Ura & Omote archive, January 1996
- A Look at History (Chris Davy)
- Translating Thought into Action (Ken Harding)
- Christ and the (Right) Cross (Leam Hall)
- Heart as Sword from Temples to Taverns (George R. Bobe)
- Shodan (Hendrik Sundling)
- Sanmitsu: I Know, I Can, I Will! (Courtland J. Elliot)
- If it's not good enough, keep going (Regina Brice)
- Parka Evaluation and Selection Guide (Ron Blackwood)
- Basic Knife Fighting (David Lyle)
- Go-Dai Breathing in Training (Christopher S. Penn)
- Selected Kata from different Ryu (Sean Stonehart)
- Thought of the Day
- Gikan Ryu retraction (Ken Harding)
- End Notes (Liz Maryland)
A LOOK AT HISTORY
Chris Davy
Lately it seems that there is a lot of confusion on the histories of our arts.
First let me state that it is not my intention to attempt to sound like an expert;
I am not. I have, however, done my homework. I will make a statement and proceed
to show you how I came up with it, and why I believe it to be true beyond argument.
"We can trace the roots of our traditions back to the Koshijutsu that came
to Japan via China." It seems that many people want to argue that this is
not possible.
Well. . . Let's discuss this logically. First, I will say that Dr. Masaaki
Hatsumi himself stated this in his book "Hiden Ninja Submission", not me. There
is a section in the book that shows a detailed lineage chart (pg. 48-49) linking
our schools together. Hatsumi goes on to give a short history of the origin
of each of the nine schools (pg. 50-52). As far as I know, this is the only
book that Hatsumi does this in. I am surprised that there are people that have
overlooked this rather large detail.
In his book "Hiden Ninja Submission" under the subtitle 'Gyokko Ryu',
the following statement is made by Masaaki Hatsumi: "It is not known exactly
by whom this technique was introduced, but it is assumed that this Koshijutsu
was developed based upon Chinese Kenpo. Although Koshijutsu means 'to be able
to knock an enemy down with one finger,' it is considered that it rather denotes
'the backbone (Koshi)' of martial arts. This Gyokko Ryu has later become the
basis of various martial arts of Iga."
According to the "Bugei Ryuha Daijiten" the Gyokko Ryu contains
Koshijutsu, Shitojutsu, and Ninpo. The Gyokko Ryu also incorporates Tenmon Chimon,
Saryaku Hiden (Koshijutsu Kata) Baku-in Sanpo Hiden (Kuji) and the idea of Shinshin
Shingan. . . The Gyokko Ryu is the oldest of the nine schools of the Bujinkan.
The Togakure Ryu is next, even though it has had more generation leaders than
the Gyokko Ryu (some did not live to long). The following shows the initial
founders that mark the formal beginning of the teaching of the Koshijutsu in
Japan. Note that I have given the relationship of each Ryu to this foundation.
I have not given a lot of detail on the history; I only want to point out that
there is a trace to the Koshijutsu in all but the Takagiyoshin Ryu. I am only
saying that the arts have a common historical point of origin not that they
are all Ninja Ryu or that they are all practiced the same conceptually. Qualifications
for a Ninja Ryu is another topic on the Ninja no Hachimon, and when in the school's
history it used or adopted certain practices. I am not saying that this information
is gospel, but it is based on the best possible sources.
Lineage: Cho Gyokko -> Cho Buren -> Chan Busho (Ikai) -> Gamon Doshi
-> Garyu Doshi . . . ->
Gyokko Ryu: Garyu Doshi -> Hachiryu Nyudo -> Tozawa Hakuunsai (Formal
founder of the Gyoko)
Koto Ryu Koppojutsu: There are several theories that all link this Ryu to
the Gyokko Ryu, just differently. The "Bugei Ryuha Daijiten" says that
the Koto Ryu comes from the Koshijutsu of the Gyokko Ryu. Hatsumi says it was
founded in the middle of the 16th century by Toda Sakyo Ishinsai who had learned
the Gyokko Ryu from Gyokkan, a Buddhist monk (found in the book "Hiden Ninja
Submission".)
Togakure Ryu Ninpo: Garyu Doshi -> Kimon Hei Bei -> Hakuun Doshi ->
Kain Doshi -> Togakure Daisuke I. Again in "Hiden Ninja Submission" Hatsumi
says that the Togakure Ryu Ninpo Taijutsu is a branch of the Koshijutsu.
Kumogakure Ryu Ninpo: Garyu Doshi -> Yasukiyo Heinai Iga -> Heiraizaemon
Ienaga Iga (Kumogakure Hoshi) who is believed to be the founder of Iga Ryu Ninpo.
Gikan Ryu Koppojutsu: A branch of the Gyokko Ryu Koshijutsu as mentioned by
both the "Bugei Ryuha Daijiten" and Hatsumi Sensei ("Hiden Ninja Submission".)
Gyokushin Ryu Ninpo: Stated in "Hiden Ninja Submission" to be traced back
to the Koshijutsu. The "Bugei Ryuha Daijiten" also traces it back to the Koshijutsu.
Shinden Fudo Ryu Dakentaijutsu: Garyu Doshi -> Izumo Kanja Yoshiteru (founder
of the Ryu) Masaaki Hatsumi states in the book "Hiden Ninja Submission" that
this Ryu can be traced back to the Koshijutsu.
Kukishinden Ryu: Garyu Doshi -> Izumo Kanja Yoshiteru (the founder of the
Ryu; the founder of Shinden Fudo Ryu Dakentaijutsu.) This Ryu has major influences
outside of it's link to the Koshijutsu. For example it's link to the Amatsu
Tatara Hibumi.
Takagi Yoshin Ryu Jutaijutsu: This is the only Ryu that I personally cannot
show a trace back to the Koshijutsu. I can however state the extensive history
provided by the "Bugei Ryuha Daijiten" and other old Japanese martial
dictionaries discuss the extensive deep relationship to the Kukishin family
arts. It is inseparable. This relationship itself is not a link to the Koshijutsu
but an important point. It would not have evolved as it has without the connection
to the Kukishin family. The Takagiyoshin Ryu traces back to the Rinpiden scrolls
that were studied by a warrior monk. When you understand the eclectic nature
found in the history of this Ryu you should begin to see how possible it is
that somewhere in time it could have been influenced by the Koshijutsu. It would
be near impossible to find this connection but it is still a possibility. There
are many other relationships that the Ryu shares that suggests such a connection.
