“THE TAO” of Charles Williams

“Capoeira Is Everything the mouth eats.” – Mestre Pastinha

Yes, the title is clickbait… sort of. This page is what I like to call a “Summary” of all I learned from him about Capoeira Angola, and how I see this world. In the 10 + Year’s that I’ve been his student, he has had a tremendous impact on my life, and now I want to share some of what I learned from him with y’all.

So to start with, the question is… Who is Charles Williams? Well, I’ll let him tell you who he is.

Now, In case you don’t like watching Youtube videos…

Charles Williams is a highly accomplished professional with a diverse and extensive background spanning various fields, including case management, coaching, counseling, and therapeutic practices. His expertise extends to program facilitation for a wide array of clients, including individuals, corporations, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.

His academic journey is marked by a strong foundation in both the humanities and psychology. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in English and Communications from Howard University, providing him with exceptional communication and analytical skills. Furthering his education, he obtained a Master’s degree in Spiritual Psychology from the University of Santa Monica, demonstrating his commitment to understanding the deeper aspects of human experience and well-being. Currently, he is a PhD candidate in Psychology at Pacifica Graduate Institute, underscoring his dedication to advanced psychological research and practice.

Mr. Williams is a compassionate and effective service provider, dedicated to assisting and serving people from diverse backgrounds and across all age groups. His professional experience includes over 15 years as a counselor, where he has undoubtedly guided countless individuals through challenging life circumstances. Additionally, he has dedicated over 10 years to working as a Life Coach and Specialist with developmentally disabled adults, demonstrating his patience, empathy, and ability to foster growth and independence in vulnerable populations.

His commitment to community service is evident in his past roles, such as a Site Coordinator and Supervisor for the Summer Night Lights program, an initiative sponsored by the LA Mayor’s Office aimed at promoting safe and engaging activities for youth. He has also served as a counselor for Boys Town, a renowned organization dedicated to caring for children and families. His international experience includes traveling to Salvador da Bahia, Brazil, where he worked with the non-profit Levantamos. In this role, he spearheaded an outreach effort focused on aiding university students in their professional development, showcasing his global perspective and dedication to empowering future generations.

Beyond his direct service roles, Mr. Williams possesses a noteworthy background as a Producer for several high-profile entities. His exceptional talent and success in developing compelling content have been recognized with two consecutive Emmy Awards, a testament to his creativity, strategic thinking, and ability to deliver outstanding results.

On a personal level, Charles Williams is known for his unwavering dedication, infectious enthusiasm, and profound compassion. He derives immense satisfaction from witnessing individuals grow, achieve their full potential, and lead fulfilling lives. This personal philosophy seamlessly integrates into his teaching of Capoeira Angola, where he not only imparts the physical aspects of the art form but also mentors his students to cultivate discipline, self-awareness, and a zest for life.

He is also the founder of Solsinmotion.

Solsinmotion is a holistic healing, life coaching, and personal development service, also known for organizing Capoeira events and community initiatives, including toy and food drives in the Los Angeles area. The service offers holistic counseling and personal development coaching, while also fostering a sense of community through various events focused on Brazilian culture and social support. 

At the heart of Charles’s philosophy and the essence of Solsinmotion lies the profound significance of Capoeira. For Charles, the moment he was introduced to this Afro-Brazilian art form was a transformative turning point from which there was no return. He unequivocally credits Capoeira for being the catalyst that helped him revolutionize his life on all levels—mind, body, and soul.

As the esteemed founder and instructor of the Solsinmotion Capoeira Angola Collective, Charles brings a unique and deeply holistic approach to the practice. His teaching methodology emphasizes the integral connection between the mind, body, and soul, recognizing Capoeira Angola not merely as a physical discipline but as a powerful Afro-Brazilian healing art. This intricate art form seamlessly weaves together the expressive movements of dancing, the strategic techniques of self-defense, the rhythmic pulse of music, and the profound depth of spirituality.

Charles’s expertise and compassionate teaching style make him adept at instructing individuals of all ages and skill levels, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all who seek to learn and grow. His dedication and passion have led him to lead numerous workshops, captivating demonstrations, and enriching classes, all while consistently producing compelling and inspiring shows that showcase the beauty and power of Capoeira Angola. Through Solsinmotion, Charles Williams continues to inspire and empower individuals, nurturing a vibrant community through the transformative power of Capoeira and a steadfast commitment to holistic well-being.

So, let’s get to the “Nitty-Gritty” of what this page is about, and that is what I learned from my 12 years (as of this writing) training with him.

Now before I go any further, let me stress to you that what I’m about to share with you is MY INTERPRETATION of his teachings. Someone else might get something else from Charles’ teachings, and that’s fine. It’s important to understand that each individual’s perspective is shaped by their unique experiences and insights. Therefore, what resonates with me may differ significantly from what others perceive. I encourage you to keep your own interpretations in mind as you absorb these ideas, as they can lead to a richer understanding and appreciation of Charles’ work. We all bring our own backgrounds, beliefs, and contexts into our learning, which can illuminate various aspects of the teachings that might not be immediately apparent. So, let’s explore this together with an open mind and heart, embracing the diversity of thoughts that Charles’ work inspires.

I’ll start a very important thing that I learned from him, and that is Capoeira Angola’s potential to make this world a better place to live.

Let me explain.

Capoeira Angola, as a rich cultural tradition originating from Africa, embodies principles that challenge systemic inequalities and foster community solidarity. Through its combination of martial arts, music, and dance, Capoeira promotes inclusivity and empowers individuals, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds, to express themselves freely. This form of expression becomes a powerful tool for social change, encouraging participants to engage in dialogues about justice, identity, and culture. By participating in Capoeira, individuals not only learn physical skills but also gain a sense of belonging and purpose, driving them to take part in collective efforts aimed at improving societal conditions. Ultimately, Capoeira Angola serves as a vibrant symbol of resistance and resilience, reminding us that through unity and creativity, we can work towards a more equitable world, embracing diversity while actively combating social injustices.Capoeira Angola offers a compelling framework for challenging systemic inequalities and cultivating robust community solidarity.

