Kamaemail archive, issue eight
Kamaemail
July - August 2001 issue 8 volume 2
kamaemail@budomart.com
Please forward this newsletter to all the people you know in the Bujinkan
(738 members registered today). Kamaemail is FREE and our objective is
to make it a positive link for all the practitioners of Budo Taijutsu
in the world. Kamaemail is sent as often as we can. Did you receive this
issue of Kamaemail from a friend? subscribe to Kamaemail at kamaemailsubscribe@budomart.com
; If you do not wish to receive Kamaemail anymore send an email to kamaemailunsubscribe@budomart.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The new approach for Gyokko Ryû follows the Ten Ryaku, Chi Ryaku, Jin
Ryaku. " Ryaku " means " transmission ". It gives a deeper understanding
of what we have to find into the Gyokko Ryû Kosshijutsu. Hatsumi Sensei
does not refer anymore to Jo Ryaku, Chu Ryaku and Ge Ryaku. By using the
Ten, Chi, Jin system, we enter a new technical dimension where forms are
useless. Since the beginning of the year the Ten Ryaku has been studied
extensively (6 weeks for Koku !). At the end of april we began to study
the Chi Ryaku. Hereafter you will find some texts written by people who
trained in Japan.
Arnaud Cousergue - Editor
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
In this issue:
a.. Kamaemail issue 9
b.. News & Seminars
c.. Gyokko Ryu no Sanpo Hiden by Sean Askew 10th dan
d.. The NEW Gyokko Ryu Kossshijutsu by Arnaud Cousergue 13th dan
e.. The Internet ninja trap by Stephen A. Smith
f.. A few thoughts between Kihon Happo and Yin-yang by Kostas Kanakis
9th dan
g.. Taikai Norway 2002
h.. Videos and Books NEW TITLES!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kamaemail Issue 9
Next issue will be available in september. Send your personal contribution
to:
articlekamae9@budomart.com for articles speaking of anything linked to
our art, to martial arts in general and to Japan or Asia: technical tips,
history of Japan. At the end put your name, Dan grade, country, email
(and website if you have).
seminarkamae9@budomart.com if you organize a seminar. At the end put your
name, Dan grade, country, email (and website).
newskamae9@budomart.com for the news about the Bujinkan in the world (promotions,
trips, etc).
ideaskamae9@budomart.com for any ideas to improve your newsletter.
Kamaemail Poll:
We are thinking of putting Kamaemail directly online on Budomart.com to
avoid sending (and waiting to receive) a big file each month. Please send
an email to emailK@budomart.com if you prefer to receive it by email or
onlineK@budomart.com if you prefer to have it online on the website.
We will not accept any article or information criticizing or attacking
any individuals, whether they are members of the Bujinkan or not. As we
don't want to modify your articles, have someone speaking English correctly
read it before you send it.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
News & Seminars
Send us information about the seminars you organize and news from what
is going on in your area, we will put the information in this section.
Please precise city and country. Try to follow the presentation to save
time.
§ For many years I was hoping there would be one day a directory where
you would find all the members of the Bujinkan. Many times people come
to me during Taikai or in Japan or send an email and I must admit that
even if I recognize faces easily, it is hard to remember the names of
everyone. I am sure many of you encountered the same problem many times.
>From now on you will be able to fill your name and address, put your
picture on a new webfree service offered by Solkan Europe and Budomart.com.
The URL of this service will be http://www.direct-tori.net/ . It is free,
protected by a personal password so that no one can change your profile.
I hope this new tool will help people to communicate more easily in the
future. Direct-Tori is available. Arnaud Cousergue arnaud@budomart.com
§ Madrid Taikai in October 2001 : Jesus Eguia is still accepting new participants
to the Taikai. It is still time to book your particapation. Do not forget
that it will be the only Taikai in Europe for 2001. Book your reservation
now if you do not want to be left at the door! Taikai hosted by Jesús
Eguía, Virgen de Navahonda, 8; 29600 Marbella Malaga; Spain. Reservation
on receipt of 50 % of total. Do not forget to put your name on transfer
or deposit. Last day for registration: NO LIMIT. More info: Tel. (+34)629
284 200 mobil phone (10.00 to 24.00 spanish time) - Tel.(+34)952 866 021
(15.00 to 16.30 / 22.00 to 24.00 spanish time) - Fax.(+34)95 277 33 64
- e-mail. Eguiakbk@teleline.es - http://taikaimadrid.eguiakbk.com/Bienvenido2.htm
§ Arnaud Cousergue directed a Seminar in Lisbon with Goncalo Coelho and
Ricardo Costa. It was a fantastic experience for everyone! You want to
train in Lisbon? Then contact Gonçalo Coelho Rosa: goncalocrosa@clix.pt
§ Seminars en El salvador www.bujinkan-el-salvador.8k.com/seminario.htm
§ We are sorry, the budomart.com website has not been updated since a
long time. It will soon be renewed with a forum and more informations.