A few years ago in Japan Hatsumi said that to truly understand the nature
of the martial arts we have to become anthropologists in our approach to studying
the history. He also stated that in the taijutsu the past, present and future
become one. So, I offer the following as a minimum when looking at the historical
significance of our art.
When we begin to further research the history of our schools outside the realms
of the Bujinkan, we can begin to practice the concepts of our oldest tradition.
Using the three fold approach of the Sanshin we can take a look backward with
the help of the "Bugei Ryuha Daijiten", "Nihon Kobudo Jiten",
and the "Nihon Kobujutsu". These three books on the history of Japanese
martial arts together form the spectacles through which we can begin to see
the historical relationships and progressions of the Ryuha from a non biased
view. If we wish to look from the past forward to understand the practical points
of our traditional views and techniques we have to look somewhere else. We need
to call on the assistance of the Bansenshukai, Shoninki, and the Ninpiden to
forge our view from that perspective. These are the three most complete writing
on Ninjutsu. They were written during one of the most important times in the
history of the Ninja, by Ninja. It is difficult, but possible, to find all of
these books written in modern, readable Japanese. It is part of the quest to
tackle such obstacles. Another important place to look for information is by
reading all the books written by such authors as Yumio Nawa, Heishichiro Okuse,
Koyama Ryotaro, Gingetsu, etc. . . all of who are or were Ninja historians in
the native country of the Ninja. I assume that any aspiring ninja anthropologist
worth their weight would first collect, and read all books written by the foremost
experts of this century before drawing conclusions and writing "The Concise
History of the Ninja" only after looking at the art from an insider's point
of view. I hope no one would pretend to have all of the answers after only learning
from one source.
I will say that myself and many others are well on the way to becoming true
anthropologists on this art. It has been very expensive - I have spent thousands
of dollars for out of print Japanese books on Ninjutsu (and related topics)
after the cost of flying to the country. Those of us who are intrigued to that
point are far fewer than those who have a friend who told them that so and so
said that there are 'X' number of kata in the Gikan Ryu. I feel that I would
be doing the Bujinkan a disservice by posting articles on the historical aspects
of the art we study. There is far too much room for error, and things that no
one will ever know. No information is far better than mis-information. Leave
it to Hatsumi Sensei and the Sanmyaku Bujinkan Densho to bring the necessary
information to the organization. There are many aspects of the information that
are cut and dry, but unfortunately too many people want to get rich and famous
by announcing that they are the Ninpo Messiah, bearer of the direct knowledge.
It's not that I want to hoard the information, just protect it from those who
want just to possess it for it's resale value.
In closing, I have discussed different methods of looking at history to help
us to relate to and understand what we learn now in training. The things I mentioned
will hopefully spark an interest and give a starting point for those who want
to pursue the study of our art's vast history. As practitioners we have some
sense of the future of the art, we have a confidence that the art will persevere.
Survival is the very nature of what we do. Practice and study can help us insure
that the Bujinkan arts are preserved. Masaaki Hatsumi made an interesting point
at the last Daikomyosai in Japan, he said that if you don't study correctly
and honestly that the very nature of Ninjutsu would come forth, you would become
invisible by erasing yourself from the Bujinkan. Let's keep in mind one truth
that has proven itself over time, that history is our greatest teacher. History
has also been distorted and changed to suit the needs of a people, we need be
careful of this. Let's work together in the Bujinkan to learn the correct history
of what we study, and work as a family to protect and preserve what we learn
from it...
NOTE: All sources of information listed within this article reside on my personal
bookshelf. I will assure you that they are all readable (in modern Japanese.)
I have been able to collect over 50 books on Ninjutsu in Japanese many of which
are out of print. It has been a fun hobby trying to find original copies of
the books I mentioned, but well worth the time and money spent. I spend most
of my time training, research is important but not substitute for training.
Christopher P. Davy is a Shidoshi in the Bujinkan and has traveled to Japan many times to train and research the Bujinkan arts. He has been training in martial arts for over 18 years and currently heads training at the Bujinkan Yume Dojo in Crofton, MD where all classes are taught free of charge. If anyone has any questions or comments feel free to contact him at <CDavy@dol.gov> or you may also contact him through <JeffM777@aol.com>
TRANSLATING THOUGHT INTO ACTION
Ken Harding
While teaching a private lesson to a white belt student, I was confronted with
his frustration; something I have seen many times before.
"I can't get it right," he would complain.
"No one," I replied, "not even the black belt students, gets everything
right the first time. In fact," I added, "there is no such thing as 'right'.
Technique is not a matter of black and white; only shades of gray."
Yes, a technique can be performed totally wrong, if timing, distancing
and angling are poor; but because of the changing nature of real combat, there
is no perfect way to do anything. What is a good technique in one situation
may become insufficient if the attacker alters his approach even in the slightest.
Bujinkan Taijutsu in the end is not about techniques, but about moving your
body well, translating thought into action. Hatsumi Soke has said over and over
again that it doesn't matter whether you're a good technician or a poor one,
as long as you can survive.
When practicing a technique, whether you're being taught by your local teacher
or by Hatsumi Soke, try to extract the important ideas from what you are being
shown. These important ideas take the form of certain ways of moving, stepping
or shifting, specific targets and body weapons, a new way to use timing, distancing
or angling, etc. Whether you can remember or memorize a technique or kata is
unimportant, as long as you understand it in that moment and can catch the feeling
of it. It is what you learn that is important, not what you remember.
Each one of the ryu waza of the Bujinkan Dojo contain these things, moments
completely unique to themselves. As an example, take any kata you like. Why
did someone take the time to write it down in the old scrolls? Because they
thought that it contained concepts so important, ideas that weren't found in
any other form, that it was necessary to write it all down and transmit the
feeling to future warriors of their clan. They were trying to tell us something
with each of the forms that they took the time to write down. I have previously
called this "a message in a bottle, cast into the sea of time", and while that
may sound melodramatic, the meaning behind it is crucially important. What I
meant is that the kata are merely bottles, conveying important concepts for
real fighting. They are a means to an end, not the end themselves. They teach
your body to properly use taijutsu and your mind to move in the way of a warrior.
Learn the forms, understand them, and then forget them so that you can use them.
They are of no use to you until you can forget them and not think. This is exactly
what Hatsumi Sensei has been teaching. But it is not an instant process.
Some people, even those who have been in the Bujinkan a long time, have not
yet realized this concept. They look only at the forms and this leads them to
believe that the art is not very effective for modern types of fighting. They
see Hatsumi Sensei teaching in a very ethereal, esoteric manner, sometimes very
soft and at times a bit fanciful. At times like these you have to look very
closely and try to hear what he is saying to you. Taijutsu has nothing to do
with words; it is a language spoken with the body that transcends time, borders
and nationalities. I hope these people can reexamine what they think they see
in this art, and to break open the bottle to read the message inside.