More than just a martial art, Capoeira Angola is a holistic practice that intricately weaves together elements of self-defense, music, and dance. This powerful synergy creates an environment that actively promotes inclusivity and fosters individual empowerment, particularly for those from marginalized backgrounds who have historically been silenced or overlooked.

Through its unique blend of expressive movement and rhythmic storytelling, Capoeira provides a vital outlet for individuals to articulate their experiences, identities, and perspectives freely. This uninhibited form of expression transforms into a potent instrument for social change, encouraging participants to engage in meaningful and often challenging dialogues about critical societal issues such as justice, equality, and cultural heritage. The movements themselves, often mimicking the struggles and triumphs of historical resistance, become a physical language for exploring these complex themes.

Participation in Capoeira extends far beyond the acquisition of physical skills; it cultivates a profound sense of belonging and purpose. As individuals learn the intricate movements, rhythms, and songs, they become integral members of a supportive community. This collective bond motivates them to contribute actively to broader efforts aimed at improving societal conditions and advocating for a more just world. The shared experience of training, performing, and learning together strengthens interpersonal relationships and instills a sense of collective responsibility.

Ultimately, Capoeira Angola stands as a vibrant and enduring symbol of resistance and resilience. Its continued practice serves as a powerful reminder that through unity, creative expression, and a shared commitment to justice, humanity can collectively strive towards a more equitable and inclusive world. By embracing diversity and actively combating social injustices, Capoeira Angola not only preserves a rich cultural legacy but also inspires ongoing efforts to dismantle oppressive structures and build a society where all individuals can thrive. It is a living testament to the enduring human spirit and the transformative power of art and community.

Okay, that might be more than 1 thing but hey, I love Capoeira Angola, and I love writing about it, which should be evident by the fact that I wrote a whole WEBSITE about it that explores its rich history, philosophy, and diverse techniques. Through this platform, I aim to share my passion with others and create a space for fellow enthusiasts to connect and learn. So, below I’m posting some pages and blogs from this website to showcase not just the lessons I’ve learned specifically from Charles but also the deeper insights that this incredible art form offers. Each of these resources reflects the beauty of Capoeira Angola, allowing you to appreciate its cultural significance and the unique movement flow that defines it. So click on the links below, and immerse yourself in the wisdom, the “Tao” if you will, of Charles Williams, and let his teachings inspire your own journey in this captivating world.

to access, just go to the Drop in Menu on this website, or just click on the links below.

This is more of a summary, rather than a list of everything he’s taught me: I’m not dumb enough to post all that. Besides, as of this list, I’ve been learning from Charles Williams for 12 years, a journey that has profoundly shaped my understanding of not only Capoeira Angola but also life itself. 12 years on this journey, and I plan to learn for many more, because there is a lot more to learn from Mr. Williams. His wisdom goes beyond technique; he imparts lessons on discipline, respect, and the cultural richness of our art form.

I’ve had other teachers, each contributing their own unique perspectives, but Mr. Williams is my teacher, my guide, and my main source of inspiration and reference in navigating the way of life known as Capoeira Angola, without having some fancy title.

His passion for the craft ignites a fire within me, encouraging me to push my boundaries and strive for excellence, fostering not just proficiency in movement but a profound connection to my roots and the community that surrounds this vibrant tradition.

Oh, there’s one more thing that I forgot to tell you about Mr. Williams…

He is an amazing poet and spoken word artist, celebrated for his unique ability to blend profound emotions with relatable themes. With a passion for self-expression and a deep understanding of human experiences, he has crafted a compelling book called “Poetic Expressionism,” which not only showcases his artistry but also invites readers to explore their own feelings and thoughts. This collection dives into various aspects of life, love, and the quest for identity, resonating with a wide audience. You can purchase a copy by clicking HERE, and immerse yourself in the beautiful tapestry of words that will inspire and provoke contemplation.

Poetic Expressionism is a distinctive artistic movement that seamlessly intertwines poetic prose with the raw, vibrant energy of urban life, capturing the essence of everyday experiences and transforming them into powerful artistic expressions. Each creation is a singular exploration of the human condition, presented in both tangible and abstract forms, inviting readers to delve deeply into the nuanced layers of existence. Readers are invited on an exhilarating emotional journey, rich with intricate narratives, playful language, profound truths, and deep meaning, all while challenging societal norms and personal perceptions.

Williams masterfully and uniquely articulates his perspectives and sentiments about life and the surrounding world through his poetic lens, weaving together personal anecdotes and universal themes that resonate with a wide audience. At its core, Poetic Expressionism champions authenticity, encouraging individuals to embrace both the triumphs and tribulations of existence, to voice their truths, and to embody the full, dynamic essence of living poetry in motion. By confronting reality with a blend of vulnerability and strength, Williams fosters a sense of community and connection among his readers.

Okay, if THAT doesn’t tell you everything YOU need to know about who Mr. Williams is, I don’t know what will. His impressive credentials, unmatched work ethic, and incredible dedication to his community serve as a testament to his character. From his early days as a volunteer at local shelters to his rise as a prominent figure in the industry, Mr. Williams has always prioritized making a positive impact wherever he goes. His ability to connect with people, combined with his vast knowledge and experience, leaves a lasting impression on everyone he encounters.

Truly, understanding Mr. Williams goes beyond mere words; it’s about recognizing the indelible mark he leaves on the world around him.