Before you Begin - What to Expect

FlowState Systema is a personal movement practice inspired by the Russian martial art Systema. While traditional Systema was developed as a survival martial art, FlowState Systema adapts these principles to focus on breath, movement, and relaxation. This wellness-based practice emphasizes natural movements, self-awareness, and embodied presence. Its purpose is to cultivate a calm, centered state of mind, freeing you from pride, tension, and fear so you can move more easily and mindfully in all areas of life.

History and Philosophy of Systema

History:

Below is a general overview of Systema’s history and philosophy, as traditionally understood, to provide context for the FlowState Systema approach.

Systema, or “The System,” is a Russian martial art with deep historical roots dating back to the 10th century.

Originally developed by Russian warriors to protect their homeland, Systema was designed to be practical, adaptive, and effective in various combat situations.

Unlike many traditional martial arts, Systema does not rely on rigid techniques or forms. Instead, it emphasizes natural movement, relaxation, and adaptability.

Philosophy:

Systema’s philosophy is grounded in the synergy of three core components: combat skill, strong spirit, and a healthy body. The aim is to develop a true warrior who embodies physical prowess, mental clarity, and spiritual depth.

Core Principals

  1. Relaxation and Tension Release
  • The body must be free of tension to move effortlessly and efficiently. Systema teaches practitioners to release fear and tension, allowing for fluid and explosive movements.
  1. Mental Calm and Focus
  • The spirit, or psychological state, must be calm and clear. Systema encourages a mindset free from anger, irritation, fear, self-pity, delusion, and pride. Practitioners learn to maintain focus and humility, even under pressure.
  1. Natural Movement and Efficiency
  • Systema movements are powerful, precise, and economical. The training emphasizes spontaneous and diverse responses, making it highly adaptive to any situation.
  1. Non-Destructive Training
  • A key principle of Systema is non-destruction. Training aims to build and strengthen the body and psyche without causing harm. This principle extends to training partners, ensuring mutual growth and safety.
  1. Self-Knowledge and Humility
  • Known as “poznai sebia” or “know yourself,” Systema promotes deep self-awareness. Training reveals personal limitations and fosters true strength through humility and clarity of purpose.

Traditional Systema is not just a martial art; it is a comprehensive approach to life. It enhances the function of all physiological systems and integrates physical, psychological, and spiritual development.

By training in FlowState Systema, practitioners learn to navigate life’s challenges with calmness, resilience, and a deeper understanding of themselves.

About The Instructor

Suriel has been a dedicated practitioner of Systema since 2012. FlowState Systema is his own personal variation, combining principles of Systema with a focus on presence, embodied awareness, and adaptive movement.

Suriel’s philosophy revolves around the holistic integration of Systema into daily life, emphasizing the importance of relaxation, mental clarity, humility, and spiritual connection. FlowState Systema is a personal variation of Systema, designed to integrate principles of movement and breathwork into a wellness-focused practice.

Through his teaching, Suriel aims to help students release physical tension, maintain mental focus, and foster a deep connection to their inner selves. By blending martial training with personal development, Suriel’s approach to Flow State Systema offers a path to living with more presence while learning adaptive skills applicable to both martial contexts and everyday life.

Scroll to Top