AJC
§ The Seminar was a big success. Sveneric was great and he enjoyed the
dojo, the people and New Mexico. We have a whole bunch of good stuff to
practice for a long time to come. Hopefully he will return soon. In the
meantime we will have the tape of the seminar, which will help keep it
alive. The people from out of town were very impressed with the dojo,
thanks to everyone who helped get us in good shape. Lisa, Farrah, Ken,
Cindie, Roger, Janet, Debbie, Robert and Mark got the outside looking
good. The inside sparkled thanks to the efforts of Janet, Farrah, Debbie,
Daryl, John, Tara, Lenny, Robert, Abi, Karen, and Tami. Everyone pitched
in to make our out of town guests feel at home and make the Seminar run
smoothly. A special thanks to Gaby for doing the food and to Tami, Debbie,
Karen, Abi, Lisa, Cheryl and Tara for help in a whole variety of tasks
that made the seminar such an enjoyable event. Our buyu astronaut Bob
Stewart gave everyone a feeling for what it was like to be on the space
shuttle----Domo Arigato Gozaimashita! LETS DO IT AGAIN SOON! . Robert
Mattson: bujinadojo@earthlink.net
§ Just a short note to let everyone know what they missed out on but that
there are still have a couple of chances left if your interested.
Last Monday Greg Alcorn led a training session at Paul DeSilva's dojo
near Hornsby in Sydney. Greg is back in Australia only briefly as he is
getting married to a lovely Japanese lady (we also met her at the dojo)
on Saturday 21st July (I'm sure you will all join me in congratulating
him). He took
time out of his busy schedule (anyone who has ever got married will know
just how busy the week before the wedding is even without having to introduce
all the in-laws) and offered to run some classes (and maybe also because
Nagato Sensei told him he HAD to teach whilst he was back in
Australia).
Anyway, even after only not seeing Greg for 6 months (when I was last
in Japan) it was easy to see how much more he has to offer and how much
time he must be spending training with Nagato Sensei. Greg was aiming
to teach some of the things that they have recently been doing at Nagato
Sensei's dojo.
It was easy to feel the style of Nagato Sensei and to feel just as frustrated
with trying to replicate the techniques as it is when attending Nagato
Sensei's dojo. All in all the people who did attend the class got more
than their money's worth from the training opportunity. It was quite different
from some of the other recent seminars and offered something for everyone
to think about and work on in their personal training.
I was disappointed to hear that some people were saying that Greg was
only doing the seminars as a means of funding his honeymoon. Anyone who
has ever been married will agree that you cant organise and pay for the
honeymoon the week before you go (or after you come back) and anyone who
has run seminars in Australia will tell you that its more for the love
of the art than in making any financial gain (you never get the numbers
which is why we don't have Tai kais in this country). The fact that Hatsumi
Sensei specifically painted some calligraphy for Greg to give to people
in Australia as presents as well as Nagato Sensei telling him to go and
teach should be indication enough that this is training for training's
sake if making specific allowance in his wedding and honeymoon schedule
to teach 3 times isn't enough on its own.
Anyway Greg will be teaching twice more before returning to Japan. The
classes are on Wednesday 1st August at Andrew Macdonald's dojo, Pyrmont
and Thursday 2nd August at Paul DeSilva's dojo, Waitara. If you want more
information please contact him at odachi@hotmail.com or on 0414 861 076
Hope to see you there. Anthony Brien: abrien@optusnet.com.au
§ hey all, if you all have a chance and want to see some of the photos
from the exchange so far, the international office has started posting
them up on the internet, there are only a few. here's the directions:
#1: go to http://www.chukyo-u.ac.jp/ #2: once your here click on the English
Version and go to the International Student Exchange highlight. #3: after
this, click on the "Academic Calendar for International Students" highlight,
and then just look through the links that are highlighted, so far there
aren't that many but more will be posted up later as time goes by.
Hope your all doing well, looking foward to seeing you all again someday.
Michael
§ Daikomyosai will be held this year on December 4th, 5th and 6th.
§ For Australians who teach - dont forget to keep your times and locations
and contact details up to date. The main place that seems to be being
maintained is at: http://bujinkanbrisbane.freeyellow.com/dojolist.html
so please check and update it.
§ Doug Wilson - the honarary ozzie married Yuko last month in Japan. Hatsumi
sensei, Oguri sensei and Noguchi sensei attended.
§ The Law in Australia. I have been trying to get some information from
the MAIA without much success and still have a list of questions to ask
them from people I chatted with at a seminar some time ago. The need to
be properly authroised to teach martial arts is still uncertain in most
of Australia but slowly is becoming required. What is true is that many
venues will not hire to you unless you are "properly authorised". One
method is through the MAIA though this does not seem very well run, organised
or respected amongst the martial arts community. The NSW Department of
Sports and Recreation also runs coach accreditation courses which provide
similar "authority" to the MAIA stuff. In all its about knowing first
aid, having public liability insurance, knowing something about teaching
(coaching etc), and being properly trained and qualified (shidoshi kai)
so that a reasonable person would consider you to not be negligent in
your actions. Explaing the nature of training and having a suitable membership
form for signing up with an appropriate disclaimer
should also be considered mandatory. Anthony Brien: abrien@optusnet.com.au
§ IMPORTANT! I am writing to tell you that, after sacrificing innumerable
vacations and weekends (much to my wife's chagrin), I have just finished
work on the first book by Hatsumi-sensei in thirteen years. Entitled "Understand?
