Shotokan training is usually divided into three parts: kihon (basics), kata (forms or patterns of moves), and kumite (sparring).
Encoding
Kata is often described as a set sequence of karate moves organised into a pre-arranged or choreographed fight against imaginary opponents. In Shotokan, the historical purpose of kata was to turn human "dance" into a biological data storage system; the kata contain encoded information about the applications of basic techniques that reveal themselves gradually as the student progresses. This was less cumbersome than attempting to write everything down and has subsequently bestowed an air of mystery on the possible secrets that have been hidden in kata.
Kata names
Heian can be taken to mean "basic". The first 5 kata the shotokan student must study are the Heian kata: Heian Shodan, Heian Nidan, Heian Sandan, Heian Yondan and Heian Godan, with Heian Shodan being the simplest (first step of basic) and Heian Godan being the most advanced (fifth step of basic).
Philosophy
When developing his karate, Funakoshi laid out the Twenty Precepts of Karate, which are based heavily on Bushido and Zen, and within which lie the philosophy of Shotokan. It was Funakoshi's belief that through karate practice and observation of these twenty principles, the practioner, or karateka, would improve their person, by uniting shin (mind), gi (technique) and tai (body). There are strong parallels here between this and the swordsman Myamoto Musashi's Gorin No Sho, (A Book of Five Rings). Musashi's book is divided into 5 chapters, each of which is named after an element. There is a speculation by some that the first 5 Shotokan kata also have a basis in the five elements of ancient Japanese belief.
Heian Shodan is very rooted to the ground and is considered by some to be the Earth kata, providing a solid basis on which to grow one's practice. The picture shows oi-tsuki (stepping punch) which features strongly in the first Heian kata.
The Cache
Please do not attempt to approach the cache if you are in any way unsure of your ability on this terrain! Consider your approach carefully. The location itself is not safe for young children because of the elevation changes and the stream. However, they could accompany an adult most of the way.
The cache is a small container hidden in a busy part of the Phoenix Park, so please exercise care when retrieving and replacing this cache to prevent it from being muggled; you may well have an audience. Please replace it exactly as you find it. Although this is a straightforward hide, you may find that your GPSr signal is erratic because of the trees and that your smartphone signal is similarly poor, hence the rating.
Pause
If you have time, please pause at the location and use your senses to experience EARTH. Consider the importance of being properly rooted to the earth.