This article appears in the January 1996 issue of Shadowgram. Shidoshi Ken Harding, 6th Dan, heads the Missouri Ninja Center in St. Louis. He started his training in 1984, has trained with Hatsumi Soke in Japan, and studies Japanese, Yoga, shiatsu, herbology and nutrition. He may be contacted via E-mail: <Shadowswrd@aol.com>
CHRIST AND THE (RIGHT) CROSS
Leam Hall
While sitting with Kanshi Will Maier at his home for lunch one day, he asked "How
do the people at your church feel about you taking martial arts?" Kanshi Maier
knows that my Christian faith is a major part of my life, and many people have
doubts about whether those told to "turn the other cheek" should practice a fighting
lifestyle.
As a Christian, and student of Budo Taijutsu, I would like to share my perceptions
on how these two lifestyles blend. There are three areas of major concern; whether
a Christian should learn to fight at all, are there specific non-Christian religious
mechanisms in our art, and, lastly, how do I know where to draw the line. Please
keep in mind that these are my personal perceptions; every Christian will have
to make their own decisions based on their prayers.
Should a Christian practice a combat art? The answer is a simple "it depends."
It depends on whether you practice the art as a part of an holistic lifestyle
to glorify God and his blessings in your life; or if you practice out of fear,
or anger, or from the need to satisfy your ego. The intention of the training,
and the conflict, determines if it is a sin. I feel the rightness of defending
myself and my family. Christ accepted the Roman Centurion (a military officer).
Our society could not function without police officers; yet are these officers
forbidden to be Christians? Taijutsu is a good physical medium to express the
glory of the physical body God gave us.
The second question, "Are there specific non-Christian aspects to our art?"
needs to be answered "Yes". Deeply ingrained into many martial arts, and ours
in particular, are occult trappings that can explored after several years of
training. At the Ohio conference, Shidoshi Hayes explained the nine levels of
development. It is my conviction that there is an involvement in the occult
at the upper levels. I believe there will come a time in my taijutsu that I
will have to turn down opportunities in training. Does this bother me? Of course.
But the long term benefit, to a Christian, outweighs the short term benefits
of the extra powers. Does this mean that all Christians must train for just
a couple years and then quit? I don't think so. My belief is that I can continue
to develop my physical skills to my own personal maximum. Although I may never
make Godan, give me a few years and I'll have a smooth ganseki nage. As a Christian,
take your training as one part of the development of the whole person you are;
God will provide opportunities for you to make no one else can. And keep in
mind, you are always an example of Christ, inside and outside the dojo.
The last question is the most personal. "Where do I draw the line?" As a Christian,
the answer is "On your knees!" Only through prayer, and the support of mature
Christians who you can talk to will give you the strength to live life in the
method God intended for you. God has a divine plan for your life. Taijutsu is
just one more tool that God can use to make you the person you can be. But the
possibilities for deception and compromise are rampant. Anything you do can
be scrutinized because you claim to represent Christ. But keep in mind the brotherhood
that Christ has called us to; we are to reach out to those around us, those
we know best. Don't think it is right to go into the dojo and look down on someone
because their faith is different! It is a challenge to you, from God: "Go out
into the world..."
In closing, I ask you to take a moment of self-examination. Use the discipline
taijutsu has taught you, and the loving openness of the Christian walk. Examine
your own heart, and life, for places you may have compromised, or people you
may have unknowingly offended. Take the mature step, and ask Christ to work
in your life, and commend your taijutsu training to Him. He will open doors
for you that were never even seen!
Leam Hall is a mid-thirty-ish student and regular crash test dummy at Will Maier's Martial Arts America in Columbia, Maryland. If he ever grows up he wants to be a bureaucrat. He may be reached via e-mail at: <lh1@pgstumail.pg.cc.md.us>
HEART AS SWORD FROM TEMPLES TO TAVERNS
George R. Bobe
At various points during your training in this martial tradition, you should experience
a certain degree of spiritual growth and self-realization. With each accomplishment,
as well as each obstacle, there should be a subtle metamorphosis that occurs as
you negotiate difficult katas and techniques. There should also be a reflection
in your ability to negotiate the obstacles that present themselves on a day to
day basis in your life. To only be able to mimic and perform techniques without
the ability to channel or transfer the energies present in conflicts and confrontations
is equivalent to only being able to type with one hand. And if you're still puzzled
as to what the sound of one hand clapping is, I can assure you that the sound
of two hands clapping is significantly louder. In our tradition, mind, body, and
spirit must share a harmonious equilibrium that emanates and manifests itself
in everything we do. This is what allows some of us to experience the catharsis
inherent in forging our spirit through martial tradition; and the ability to enjoy
our lives and reap the rewards of exercising our will on behalf of those who are
less-equipped to defend themselves, as well as doing so for the good of the communities
we consider ourselves to be members of.
I have recently experienced some of these by-products that arise from active
exercise of "ninpo" in my path outside of the dojo. With that comes to mind
an incident that occurred in an Irish tavern.
On a Friday evening, after meeting a very close female friend at work, I suggested
we retire to a local tavern to enjoy a pint of our favorite winter brew. I was
well aware that the general crowd at this establishment was comprised of aging
businessmen, whose poor taste in cigars was only surpassed by their pompous
rhetoric and obvious disdain for the blue collar fellow. Nonetheless, I was
not to be deterred by the behavior of others from enjoying a pint of Pete's
Wicked Winter Brew.
Upon arriving at said establishment, I was pleased to hear the overture from
The Who's "Quadrophenia" playing on the stereo and was quite comfortable with
this. Therein, we ordered two pints of what we thought were Pete's Wicked Winter
Brew.
After three sips, I decided that what I was served was not what I had ordered,
but was in fact Samuel Adams. To further confirm my suspicions, I asked one
of the attending bartenders to pour me a small taste of the Sam Adams. As I
suspected, there was Pete's Wicked Winter Brew coming out of the Sam Adams tap
and vice versa. I brought this to the attention of this particular bartender
and asked if I could be compensated a pint of what I originally ordered. The
gentlemen informed me that being a new employee, he would have to clear it with
the senior bartender. The senior bartender seemed to take an affront to my appearance
and what he felt was an attempt at getting a free beer. He shouted that I should
have said something sooner and that to bring this matter up after what he considered
"finishing my beer"(which was only three sips drained) was not worthy of consideration.
