The Series: THOMAS CASTRO - Kung Fu Student, Skater

-How did you get into Kung-Fu?

I got into kung-fu from watching old kung-fu films like Drunken Master. It influenced me to join the USA Shaolin Temple at 14 years old. I left the Shaolin Temple and came across a new Sifu (master) who is 80, and teaching me secret ancient techniques.

-Tell us about your routine around kung-fu.

My Sifu is at my house by 7 am most mornings and I train on forms for hours. Hitting and warming up on the wooden dummy that he has me practicing on, I’m doing a lot of exercises that also work out the whole internal muscle system.

-What does that world look like? Anything specific we should know?

Yes! Kung-fu isn't about fighting! It's life! Kung-fu heals and shows us how to work and connect with nature.

-Any exciting personal projects coming up this year?

I just dropped an EP called “Mad Monkey.” I'm going to be releasing a video for “Monet,” which is one of the tracks on the EP.

-What are some other interests you have? Tell us a little about them.

Another passion I have is skateboarding; I started skating right before I joined the Shaolin Temple. Skating is what opened me to transformation and has been the way I move around in the world. The feeling of skating down the street is freeing, and I love it.

-Who is your biggest influence?

My biggest inspiration has to be my mother. She’s a dragon and worked her way up to owning her own business from nothing. Witnessing all of it when growing up gave me my business mentality.

-What is your favourite activity to do with your friends?

My favourite thing to do with friends is to skate. Skateboarding in groups feels amazing; it feels like you own the city. Likes it's your playground.

-What does Ben Sherman mean to you?

To me, Ben Sherman is openness and acceptance.

-What is your favourite piece of Ben Sherman clothing, and why?

My favourite would have to be the signature logo sweater because it's simple but still stands out. A sweater you can wear with or without a jacket.

-How would you describe your personal style, what are key-pieces that you can’t live without?

My personal style has to have flair. I usually wear bellbottoms. I like feeling groovy. I have to have my stones with me, like my jade necklace for protection and good health.

-What is a good mantra or affirmation that you live by?

A good mantra you can recite is Namo Amitabha. Amitabha is a buddha, and when you recite his name, it brings you abundance. In English, it translates to infinite life.