Good. Play!--Words of Consequence," the book was based on long talks with
Soke and my training journal ("Quotations from Soke" featured in the since-retired
netzine Ura & Omote represent less than a third of the book). The project
has taken over two years to complete. As I have explained to a few close
friends aware of the project, I was trying to set a new standard for books
in the Bujinkan--something that went WAY beyond the stuff of the past.
As I saw it, there honestly were not any books out there that really represented
where Soke had brought the art over the last decade and where he was taking
it as we move into the new Millennium. As such, I tried to seek a balance
of words, photos and layout--a SANSHIN, so to speak. The work was to represent
both the 'martial' and the 'art' of which Soke speaks.... I had the book
professionally designed, worked with multiple photographers, and signed
up an award winning hard-cover printer. It has become a true testament
to Soke's wisdom, in my opinion. The book has about 14 main chapters divided
by theme, entitled the likes of "On Teaching," "On Kicking" and "On Heart"
etc. Interspersed throughout are some Call Outs, containing related articles.
The book also features several Feature articles--longer independent diatribes
by Soke on such things as Takamatsu-sensei and the importance of order
in society. My favorite chapter is entitled, "Tasty Budo." :) The book
has turned out to be quite a tome: 283pp, 50 photos, and three-cloth hard
cover binding. Soke has offered to help launch the book by doing a book
signing at the Washington, D.C. Taikai at the end of this month. Hatsumi-sensei
has been extremely supportive in light of all the hassles that a manuscript
of this size bears. In the Foreword, Soke flatteringly goes so far as
to say, "This is the book!! This is surely an important book that will
stand the test of time and remain a valuable part of history." I hope
it does make a lasting impact on the Bujinkan and remains a source of
wisdom for years to come. The first print run is limited to only 3,000
copies; we will see what happens from there. www.bushinbooks.com
I appreciate everyone's support, especially my wife Hiroko's. Without
it, this book would never have been accomplished.
Best regards and please help pass the word.
Benjamin Cole - bcole1999@hotmail.com
§ ALSO IMPORTANT! Hello Everyone. I wanted to tell you about a new web
site that I have created with Jason and Masayo Jennings, my Buyu now living
in Japan. The site is www.buyubooks.com, a martial arts book web site
and publishing company.
As some of you may already know, Hatsumi Sensei has re-released 6 of his
previously out-of-print books. We have decided to launch our site ahead
of schedule to meet the demand for these books.
We have many wonderful things in store for the site. Please have a look
around and tell us what you think. We would also appreciate you spreading
the word about our site. Our prices are extremely reasonable and we have
access to many products that other company's do not.
Thanks, Josh Sager Webmaster - www.buyubooks.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Seminars
§ AUGUST 25th & 26th - In Slovenia we'll have first Kokusai Bujinkan Buyu
Kai (international meeting of the martial friends) Camp seminar, lead
by Davor Gasparovic Yon Dan - Croatia, Andrej Jasenc, Yon Dan - Slovenia,
Paolo Rossi, San Dan - Italy, Milan Vasic, San Dan - Yugoslavia and Csaba
Danko, San Dan - Hungary. Theme: Gyokko ryu Koshi jutsu & Daisho Sabaki.
More info: andrej.budoarts@siol.net, http://www.infonet.si/ostali/Luka/ninpo.htm
Wellcome all who lives in this part of Europe!
§ Mark Obrien Seminar September 29th 30th and 1st October Tim Bathurst
Seminar Late this year Greg Alcorn visiting Sydney and getting married
very shortly Paul Richardson visiting New Zealand for holiday and doing
a seminar . More info: Anthony Brien: abrien@optusnet.com.au
§ SEPTEMBER 15-16. GERMANY - Zwickau - Seminar with Kostas Kanakis 9.
Dan / Bujinkan Greece - BKD Budokai. Info: kanakis@bkd-budokai.org
Theme: Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu, Hanbo- and Jo Jutsu.
§ SEPTEMBER 22nd - 23rd - ARGENTINA - BUENOS AIRES - International Seminar
Bujinkan Budô Taijutsu with Shihan CARLOS MORALES (12 Dan) Sui -Gyo from
Lanzarote - España - Theme: Gyokko Ryû Kosshijutsu, Bôjutsu - Tantô, Daishô
Sabaki Gata. Organizer: Shihan Christian Petroccello. More info: Goushi@sion.com
Booking: Seminario@Bujinkandojo.cjb.net Web: http://www.geocities.com/chogyudojo/seminario_internacional_bujinkan.htm
Bujinkan Chogyu Dôjô - Calle Año 1852 # 395 - El Palomar C.P. (1684) -
Buenos Aires - Argentina - Tel: (54-11) 4624-6521 - Fax: (54-11) 4665-9197
§ NOVEMBER 10-11. GERMANY - Bochum - Seminar with Sveneric Bogsäter 13.
