Writers' Guidelines

PURPOSE AND MISSION

Articles should refer to our main topic of the relationship between Asian martial arts and healing practices and processes. Specifically, articles should serve to provide a bridge for understanding between the practice of martial arts and healing. Philosophical musings and poetry are welcome.

LENGTH

A feature article is typically between 2,000 and 4,000 words in length. A review or news report can vary in size but is usually concise (400-1,000 words). Longer articles are welcome, too.

ETHICS OF WRITING

Articles should not criticize a particular individual for his/her viewpoint or practice techniques. Likewise, saying that one style of practice is the only valid one or the best is the same as saying everyone else is wrong. We believe an idea or concept should stand on its own without having to make comparisons that by implication will denigrate other persons, schools, practices, or modalities. If any comparisons are made, please refer to factual data, not individual beliefs or assumptions. Give credit to your sources with footnotes and bibliographies.

The Journal is not a vehicle for promoting individuals, schools, practices, etc. We realize that many persons would like to be featured for promotional reasons, so we will consider interviews and personal articles on those individuals who have achieved a well-known status in the community, or those who have made significant contributions that deserve acknowledgment. We will list links to individuals, organizations, and schools related to the subject matter of this journal.

SUBMISSION FORMAT

Email queries are preferred. Please include brief bio with contact information. Simultaneous submissions accepted. All articles should be carefully proofread before submitting. We will reply in 4-6 weeks. No phone calls, please. If on paper, manuscripts should be submitted as copies, not originals. JMAH does not return articles (or accompanying artwork). Articles that are received are considered final copy. We do not accept any revisions to the article once it has been received (such as new information, deletion of erroneous information, or substitution of current information). However, you may resubmit the entire revised article as a new submission. Written, mailed notification is required for cancellation of any article which is under consideration. Submission of articles should be via email. Articles on paper are unacceptable as final modes of submission. Because of translation difficulties, we can only accept articles written in English. If your article is not appropriate for one issue, it may be just right for the next. Once an article has been accepted, a contract will be mailed to you for your signature. At that time, be prepared to submit your article electronically: floppy disc, CD, or via PC-compatible email media.

Last but not least, photographs/artwork are strongly encouraged to substantiate and enhance the written material.

ADVERTISING AND JOURNAL CONTENT

Although an article may run simultaneously with related advertising, JMAH will not publish articles in order to sell advertising. A company may run an advertisement because the article is going to appear; never the reverse. All editorial is independent of sales, as are book, CD, and tape reviews. In the case of book, CD, and/or tape reviews, When JMAH determines that a product will be reviewed, the review is published, good or bad. Do not submit anything for review that you do not want reviewed. Reviewers, as all writers contributing to this journal, are independent and uncompensated monetarily.

OUR AUDIENCE

Martial artists who desire to explore the healing aspects of their traditions as well as students and practitioners of the Asian healing arts and scholars of this knowledge will find this journal of interest. Our audience ranges from highly skilled practitioners, scholars, healthcare professionals, and school libraries to individuals who are seeing JMAH for the very first time. We will consider poems, philosophical or technical articles, those involving case studies as well as articles that give an overview or simplify complex concepts.

EDITING

JMAH reserves the right to edit all copy and make decisions regarding selection of artwork and photos. We realize that some of our writers may not be as proficient at English grammar as others, or that English may not be their native language. However, a person who practices and believes in what they write about has a viewpoint and dedication that is deserving of consideration. Our Journal exists for the purpose of providing information that will stimulate thought. We strive to provide accurate information in a consistent and readable format. If major edits are performed that may change the author�s meaning, a copy of the revised article will be sent for approval.

Submit all manuscripts and correspondence to:

Journal of Martial Arts & Healing
26-B E. Park Drive
Athens, Ohio 45701

Or by e-mail: Frances Gander