accessible format captivates audiences and fosters intellectual curiosity. Check out his YouTube channel HERE to connect with a community passionate about knowledge and black issues, broadening your perspective through enlightening conversations that challenge your assumptions and inspire deeper reflections.

Welcome to MARTIAL ARTS THEATER, a dynamic hub for martial arts enthusiasts offering expert interviews, instructional videos, and community events for all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert looking to improve, our platform provides essential insights to enhance your skills. Connect with like-minded individuals, explore the cultural significance of martial arts, and benefit from workshops and events in a supportive environment that values the artistry and discipline of these ancient practices.

In Today’s installment, I share with you, this beautiful gem of a documentary.

This documentary focuses on the DOG BROTHERS, a group started in southern California. In 1988, Marc Denny and 10 other martial arts enthusiasts formed the loose tribe they called the Dog Brothers, a name that would soon resonate throughout the martial arts community. Fueled by their shared passion for martial arts and an intense desire to challenge themselves, they were all drawn to an obscure form of the combat arts that originated during times of tribal warfare in the Philippines known as KALI, ARNIS, and ESCRIMA.

This unique style emphasized not just the physical aspect of fighting but also the deep-rooted traditions and philosophies that accompanied it, fostering a profound sense of camaraderie and respect among its practitioners. Through rigorous training sessions and matches, the Dog Brothers not only honed their skills in reality-based stick fighting, but through these stickfights also formed lasting bonds that transcended the mere act of combat, creating a vibrant community rich in shared experiences and mutual growth. As they engaged in these intense yet respectful exchanges, each practitioner brought their individual backgrounds and perspectives, contributing to a collective understanding that celebrated the art of combat as both a martial discipline and a profound cultural expression.

This unique combination of physical skill and emotional connection ignited a passion and dedication that resonated deeply within the participants, creating a movement that not only honored martial prowess but also emphasized the significance of brotherhood and unity among warriors. Their journey would go on to inspire countless others who were seeking an authentic and meaningful connection to the martial arts, inviting them to not just learn techniques, but to embrace the ethos that champions respect, discipline, and lifelong friendship.

If you want to watch more episode of WHY WE FIGHT, you can find them streaming on HULU.

Welcome to the Survivor Series, where we explore Urban and Wilderness Survival in depth, focusing on essential skills, practical tips, and comprehensive strategies to prepare for unexpected challenges in both cities and nature. This series will cover a diverse range of topics including shelter-building techniques that can be adapted to various environments, food sourcing methods that emphasize foraging, fishing, and hunting as well as urban alternatives like sharing economy solutions. We will also delve into self-defense techniques tailored to different scenarios, offering insights into both physical and psychological aspects of personal safety. Furthermore, we emphasize the importance of mental resilience and situational awareness, helping you develop a mindset that fosters adaptability and resourcefulness in any survival situation. Join us on this journey to enhance your survival skills and empower yourself in the face of adversity.

In Today’s Installment, I type about a fundamental aspect of survival, situational awareness, and how to develop it.

Situational awareness and how to develop it are essential skills that can vastly improve one’s ability to navigate complex environments effectively. This is a crucial aspect of Urban Survival, as being aware of your surroundings allows you to identify potential threats and opportunities quickly. Developing situational awareness involves honing your observational skills, understanding the dynamics of the space around you, and being mindful of changes in your environment. This means not only focusing on the immediate area but also recognizing patterns of behavior in others and interpreting non-verbal cues. Additionally, it is important to consider the psychological aspects of how stress and distraction can impair your situational awareness; therefore, techniques such as mindfulness and structured observation can lead to greater clarity.

Furthermore, it is beneficial to practice routinely by engaging in activities that challenge your perception, like walking through busy areas and mentally noting various details. By mastering these techniques, you will reinforce your instinctual responses, enabling you to respond more effectively to sudden changes or emerging threats. Ultimately, cultivating situational awareness is not merely about being vigilant; it is about developing a deeper understanding of the intricate interplay between yourself, others, and the environment around you.

By practicing techniques such as scanning your surroundings, noting unusual behavior, and reflecting on your emotional responses, you can significantly enhance your capacity to react appropriately in challenging situations. This proactive approach not only increases personal safety but also fosters a deeper connection to the urban landscape and the communities within it. Furthermore, becoming more attuned to your environment allows you to better identify potential threats or opportunities, enabling you to navigate various scenarios with greater confidence.

Cultivating this awareness helps to create a sense of belonging, as you begin to understand the nuances of local culture and dynamics. By actively participating in community events, exploring local traditions, and engaging with residents, you deepen your connection to the environment around you. In time, consistently engaging in these practices can transform your perspective, making you not just a passive observer but an active participant in the vibrant tapestry of urban life. You will find yourself forging friendships, sharing stories, and discovering hidden gems within the city that you might have overlooked before, enriching your experience and fostering a greater appreciation for the diversity and complexity of urban existence. This journey towards deeper awareness not only enhances your own life but also contributes positively to the community, as you become a vital part of its ongoing narrative.