Dan Info: kanakis@bkd-budokai.org
Theme: Bujinkan Budô Taijutsu Happo Biken, Koshijutsu, Kenjutsu
§ DECEMBER 15-16. GERMANY- Bochum - Seminar with Kostas Kanakis 9. Dan
/ Bujinkan Greece - BKD Budokai.
Info: kanakis@bkd-budokai.org Theme: Review of the theme of the year 2001
§ Welcome to a seminar weekend in Haninge (Stockholm), Sweden www.trygghetskompaniet.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gyokko Ryu no Sanpo Hiden
by Sean Askew
Training last night was so fantastic I can not sleep so I decided to put
some things down on paper. Well actually on my computer.
I had a chance to pull Sensei to the side and ask him a few questions
about this year's theme, the Gyokko Ryu. Several people have been asking
me what it is we have been doing lately in class and "what is it that
Sensei wants us to get out of the Gyokko Ryu this year", and so on. So
I asked him.
So far Sensei has been covering the first two parts of the Sanpo Hiden
or the "three secrets". These are:
Tenryaku Uchu Gassho - Chiryaku Futen Goshin - Jinryaku Chi,Sui,Ka,Fu
Henka Ryoku
It is no easy matter to put into words what these are but I will do my
best to explain the first two. The third will be left for another essay
as I have yet to finish discussing that one with Sensei. Maybe I will
get my chance tomorrow.
Tenryaku Uchu Gassho
>From this posture we are to bring ourselves to a state of calm and prepare
for battle with the enemy. The hand position represents the two opposite
realms of existence coming together to form the universe. In other words
to unite the physical world and the spiritual world, reassuring us that
our body is one with the universe and not something separate or apart
from it.
Our physical body and spiritual mind are both made up of the same elements
as the rest of the universe. Namely Chi (earth), Sui (water), Ka (fire),
Fu (wind) and Ku (space). Man often tends to think of himself as separate
from the universe or "God" if you will, and questions his/her/it's existence
but this gesture serves to reminds us that we are the universe or "god"
itself, living, breathing and dying. So be confident and courageous in
battle because the enemy is made up of the same things you are. The enemy
is not to be feared. You are equal in every respect.
>From this Gassho, Hatsumi Sensei has been moving into TenChi InYo Kamae.
The separation of the hands into this kamae thus brings us back to the
realm of duality or InYo. Positive and negative, Physical and Spiritual.
He often compared this motion of moving from Tenryaku Uchu into TenChi
Inyo to a nebula giving birth to the stars, each with its own death in
the future.
Thus comes the teaching of Banpen Fukyo, to translate this directly it
means 10,000 changes, No surprises. For the Ninja there are no surprises.
Sensei taught that once you are born from the Ku (space) or nothingness
as represented by Tenryaku Uchu Gassho you are put into a form made of
the five elements, or the human body which is made up from dualities.
Mind and body,
spiritual and physical, TenChi Inyo. Once this takes place your death
is also assured. Once you are born, like all other biological life in
this universe, you will eventually die. It is like the two opposite poles
of magnets. They attract each other until they eventually collide. So
when that time comes do not be surprised. This is the ultimate meaning
of Banpen Fukyo. All is change so do not be surprised and do not resist.
Accept nature and her processes, ride the wind of Mother Nature.which
brings us to the next level.
Chiryaku Futen Goshin
This posture represents the wind. This is what Sensei has really been
stressing for the last few months. The movement of the Gyokko Ryu is similar
to that of the wind and there is no way I can put this movement of the
body into words so I will not try. What is important is that at the Chiryaku
level of training one's focus should be on trying to move like the wind
when attacked. The wind has no central point and therefore cannot be controlled
or grasped. It always slips around anything that impedes its path.
The hand position also varies, what is important though is the "wind"
finger or the "pointer" finger. When making this gesture we are to try
to imagine our bodies actually turning into the wind itself. This mindset
when performed properly will help the ninja to move like the wind. Although
we do not see Sensei actually stand with his hands in front of his chest
performing these Kuji-like gestures he does stress the feeling immensely,
often asking his uke to explain to the class what his techniques "felt"
like. The response is generally the same, many faces have turned red from
embarrassment trying to explain what Sensei's movement felt like.because
how do explain what the wind feels like?, especially when it is sending
you a few tatami mats away on to your head.
Well, I feel better now and maybe I can get some sleep. The sun has already
come up and my eyelids are heavy. I hope my essay made sense and if you
have any questions or comments feel free to email me at bkren@webspawner.com
I will be returning to the United States in the beginning of August and
will be continuing my seminar tour covering the Momochi-Den Taijutsu,
this will include a review of the material covered this year in Japan.
These seminars are open to everyone so I hope to see some new faces and
some old ones upon my return.
For more information please go to my website at www.bkronline.org
Shikin Haramitsu Daikoumyo
Sean Askew - Seiryu - Bujinkan Kokusai Renkoumyo
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The New Gyokko Ryu Kosshijutsu
by Arnaud Cousergue
With the new century Hatsumi Sensei entered in a new era in the Bujinkan
System. The theme for this year is Kosshijutsu, mainly studied through
the techniques of the Gyokko Ryu. From the notes I received from friends
in Noda and from my personal experience last April, I will try to expose
here what is, for me, the new approach taught by Sensei. As usual this
text will give my point of view but not any official explanation by Sensei.