Now, given the fact that my only objective was to enjoy a pint of my desired
ale, which was ill-dispensed, and was met with irritable disposition, I was
compelled to action.
The action I took was to bring this matter to the attention of the manager,
who immediately saw the validity in my argument and was more than happy to compensate
me a round of drinks. While heading to the rear of the bar where we were originally
situated, my counterpart was in the process of leaving. When I inquired as to
the reason for her flight, she informed me that the aforementioned ill-mannered
bartender was shouting at her in regards to my attempt to resolve this matter.
When the manager instructed the bartender to pour us two beers, compliments
of the house, he stubbornly refused and contested that I finished my beer and
would not submit to the wishes of the manager.
At this point, I said I was no longer interested in having a beer and that
it would be in the manager's best interest to reconsider the usefulness of this
bartender to her establishment. Now this is where we arrive at what is known
as "heart as sword"
It would have taken no effort on my part to channel the energy inherent in
this situation in a less than considerate direction. I could have easily taken
a poll on how many patrons were enjoying the two distinct beverages in discussion,
announced that all were oblivious to the difference, and that the house was
culpable. This could have taken the form of many irate patrons demanding compensation
for their beverage purchases, and cast a poor reflection on the operators of
the tavern. This is not the way of the benevolent warrior. Which brings to mind
a Zen story of an emperor whose pompous ignorance and arrogance nearly costs
him the "face" that the Japanese are legendary for keeping.
The exact details escape me, but the emperor of mention is the sort who would
dine at a French restaurant, order escargot, thinking it's chic, and be insulted
beyond words that his plate harbored snails. So this particular emperor decided
he wanted to impress his guests and subjects at a banquet with a snake soup
that was said to be very popular and delicious. He employed the services of
a cook, who happened to be a Zen monk, to prepare this dish. When the meal was
to commence, and all were in attendance, the emperor was enraged to find that
there was a snake's head in his soup. Not realizing that it was the snake's
head that gave the soup it's flavor, the emperor summoned the cook to his side
to protest this unappetizing sight. When the cook was questioned as to "What
is this in my soup?," he merely reached into the bowl, extracted the snake's
head and devoured it, exclaiming, "Whatever it was, it was delicious". At this,
all the guests present laughed heartily and the emperor kept face. But the emperor,
secretly knew he was spared an embarrassment unbecoming an emperor, and was
grateful to the cook for not showing the emperor for the fool he was. This story
is coined "eating the blame".
Back at the tavern, it was made news to me that the "ill-mannered bartender"
was dismissed and that should I return, that my first drink be on the house.
The other bartender, who was more accommodating than the afore, was quite grateful
to me because the sudden departure of his senior provided him with a substantial
increase of work hours and pay. This also facilitated the acquisition of an
apartment and furniture.
It was not my objective to effect this sort of re-action, but every action
we commit elicits an equal or greater re-action. As practitioners of ninpo,
it is our responsibility to cultivate this reality to a degree that benefits
our friends and neighbors and our environment on a whole. To be involved in
such a tradition and only walk away with the ability to defeat a physical adversary
would be incomplete in its triumph and a terrible insult to our predecessors
and "sempais". Participation in this art encompasses more than physical ability
to overcome and overwhelm our enemies, but requires that we apply ourselves
to the task of enlightening ourselves, our friends, and our adversaries.
During my training at New York Budo, I've come to realize that compassion
is the greater part of valor. I've served proudly as a U.S Army Ranger (Airborne),
and have witnessed actions by men both brave and meritorious. I aspire to continue
to commit acts of merit and deeds of compassion to propagate the acts of those
who have come before me in an attempt to not let their good works go unsung.
From Hatsumi Sensei to Musashi, from General George Washington to General George
S. Patton, all these men left us a guide by which to effect the greater good
that man is capable of. My most sincere and deep gratitude for the ability to
harness these abilities also goes out to Shidoshi Jean-Pierre Seibel and all
the instructors at New York Budo, whose selfless disclosure of what they've
learned is an inspiration to what we all can accomplish through ninpo.
George Bobe is an active kyu level student at New York Budo. His past experiences include study in Tae Kwon Do under Duk Sung Sun and Combat Karate, Go-Ju Style under Bill Louie. He has served in the U.S. Army Rangers (Regimental Headquarters). His other talents interests range from archery and philosophy to music and language. He is a freelance audio-video technician and can be reached via the editor at: <ashidome@usa.net>
SHODAN
Hendrik Sundling
Shodan! Somewhere in the future I could see the black belt before my eyes. But
five years ago when I tied my white belt around my gi it did feel pretty far away.
Well, not to say impossible. For almost two years I wore my white belt. At the
beginning, it was just as a thing to keep my gi in place. But the more used and
dirty it got, the greater the pride of wearing it.
In 1991, I got awarded my ninth kyu and I felt I was on the right track. That
test was the only test I have been really prepared for. It was a very special
feeling to tie my green belt around my gi - a feeling of pride. There were about
8-10 people who passed the ninth kyu test that day. Ten pioneers of Bujinkan
in the Katrineholm-dojo. Today, only three of us are still active.
I have always believed that tests are boring, hard and not very inspiring.
It is difficult for me to see them as a way to move forward as a martial artist.
During my journey through the kyu-grades, I believe that my test for seventh
kyu was my happiest one. Not particularly the diploma, but the meeting with
the Bujinkan students at the Ostermalms budoschool in Stockholm who didn't believe
that ninjutsu from "the forest" would be of any value. They had to change their
minds. It was proven that the ninjas from the countryside were of good quality.
As proof of that, my Sensei, Mats Brickman, was awarded 4th dan because Bo Munthe
believed he should do the Godan-test in Japan some time later. And we all know
how that went. . . (He passed).
Until the Shodan test I had always tried to postpone the tests, but, in the
end, I have always done my duty and stood in front of my sensei and done my
best. But this time it was different. I did not feel worthy to try for Shodan
and I tried several times to have my test moved to a later date. But Sensei's
answer was always the same: NO! and the motivation from the jury was: "It's
not up to the student to decide when he or she is ready for a test". So it was
my Sensei who made that decision. END OF DISCUSSION!
To ask nicely didn't work. What was I supposed to do? Steal Sensei's "Star
Trek: The Next Generation" videos? Make threats about telling lies that Sensei
owns a stereo from Phillips? Both alternatives would result in deep pain. I
had to choose, fight or escape? I chose the first.
