Heian Shodan

Heian Shodan translates as, "Peaceful mind, first level." and is the first of the series of five Heian kata. It teaches the karateka to ground himself in strong stances. Thus it represents Earth. It is one of the most basic kata and is usually the first kata a karateka learns.
There is an emphasis on basic low blocks/strikes and stepping punch, moving through the center and building strong and low front stances, hammer fist technique and face blocks/strikes, including transitionally timed blocks and strikes, back stance knife hand block/strike, proper basic breathing and application of kiai. Hip rotation, vibration, shifting/thrusting, reconnection.