If you do not agree, maybe it is because I am wrong.
First, we have to understand that the techniques in the Gyokko Ryu are
only excuses to demonstrate the spirit and reality of the Kosshijutsu.
In this respect, it is not different from our study of Koppojutsu last
year where the techniques of the Koto Ryu where only an excuse to express
the knack of Koppo.
Second, we have to find some answers to understand fully the reasons leading
Sensei to this new approach. Obviously, all teachers already had the techniques
written on paper as we have been studying the techniques of the Gyokko
Ryu extensively over the years.
But what are the main differences? Kamae are different, physical attitudes
are different, inner feelings are different, Kamae are different in both
their physical and mental expressions. Sensei referred to some of these
new Kamae in his writings (cf. his last book published by Joe Maurantonio)
but he did not give any explanation to them.
The four Kamae are the following: Ten Ryaku Uchu Gassho, Chi Ryaku Futen
Goshin Gassho, Jin Ryaku Chi Sui Ka Henka no Kamae, and the most important
one Tenchi Inyo no Kamae.
In my understanding of Japanese (which is not famous) I understand that
Ten Ryaku Uchu Gassho can be translated as "prayer for divine transmission
coming from space". Chi Ryaku Futen Goshin Gassho means "defense prayer
from the either the vault of Heaven or the whole world". Jin Ryaku Chi
Sui Ka Henka Ryaku no Kamae means "attitude transmitted to mankind from
the endless variations of Earth, Water and Fire"; Tenchi Inyo no Kamae
means "attitude of the link between Heaven and Earth and Yin and Yang".
Physical attitudes are different in respect to these Kamae. The Gyokko
Ryu is now divided into Ten, Chi, Jin (instead of Jo Ryaku, Chu Ryaku
and Ge Ryaku no Maki previously). Ten Ryaku is expressed through Uchu
Gassho; Chi Ryaku is expressed through Futen Goshin Gassho no Kamae and
Jin Ryaku is expressed through Chi, Sui Ka Henka Ryaku no Kamae. Each
one of these Kamae with their physical expressions lead to a new inner
feeling. These Kamae are "waiting stances" i.e. when you wait for the
opponent to attack.
The last Kamae, Tenchi Inyo no Kamae is manifested when moving from the
waiting stances, you assume Tenchi Inyo no Kamae when moving in the attack,
there you link the first stances (Uchu Gassho, Futen Goshin, Chi Sui Ka
Henka Ryaku) to the movement. Even if you do not show it (Kokoro Gamae
instead of Tai Gamae).
Inner feelings also change, each attitude develop a feeling perceived
by Uke that will lead him into his own destruction, Uchu Gassho gives
unity (body and mind) to Tori. Futen Goshin gives power in the movements.
Chi Sui Ka Henka Ryaku frightens Uke.
Let us now go beyond our regular senses. If you were able to see the energies
from the body, you would notice that each of these Kamae acts as a physical
"Mudra". Uchu Gassho builds a beam of white energy coming from Heaven
and surrounding your whole body (like the teletransportation stuff in
Star Trek). With Futen Goshin Gassho, Tori disappears from Uke's perceptions,
Uke can only senses a very thin beam of light coming from the ground,
Earth (it is like water coming from a tap). Tori when assuming this Kamae
moves like the wind. Chi Sui Ka Henka Ryaku no Kamae sends a feeling of
fear to Uke. Uke's mind (and actions) is trapped by the stance. It is
like a funnel of energy coming from Tori's body.
You can think that I am exaggerating but this is the truth. Now these
movements would be meaningless if there was nothing more. And there is
a lot more. Everything you do from now on should imply a new understanding:
"Banpen Fugyo". Literally it means "10000 changes, no surprise". This
is the key to the understanding of Kosshijutsu. Keeping this principle
in mind will allow you to finally get to the "Shizen Gyo Un Ryu Sui" or
"ever adapted movement" (this is what we often call the "natural movement").
The Japanese are more concerned about the physical Nature where the Chinese
are more concerned about divine Nature. For example, "Sui" is the water
coming from the sky (Heaven, Ten) where "Mizu" is the water you find on
the ground (Earth, Chi). "Hi" is the fire from the sun (Heaven, Ten) where
"Ka" is the fire on the ground (Earth, Chi); "Fu" is the wind from the
sky (Heaven, Ten) where "Kaze" is the wind on the ground level (Earth,
Chi). This "physical" understanding of life gives the Japanese a definitely
different system of concepts.
If you go even deeper in the understanding of the new Gyokko Ryu, we gradually
make ours these concepts of gravity (Uchu Gassho) and wind (Futen Goshin
Gassho). These feelings do not replace each other; they are added one
to the other. To make me clear, I would say that the three "transmissions"
Ten, Chi, Jin is like the three skins of an onion. Ten is Ten, Chi is
Ten plus Chi, Jin is Ten plus Chi plus Jin. This is a new Sanshin no Kata.