Despite anxiety and a feeling of being powerless I had to make the best of
the situation. I had to try and memorize the two million techniques I was supposed
to know. The closer I got towards the date of the test, the greater the frustration.
On the Friday before the seminar I had reached a state of total apathy concerning
the test. The first day of the seminar was great fun with a lot interesting
techniques. One of the best seminar days of my life. I had a feeling of great
energy and inspiration. My students seemed likewise.
Sunday, bloody Sunday, day two of the seminar. The last thing I said to Joakim,
one of the teachers in the Hallstahammar-dojo was, "I won't do it". I heard
him say something like, "It will be all right", but it didn't reach me. The
test in itself didn't differ from other tests. Long and hard hours showing and
describing techniques in front of one Shidoshi and two Nidans.
When it was time for the announcements of the results and diplomas, Sensei
waited with me until the end. When I had to stand up in front of all the people
at the seminar I thought of the BIG question; "Shodan or not?". I thought I
hadn't make it, because I felt I had done a bad test. When Sensei actually ripped
my green belt of me I thought about the Michael Jackson-hit, "Black or White"...
SHODAN! To tie the black belt around my gi was a feeling I can't describe.
It was about the same feeling I had when I was awarded my green belt, but much
stronger.
Finally I would like to say that the joy of seeing my students pass their
tests is as great as the feeling of passing myself. Both things are payment
of the hard work I've done. I hope I can make up to the demands of a Sensei.
BUDO IKKAN.
Henrik Sundling started training 1988 and is now a Nidan of Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu and has been to a couple of Tai Kais, including the one in Tucson, Arizona 1995, with his sensei Mats Brickman. Henrik is an instructor in a little Swedish town called Katrineholm. He is 21 years old and are studying to become an officer in the Swedish army. Other hobbies includes music, photography and cuddling with his girlfriend. He may be contacted at: <matbri@rsv.svskt.se>
SANMITSU: I KNOW, I CAN, I WILL!
Courtland J. Elliot
As the years go by, one cannot help but realize that every event, every chance
meeting and every idle thought is completely and necessarily predicated by what
has come before. Having said that, I need to tell you that I categorically reject
the very idea of determinism.
I have spent the better part of my adult life exploring not so much the "how"
of humankind (and the rest of the universe for that matter), but rather the
"why" of what goes on here. This past year shines out as an example of what
I have been trying to do.
I should probably tell you that I am a creature of rude flesh and bone (and
nerve endings), having never had much aptitude for disciplines of the spirit,
if you will - suffice it to say that I'm the only person I know who would consistently
fall asleep doing zazen meditation.
1991 started off with not so much a bang as a whisper - I traveled down to
the sunny South to spend 3 days learning about Chakras and a small Satori tapped
me on the shoulder.
I realized that I wasn't so much a down-to-earth solid citizen but rather
a creature of fire and energy! I learned in Tampa that I have been not allowing
myself to express my passion, which may surprise those of you who know me.
I have spent years trying to calm myself, refining myself into that awesome
Thunderbolt of compassion and wisdom. And all that time, I was falling into
the trap of making accommodation for those around me and seeking approval for
my acts. I didn't discriminate between those who wanted to pursue this life-long
adventure along the path to total awareness and wisdom, and those idly passing
their time just sight-seeing, so that I ended up heeding fools and tending to
martyrs.
I could see that without Passion, one cannot truly become powerful and the
world needs more powerful, positive, productive people. I began to cultivate
those aspects of my life where I could show more resolution and started directing
myself, and those closest to me, towards attainable empowering goals and objectives.
I also began formal study of an esoteric tradition that I have been "hanging
around" for the last decade - not only do I want to become more powerful, but
I have taken it upon myself to try to embrace the world with loving kindness.
At first this seems like a contradiction, but I have/am/will learned/learning/learn
that this is exactly what I need to do to make myself a greater asset not only
to my friends and family but all of the world around me. I have seen and felt
the power of the Sanmitsu (the 3 Secrets), which has been defined as thought,
word and deed, but I believe should be more accurately described as intention,
ability and commitment.
Of late, I have come to realize that the pendulum has perhaps swung too far.
I have become a bit reckless and am only now recognizing this.
1992 promises to quite the year for me. In fact it is my year, being a Fire
Monkey myself. I have major projects to complete, and significant goals to achieve.
MAY YOU ALL FIND YOUR PEACE IN THE YEAR TO COME. NINPO IKKAN!
(Originally written for Dimensions Magazine in 1992) As it happened, 1992
was a banner year for Court. He hosted the 10th Anniversary of Canadian Ninpo
training with Stephen K. Hayes, arranged for him to be profiled on the TV series
"The Originals", and was promoted to Sandan. Court may be reached at: <jcebujin@io.org>
IF IT'S NOT GOOD ENOUGH, KEEP GOING
Regina Brice
This past month was very interesting. I had a person who trained with my group
freak out on me, which I interpreted as a challenge. His technique was pretty
bad, yet I still chose not to escalate. However, I did give him a piece of my
mind, and told him not to return. Then, I broadcast my failure as a teacher, to
get a message out to friends and others that anyone is open to challenge. It didn't
matter that I never professed to be any good at this stuff; it didn't matter that
I approach Taijutsu more as a lineage-based art, than as a fighting style. It
didn't matter that I tell folks that I'd be the first to use a gun if I had a
choice - that the Kung Fu stylists, Jujitsu practitioners, Kali and JKD top students
all have something to offer. It didn't matter that the person who got stupid on
me had been practicing martial arts for a long time, was well educated, and professed
adherence to Japanese dojo etiquette. It just didn't matter.
So, I broadcast the event for three principal reasons, none of which are particularly
about my ego (women with martial arts egos had better visit a shrink anyway!).
First, I did it because I felt a responsibility, since I talk about martial
arts law all the time, to talk about reality instead of text-book intellectualized
legal stuff. It offered a way for others to think about how to approach this
kind of problem before it happens, and to determine the ramifications. Second,
folks - particularly those in the Bujinkan - need to be reminded that it can
happen to anyone at any time. Indeed, given my approach to training, I thought
it highly unlikely to happen to me. Are you all ready? Third, I did it because
it shows we need some serious quality control in the Bujinkan, and shows what
happens when you ignore your instincts and take anyone in.
With respect to the first point, people have many motivations for issuing
a physical challenge. This guy could have disliked me personally, disliked the
way I run training, disliked the Bujinkan, disliked women, - who knows! The
bottom line is, his motivations don't matter. What matters is my safety, which
I got back. I chose not to escalate and I thank my training for the fact that
it was a conscious and considered choice. I learned a long time ago that there
is always someone bigger, badder, cuter, taller, skinnier than me, so if I can
lose safely, I will. Luckily, my martial arts teachers throughout the years
prevented me from investing my ego in someone else's ability - or lack thereof.