At the Jin level you can expect the movements to be even more natural.
As we do not know yet the inner feeling of the Jin Ryaku this is only
a guess. In a previous Kamaemail, Pete Reynolds exposed us the idea of
"Fusui" or "Feng Shui". We should not forget this in the study of Kosshijutsu.
I hope this text will help the various practitioners in the world to improve
their understanding of the Gyokko Ryu Kosshijutsu taught by Hatsumi Sensei
on the first year of this new Millenium. Personally, I wonder why Sensei
is now teaching a quite spiritual way of understanding the Bujinkan System,
he must have some hidden purpose and I do not know it so far.
Arnaud Cousergue - Bujinkan 13th dan - arnaud@budomart.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Internet Ninja Trap
By Steven A. Smith
"I am having an epiphany."
¹Miriam-Webster Online Collegiate Dictionary defines epiphany as (1):
a usually sudden manifestation or perception of the essential nature or
meaning of something (2): an intuitive grasp of reality through something
(as an event) usually simple and striking (3): a: an illuminating discovery
b: a revealing scene or moment
I have been doing some reading and study lately about warriorship. I am
exploring the principals of being a warrior -vs.- being a survivor. ²The
idealized life of a warrior, as described by Sensei Jack Hoban in one
of his most recent articles, is, "...defending the weak and innocent against
the evil forces of darkness..." I always thought that being a warrior
meant being highly skilled and prepared in a self-defense situation and
being ready to meet the adversary face to face on a battlefield. I never
really gave much thought to the idea of defending others. Most training
today focuses on the aggressor attacking you and then you defending against
it. What if the assault is not focused at you but at another person? Should
we be training for this type of situation as well? What is expected of
a Ninja? My instructors' simple answer is "Protect family, loved ones,
and lastly myself". This piece of writing is not about my in-depth study
of warriorship but about a hidden peril of studying and training.
Hosting a Ninjutsu website at http://ninjutsu.faithweb.com gives me the
opportunity to meet lots of people and share ideas with them. These people
are mostly beginners in the search for information on Ninjutsu. Every
once in a while a veteran of our art will visit and leave his mark on
my guest book or drop an email my way. Almost everyone is courteous and
it is rare that I meet a genuine attitude case. That speaks well of the
Bujinkan in general. Why do I get so many visitors to my website? How
many websites are out there with information about Ninjutsu? How much
is factual? How much is opinion? How much "opinion" is from truly knowledgeable
individuals? I'm thinking about the name Bujinkan. I'm thinking about
the name IBM. I make my living as a Programmer/Analyst. I write programs
for IBM midrange computers. If you get on the Internet and look up IBM
information from an IBM source, you won't find much inaccurate information
published about the hardware, operating systems, software, programming
languages and the like. You will even discover that most independent people
writing IBM related articles wouldn't sign their name to erroneous information
because they risk being humiliated by a super-nerd.
That is not the case with the Bujinkan. The techniques of the Bujinkan
system are open to interpretation and are constantly changing. They are
not set in stone like the operating manuals for an IBM AS/400 Computer.
I live a great distance from my last Shidoshi instructor. I have asked
him several times to write down detailed descriptions of waza so I can
refer back to them as I train in my training group in Georgia. He was
reluctant to do this for me. Why you may ask? Maybe there is no exact
specific way of doing the techniques. Henka (variations) are infinite.
Sure in the beginning when learning a technique for the first time, there
is a basic way of learning the technique, but even that will vary between
instructors. When I first started in the Bujinkan, I took what my first
instructor said as the "Gospel" never questioning him. I never looked
to an outside source for extra training. Maybe this was a result of my
prior training in Shotokan Karate. In karate there is a specific way of
doing every technique. You get better at karate by developing a "muscle
memory" of each of a specified number of forms or Kata that you are learning.
I understand why this is a good thing in karate or any other competition
martial art system. In a structured tournament, you are expected to use
specific punches, kicks, blocks and such. Any deviation from the norm
will result in a reprimand, loss of points, and sometimes disqualification
from a tournament. Bujinkan Ninjutsu, on the other end of the martial
arts spectrum, is not a competitive art. It was developed as a system
by which warriors (using combat and survival skills) could protect their
families, their way of life, and could perpetually exist in the world.
What I mean by perpetual existence is that resources are not used up faster
than they are created by nature. Through propagation of the ninja way
of life, the ninja could effectively persevere in the world without destroying
it in the process.
In today's modern culture, we are taught from childhood to look for shortcuts,
use technology to speed up the time it taken to perform a task, and to
use this advantage to accumulate as many resources for our personal use
as we can in our time allotted on the earth. Through this process, we
tend to use up our natural resources faster than the earth can replenish
them. This is not perseverance. This way of living when viewed on a physiological
level actually resembles viral activity. Has the Human Species evolved
into a virus? We are really the only species on earth that I can think
of that collects more than we need to survive and has an unrestrained
urge to spread and conquer.
With this idea boiling in your cognizant mind, let's go back to the subject
of the Internet. How do we spread our influence in today's society? Our
brains direct our bodies to communicate with others. It's that simple.
We have developed the need to share our idea with others in order to establish
influence and an element of control over our environment. Members of the
Bujinkan are no different. We are affected by this human tendency the
same as everyone else. When we learn a new technique or theory there is
an overwhelming urge to share that idea with others. The problem that
I see with this is with the onset of Internet technology there is suddenly
a vast limitless platform from which we all can broadcast and teach. Anyone
interested in the subjects of our art can easily find our writings and
read them. Whether they immediately accept our ideas or not, their training
and thought is still affected by what they read. I have read so much on
the internet that it clouds my mind and gets me wondering if I am doing
this correctly or am I holding my hand in the right place while in Ichimonji
or is my footwork acceptable while practicing the Sanshin No Kata. It
seems that every person with articles posted on the Internet has a different
explanation. I get so confused.
I traveled 500 miles (one way) to train with my instructor, so I could
only get out there every month or two. (No, I'm not looking for ovation
for my hardship!) I tend to read so much in between training sessions
that when I got back to the dojo I had to spend the first few hours forgetting
all the incorrect stuff that I learned while I was away. Most of these
less than desirable habits have been developed during the month because
of what I studied independently during the time spent back in Georgia.
That recovery time really takes a huge chunk out of my quality training.
There are many instructors teaching in dojos around the world. Some of
them are qualified and some of them are not. (Let me step away from the
keyboard for a minute while I put my bulletproof vest on.) My instinct
tells me that the most qualified instructors have a direct link to Soke
Masaaki Hatsumi in Japan. It is strictly my opinion, but I believe that
an instructor not training in the Honbu Dojo on a regular basis or at
least training with someone who is, is not as qualified as an instructor
who is. How many people posting their works on the Internet have actually
been to and trained in Japan recently or at least has trained recently
with one of the great Non-Japanese Instructors. Boy! That'll get you thinking,
won't it? I'm sorry if I make anybody angry by making that statement,
but it's my honest belief and I'll stand by it.
I have the privilege to train with a Shidoshi who has the wherewithal
to train in Japan. Before he started training in Japan, his instructor,
Shidoshi Ed Martin trained in Japan. Their training came straight from
the Boss. I'm going out on the proverbial limb here and making an assumption.
I'm guessing that Ed Martin doesn't get his latest training ideas from
off the Internet. Boy if I'm wrong, I'm going to get my butt kicked for
making that statement about a 12th Dan. I finally understand why when
I forward something, that I found on the internet, to my instructor he
usually writes me back and hints on how dangerous it is to invest too
much stock into what I found.
Now I'll qualify my sweeping statement about the Internet and clear up
any misconceptions. There are some good guides who publish training information
on the Internet. I'll list a few that I'm sure my instructor Tracy would
agree with. (I refer to my instructor by his first name at his request.
He doesn't like to think of himself as a teacher, but a lifetime student
and friend.) Jack Hoban has some very good articles; Ed Martin has some
very good articles. Any articles or interviews by Soke Masaaki Hatsumi
are good, and I'll even throw in Charles Daniel and Glen J. Morris for
good measure. Also don't forget that many of the good author's views may
change over time as they train and learn more so you may not have their
latest ideas on the subject matter in front of you when you find an article.
Please forgive me if I don't list every good author. Even though you can
read some of their writings on the Internet, It is probably best to read
their works published in book and periodical form, and even then try to
look for the latest releases.
I hope that I have helped someone with my short commentary. I am fully
aware that by publishing this article on the web, I am actually proliferating
the spread of training ideas on the Internet, but perhaps we can overlook
that just this one time. Be careful of what you read on the Internet,
and remember there is no substitute for one-on-one training with a qualified
instructor.
Steven A. Smith wrote this article - 04/2001 - togakureryu@hotmail.com
He lives in North Georgia and trains in Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu as taught
by Masaaki Hatsumi In the Honbu Dojo in Japan.
Sources
¹ Merriam-Webster, Incorporated - http://www.m-w.com/dictionary.htm
² Jack Hoban - http://www.livingvalues.com/warriorship_lifestyle.htm (paragraph
3)
*This article may be duplicated and circulated without the permission
of the author as long as the article is distributed intact, with this
postscript.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A few thoughts between Kihon Happo and Yin and Yang
by Kostas Kanakis
In our daily training the Kihon Happo is an important component for the
study of Budo Taijutsu and its importance is constantly referred.
How does the Kihon Happo behave, however, if we add other aspects e.g.
those of the Yin and Yang?
One of the two characters (kanji) of which the Kihon Happo consists is
the KI , and one of his meanings in this connection is basic".
In addition, KI means also "energy, spirit, soul". The human life energy
which is also known as QI.
In the universal existence there is the positive QI and naturally that
negative QI as well. The Yin Yang QI.
The energy state in the body is called by Japanese physiotherapist as
Kyo and Jitsu (what for a coincidence may you wonder!) and is to the Yin
and Yang very similar, whereby the Kyo - Yin and the Jitsu - Yang is.
A balanced energy state meant also a balanced Yin and Yang and this leads
to the fact that body and spirit are in a condition of unity. If the energy
state is disturbed, then the physician looks for the causes around these,
to eliminate them.