And, for heaven's sake, it's not about being a "teacher," for I was obviously
not to this particular student. If I had someone with more training who follows
Hatsumi-sensei, I'd study with them while waiting to get back to Japan! Many
people know more, that's the easy part.
With respect to the third point, I have said many times that I have always
had a problem with the quality of training in the States. The issue for me is
not whether this stuff works. Clearly it does, because no one I've ever met
could take the Boss, a 60-yr. + old Japanese man, in hand to hand combat - or
with a traditional weapon. No one of common sense, experience and training would
bother to try. In fact, even were I a UFC champion, I would not advise screwing
with at least three of the Shihan. I don't have a penis to compare with his,
so I don't bother. And, I know that when it comes to asking him to teach me,
it is a matter of receiving whatever he chooses to show. Every parent knows
the game of spelling out words before the child learns to read. I have to steal
whatever I can, and I'm lucky enough to understand him when he chooses to use
regular Japanese. It's that simple. Is it worth it? It is for me. And, I don't
think I'm being abused for participating in this system. Others apparently do,
some of whom apparently believe that Mr. Tanemura comes from such a different
tradition that he will hand them what they want on a silver platter.
For me, the training is sacred because it will never end. There is no goal
and it is not dependent upon a charismatic personality. I hold a fifth degree
black belt: so what?! Some one else holds a 10th degree: so what?! The only
thing it signifies for me is a relationship to the Boss - it sure as hell doesn't
mean I'm half as good as Manaka-sensei! Me, I don't care if I ever learn to
fight and I don't care if this stuff works in the "real world." My faith is
grounded in experience which has nothing to do with some unknown assailant lurking
in the shadows. I also don't care if I have to pay to get it: I already have
to pay to get food, clean water and to practice my profession. In the Bujinkan,
the only thing rank buys you is a better training partner, so I don't care if
someone thinks I have earned it to their satisfaction or not.
Now, for some people that's not enough. They need the illusion of invincibility
or at least the comfort of heightened defenses. In the States, the rule is still
to kill/maim rather than to try to make a better society through active participation.
Upon my return from Japan and the glamour of a top law firm, I taught in public
school and at a college while trying to figure out what to do with myself. I
took on adolescents testing their limits and junior drug dealers, and in a variety
of ways. When other teachers allowed children to comb their hair, on the last
day of school I made kids do improvised arithmetic puzzles. I thank my training
for allowing me to have standards, even at a lousy $40 per day. Perhaps, if
we want to feel safer, maybe we should spend more energy teaching children to
be better human beings, instead of learning how to take them out when they get
older.
This fall, I decided to re-open my law practice in Michigan. I will be defending
many clients who will be guilty of something, if not the crime charged. And,
I will be one hell of a thorn to the prosecution. I will represent people in
divorce, a truly horrible arena, hardly gentle and civilized like the corporate
world pretends to be. The pleasure is that I have absolute control over whom
I represent. My professional line is drawn at defending people who kill or batter
those who depend upon them for love or survival. Martial arts instructors are
no different! In the Bujinkan, we are free to decline to take in certain students,
and to move on when our needs are not being met. Extraneous comment is unnecessary:
it's between each student and Dr. Hatsumi. Instructor inactivity and criticism
without a serious and sustained effort to promote positive change is not helpful
to our school. I hope the New Year brings better things.
Shidoshi Regina Brice's primary life skills are in law (international corporate and family) and Japanese translation. She uploads legal FAQs to rec.martial-arts (a newsgroup on the internet) every few weeks. "A Martial Artist's Guide To American Law" (560 pages) is now $50; those who've already bought it will receive the first-year update free. She translates letters at $25/page and does seminar interpretation at $250/day + expenses. She will also paraphrase Japanese books ($50 per original page) but Soke's works are for individual instructor use only. In spite of her "slacker" front, a training group has re-formed on Sunday AM; she's flexible if you're out that way. She may be contacted via E-mail: <Happo@aol.com>, or write Regina Brice, P.O. Box 87, Oberlin, OH 44074.
PARKA EVALUATION AND SELECTION GUIDE
Ron Blackwood
I have reviewed ten different options/combinations of parkas. Any one of them ill serve you well for a long time. Pick the one that meets your needs the best. Make sure that the fit is good .... one that allows freedom of movement but will still prevent drafts around the neck, wrists, and waist. The following is a selection guide that I made up for myself a couple of years ago.
- MANUFACTURER or SOURCE: Fieldline "6 in 1: Gander Mtn.
- WATERPROOF MEDIUM: Gore-Tex "Quiet Cloth"
- HOOD: Zips on
- INSULATION TYPE: Thinsulate: 200 gr. body & 100 gr. hood
- POCKETS - CHEST: 2 outside, 2 inside
- POCKETS - WAIST: 2 cargo, with hand warmers
- CLOSURES - WRIST: Velcro
- CLOSURES - HOOD: Drawstring
- ADDITIONAL FEATURES: Shell is 50/50 blend of cotton & polyester. acket/liner has knit cuffs & waistband and zips to liner.
- MANUFACTURER or SOURCE: Columbia "Quad Parka": Gander Mtn.
- WATERPROOF MEDIUM: Gore-Tex "Stealth Cloth"
- HOOD: Zips on
- INSULATION TYPE: Thinsulate: 200 gr. body
- POCKETS - CHEST: 2 outside, 1 inside
- POCKETS - WAIST: 2 cargo, with hand warmers
- CLOSURES - WRIST: Velcro
- CLOSURES - HOOD: Drawstring
- ADDITIONAL FEATURES: Shell is 50/50 blend of cotton & nylon Jacket is reversible with knit cuffs and waistband.
- MANUFACTURER or SOURCE: L.L. Bean "Maine Warden": L.L. Bean
- WATERPROOF MEDIUM: Gore-Tex
- HOOD: Zips on
- INSULATION TYPE: Thinsulate: 200 gr. body
- POCKETS - CHEST: 2 outside, 2 inside
- POCKETS - WAIST: 2 cargo, with hand warmers
- CLOSURES - WRIST: Velcro
- CLOSURES - HOOD: Drawstring
- ADDITIONAL FEATURES: Shell is 2-ply supplex nylon laminated to Gore-Tex and nylon taffeta.
- MANUFACTURER or SOURCE: Cabelas "Premium": Cabelas
- WATERPROOF MEDIUM: Gore-Tex
- HOOD: Zips on
- INSULATION TYPE: None
- POCKETS - CHEST: 2 outside
- POCKETS - WAIST: 2 cargo
- CLOSURES - WRIST: Velcro
- CLOSURES - HOOD: None
- ADDITIONAL FEATURES: Shell is 100% nylon laminated to Gore-Tex and nylon taffeta.
- MANUFACTURER or SOURCE: Brigade Quartermasters "EWCS": Brigate Q/M
- WATERPROOF MEDIUM: Gore-Tex
- HOOD: Zips on
- INSULATION TYPE: None
- POCKETS - CHEST: 2 outside
- POCKETS - WAIST: 2 cargo
- CLOSURES - WRIST: Velcro
- CLOSURES - HOOD: Snap
- ADDITIONAL FEATURES: Shell is 100% nylon, laminated to Gore-Tex and nylon taffeta. Price includes pants as well.
- MANUFACTURER or SOURCE: REI Co-Op "Thunder Ridge": REI Co-Op
- WATERPROOF MEDIUM: Gore-Tex
- HOOD: Zips on
- INSULATION TYPE: None
- POCKETS - CHEST: 2 outside
- POCKETS - WAIST: 2 cargo
- CLOSURES - WRIST: Velcro
- CLOSURES - HOOD: Drawstring
- ADDITIONAL FEATURES: Shell is 100% nylon, laminated to Gore-Tex and nylon taffeta.
- MANUFACTURER or SOURCE: REI Co-Op "Stormfront: REI Co-Op
- WATERPROOF MEDIUM: Gore-Tex
- HOOD: Zips on
- INSULATION TYPE: None
- POCKETS - CHEST: 2 outside
- POCKETS - WAIST: 2 cargo
- CLOSURES - WRIST: Velcro
- CLOSURES - HOOD: Drawstring
- ADDITIONAL FEATURES: Shell is 100% nylon, laminated to Gore-Tex and nylon taffeta. Zipper vents for underarm cooling.
- MANUFACTURER or SOURCE: Campmor "Technical": Campmor
- WATERPROOF MEDIUM: Gore-Tex
- HOOD: Zips on
- INSULATION TYPE: None
- POCKETS - CHEST: 1 inside
- POCKETS - WAIST: 2 slash
- CLOSURES - WRIST: Velcro
- CLOSURES - HOOD: Drawstring
- ADDITIONAL FEATURES: Shell is 100% nylon, laminated to Gore-Tex and nylon taffeta. Zipper vents for underarm cooling.
- MANUFACTURER or SOURCE: Campmor "Packaway": Campmor
- WATERPROOF MEDIUM: Gore-Tex
- HOOD: Zips on
- INSULATION TYPE: None
- POCKETS - CHEST: None
- POCKETS - WAIST: 2 slash
- CLOSURES - WRIST: Velcro
- CLOSURES - HOOD: Drawstring
- ADDITIONAL FEATURES: Shell is lightweight nylon laminated to Gore-Tex and lightweight nylon. Total weight is only 15 oz.
Ron Blackwood is a Shidoshi teaching in Irvine, CA. He is an avid shooter, SCUBA diver, backpacker & rock climber. He can be reached at (714) 559-1766 or by E-mail at <Ohoko@aol.com>.
BASIC KNIFE FIGHTING
David Lyle
When I first got a copy of Hatsumi's book "Knife and Pistol Fighting",
back in the mid eighties (I don't know if this book is available in print any
longer, as it is written in Japanese), I thought it a bit odd to mix knife and
pistol fighting in the same book. Sure, they're both one handed weapons, but certainly
that's where the similarities end? Fortunately, I continued training, and perhaps,
have gained a bit of insight.
Knives and pistols are the equivalent to us that the ancient battlefield weapons
were to Samurai. Knife and pistol fighting are an elevation of the seriousness
of a situation. Bringing a knife or gun into play is an acceptance of the deadly
nature of the encounter.
How does this differ from regular unarmed training? It shouldn't. There is
an old saying that goes: "you'll never see the knife that cuts you." This
alludes to the fact that a decent knife fighter will not let you see the blade
until it's too late. Thus, all of your unarmed training should recognize the
fact that a knife could be in your opponent's hand, and your taijutsu should
reflect this recognition.
A lot of instructors will tell their students that, no matter what, you're
going to get cut in a knife fight. In a sense, this is true. The next step to
that statement is continued training to avoid that inevitable occurrence. Unfortunately,
too many people hear that statement and stop there. In the final battle in the
Musashi book, Musashi's opponent draws his sword and tosses away his scabbard.
Musashi says "I've already won". The opponent had already decided he
would lose and not need to put his sword away after the battle. Don't stop training
there and decide you're going to get cut, instead learn and grow and decide
not to get cut.
In knife fighting, much more than in unarmed fighting, your taijutsu must
be very good to be effective. First and foremost it is important to get out
of the way of any attack. If a swipe is coming for your face, and you don't
move your face, it's going to get cut. It is only once you're clear of the attack
that counter attacks can be launched.
A mistake I often see is someone moving into the attacker and launching their
own attacks without addressing the knife. With a knife in an opponent's hand,
you must control that weapon before entering into the attacker's space, or you
will be cut.
It is with good reason that the front of Hatsumi's book "Knife and Pistol
Fighting", has drawings of the basic wrist and elbow locks: uragyaku, omotegyaku,
hongyaku, onikudaki, and others. These techniques effectively neutralize the
knife attack and allow you to proceed with your attacks.
The next time you practice any of those wrist or elbow locks, imagine your
opponent with a knife and see how effective your taijutsu is and where it might
need improvement.
David Lyle has been training in the Bujinkan since the mid 1980's. He is currently a part of the Washington D.C. group, and may be contacted at: <feline@his.com>.
GO-DAI BREATHING IN TRAINING
Christopher S. Penn
One of the most important aspects of basic training that ninpo reinforces, far
and above most other martial disciplines, is proper breathing. The Shoshinsha
Godai no Kata incorporate specific patterns of breathing as a means of instilling
the proper mindset in the practitioner. To summarize:
EARTH: slow, deep breath in, same deep breath out. Earth is stability, the
rootedness. Glaciers don't exactly move at jogging speed. Breathe in deeply,
feeling the breath and the energy of the body slowly moving around. Breathe
in, slowly gathering power, relentlessly and calmly. Breathe out and exude stability.
Nothing can phase you. Nothing can affect you. You are immovable.