In the study of the Budo Taijutsu it behaves similarly.
If one attend the training with joy and with positive attitude, then also
the spirit and body will be develop continuously further and thereby one
will be in a balanced stage of the training.
If the training is attended, however, without joy and if this is unbalanced,
then one must look for the cause at his roots. Thus one turns back to
the basics (Sanshin and Kihon Happo) to strengthen and to "cure" these
again, in order to bring the own Yin and Yang back in the equilibrium.
By the flow of the universal QI through the 12 main Meridians the entire
body is filled out with the life energy, which holds the human in an existential
balance.
Also in the Budo Taijutsu, by the flow of the Sanshin no Kata and Kihon
Happo from one into another, will be obtained a unity which represents
a evenly balance for our training. The Yin and Yang of Budo Taijutsu.
If we would classify e.g. the forms of the Sanshin no Kata and Kihon Happo
as energy centres, then we could assign a form to each main Meridian.
San (3) x Kihon Happo (8) = 24 forms
12 for the Yin meridian and 12 for the Yang meridian.
Are all energy centres (Sanshin no Kata and Kihon Happo) in balance, so
the development in the Essence of the BudoTaijutsu will be also harmoniously,
balanced and flexible.
The Yin Yang QI behaves in the whole like a magnet with its two poles,
whereby one cannot be exist without the other one.
If we now transfer this aspect to our training and we take e.g. the Jiryoku
(the magnetic repelling and attracting) as starting point in such a way,
we can (like a magnet) attract or repel. We must put, however, these two
contrasts in balance, so that the rhythm will remain.
In a technique e.g. we can implement the attack and the counter attack
in the same rhythm so that both will flow from one to into another. Evenly
like the Yin and Yang.
By the study of the Yin and Yang we penetrate into ranges, beyond the
contrasts. Thank you Hatsumi Sensei, for your lessons!!
** The wind carries the tenets of the Budo further and lets it flow like
the water through the generations **
Bu Fu Sui Ikkan!!
Kostas Kanakis - Bujinkan Shidoshi 9. Dan - Bujinkan Dojo Greece / BKD-Budokai
Crete kanakis@bkd-budokai.org
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Taikai Norway 2002
We have the great pleasure of inviting you to Norway Taikai 2002. This
is Norway's first Taikai, and it is being held in Stavanger the 5. - 7.
July.
For this honorable occasion we have made a website to help spread this
information. Both the invitation and the website have been translated
into English, German and Spanish.
-English website: www.BujinkanDojoNorway.com/Taikai2002-English.html
-German website: www.BujinkanDojoNorway.com/Taikai2002-German.html
-Spanish website: www.BujinkanDojoNorway.com/Taikai2002-Spanish.html
-Norwegian website: www.BujinkanDojoNorway.com/Taikai2002.html
To register please e-mail Elias Krzywacki on Bujinkan@online.no , and
then join the list http://bujinkan.whispereddreams.com/Taikai/TaikaiPeople.php
.
We look forward to meet you at Norway Taikai 2002. So start saving money
now!
Bujinkan Dojo Norway www.BujinkanDojoNorway.com
P.S. Feel free to use Taikai-logo and -links for your own webpage.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
VIDEOS & BOOKS
§ NEW VIDEOS AT SOLKAN: We just received 6 new titles from Japan. Daikomyo
sai 2000 (Koppo Jutsu) (3 volumes); Naginata, Nagamaki, Bisento (1 vol.);
Byakurenkai Karate (2 vol.). Check their availability at http://www.budomart.com/acatalog/
§ Save at least 20% up to 40% on your Hatsumi Sensei videos made by Quest
videos in Japan. Solkan Europe is the official distributor in Europe for
Quest videos in Europe. All our videos available in Pal, Secam and Ntsc
and concern Budo Taijutsu and other martial arts. Visit our Website http://www.budomart.com/acatalog/
§ "Understand? Good. Play!--Words of Consequence" a fantastic book quoting
Hatsumi Sensei by Benjamin Cole. Get it now! at www.bushinbooks.com
§ the video of the sveneric-seminar in Bayreuth last april is available.
Everybody can order it for 50 DM (30 DM for those who attended). Orders
to be sent to: Bujinkan Dojo Bayreuth - Wolfgang Gröger - Jean Paul Strasse
43 - 95444 Bayreuth - Germany
Phone: 0049 921 64906
§ For many years the old books BY Sensei where not reprinted. You can
now buy them online! Get your original books by Hatsumi Sensei at www.buyubooks.com
§ The Bujinkan France Memento leads you from 9th Kyu to Shodan. It is
a helpful tool that goes with the ProTek. Available in French only. Price
80 FF. More info at: http://www.budomart.com/acatalog/
§ You can buy your belt with Japanese embroideries at: http://www.budomart.com/acatalog/
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SUBSCRIBE- UNSUBSCRIBE?
You received this issue of Kamaemail by a friend and you wish to receive
it directly on your computer? Send an email to kamaemailsubscribe@budomart.com
You do not want to receive Kamaemail anymore? Unsubscribe by email at
kamaemailunsubscribe@budomart.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------