WATER: slow, deep breath in, quick, expelling breath out. Water is the "power
of the wave". See yourself as the ocean, drawing away as you gather air and
then expelling air as a sea expels waves towards the shore.
FIRE: quick inhaling breath in, quick expelling breath out. Fire is fire,
consuming air and throwing heat, light, and gas out just as quickly. When was
the last time anyone has seen a leisurely fire? Fire burns quickly; you should
be as such, quickly using the air around you, and increasing the intensity of
your energy, your personal power.
WIND: Quick breath in, slow breath out. Wind is the element of surprise. Think
of surprise and resolution- a quick gasp, followed by a long sigh, as the source
of surprise dissipates into awareness. See yourself as a tornado, quickly gathering,
and then dissipating slowly, carefully, with measured breathing.
There are hidden aspects to the breathing techniques; as a new practitioner
to the art, I have had the good fortune of experiencing only one of the many
himitsu. If I breathe properly during training, following the breathing appropriate
to the technique or emotion I am practicing, I find the aggressor's attacks
predictable. I am not sure why this happens, how this happens, or even what
happens, but it does happen. A punch will come flying at my head and my response
almost always seems to be appropriately timed if I am breathing correctly. If
I'm not breathing correctly, I usually get clocked.
I am told that the breathing coincidentally happens to be very good practice
for meditation, for enlightenment, for higher Tantric practices, and I am certain
that more applications exist than those I am aware of. If we breathe right as
beginners, then we are certain to breathe right as advanced practitioners. Given
the legends that exist about ninja masters, how can we afford to pass up the
chance for an early start towards success?
The author, Christopher S. Penn, is a relatively poor college student and brand new ninpo practitioner. This is his first article for "Ura & Omote". He trains with a large tree in Buchanan Park, Lancaster, and hopes for a safe, happy, and prosperous New Year for all. He can be reached at <cs_penn@acad.fandm.edu> and heartily welcomes comments and especially corrections.
SELECTED KATA FROM DIFFERENT RYU
Sean Stonehart
Hello fellow Taijutsu Practitioners of the Bujinkan!!! Here are a few kata from the Koto-ryu, Gyokko-ryu, Kukishinden-ryu, Takagi Yoshin-ryu and Togakure-ryu. While many of you already may know or be familiar with these kata, I hope you will nonetheless find them enjoyable, valuable and useful to your continued study of Budo Taijutsu. Please bear in mind that these are presented here as *I* practiced them and wrote them down in my notebook. I very easily could have missed something and if I did, please do not take it as how Bud Malstrom and his instructors taught them. It is an error on my part and I accept all responsibility in any errors of transmission of technique. Please forward any comments, corrections, criticisms or suggestions to me personally. With that in mind, I hope you enjoy them!!
GYOKKO RYU KOSHIJUTSU
* Hanebi - Uke attacks from behind by grabbing the back of your collar yanking
down, starting to kick your hips out from under you. Place one hand on his hand
to feel where the kick is coming from. Once the kicking leg has been detected,
pivot outside of the leg and strike with a gedan blow. During the pivot, drop
your hips to lower you and start a ura gyaku. Stand up once the ura gyaku has
been started. As uke starts to resist ura gyaku, let loose the grip and switch
to omote gyaku, which you apply quickly to uke. As the omote gyaku takes him down,
kick him in the chest. Then pin and finish him off.
* Keto - Uke attacks with a kick. Step off 45 degrees and counter with a kick.
Uke sees the kick and snatches it back, striking out with an uppercut to the
midsection. Drop into ichimonji with gedan strike while dropping down. Lean
in with shakoken to uke's face and heel stomp uke in the solar plexus.
* Yubi Kudaki (finger crusher) - Uke grabs your collar from behind. Place
one hand on uke's hand. Pivot outside and jodan strike uke in the chest. Uke's
hand should be pinned to your shoulder by your hand. Grab the pinkie and apply
hon gyaku with pinkie.
KOTO-RYU KOPPOJUTSU * Setto (folding knockdown) - Uke does a lapel grab. Rock
in with reverse shuto to flat of biceps/triceps. Rock out with reverse boshiken
to uke's hip.
* Shito - Uke does a double lapel grab. Rake the arms with a double koppoken
heading down the forearms to the head. With the inside hand, grab the uke and
apply an omote gyaku to uke's outside hand. Turn on the spine with omote gyaku
twisting inside and down towards ground. The koppoken is pushing from outside
towards the ground at the temple.
* Ura Nami (inside wave) - Uke does a lapel grab. Jodan strike uke's arm while
sinking back into ichimonji, Rock back in on movement and toe kick uke's calf
just inside the shin. While kicking calf, punch uke in that the throat with
a boshiken.
* Koyoku (wing & talon) - From ichimonji, jodan strike in the pectorals and
ganseke nage uke.
* Shihaku - Uke punches twice. Strike both with jodan strikes. After 2nd strike,
fake in with a high stomp kick, step down and fudoken uke in the jaw.
* Kyogi - Uke punches twice. Defend from ichimonji and strike both with jodan
strikes. After 2nd strike, stomp kick uke's foot, lean in and punch uke in the
ribs. If uke doesn't fall, push down with knee punch to his knee.
* Kako - Uke punches twice. Strike both with jodan strikes. After 2nd jodan,
heel stomp uke's leading hip and finger strike uke in the throat notch.
KUKISHIN-RYU HAPPO HIKENJUTSU OKUDEN KATA
- Hidden(secret) techniques * Fuu-Uun - Uke punches in right then left. After
left punch, uke kicks right then left. Block all 4 strikes with Uke strikes, jodan
and gedan. After the left kick, uke steps forward and lunch punches with the right.
Step back into ichimonji* and catch the punch with crossed jumonji hands.** Slide
forward hand(right hand) down to elbow and grab shirt sleeve or skin at elbow.
At the same time, grab uke's wrist with the left hand. Step beside uke to the
outside. Apply onikudaki on grabbed arm and simultaneously kick the front leg
out from under uke. Twist uke while in the air. * - Left foot forward ichimonji.
** - Right hand in front with left foot leading. henka - replace omote onikudaki
with ura onikudaki.
* Ki Raku - same punch and kick sequence as Fuu-Uun, but replace the kick/onikudaki
with an osotogake after kicking uke in the groin with a shin.
* Kengi - same as Fuu-Uun/Ki Raku but after the shin kick, slide the front
hand to uke's wrist and turn the arm over. Step inside with left arm leading.
Line uke's arm over left shoulder, Throw using reverse leverage.
TAKAGI YOSHIN-RYU JUTAIJUSTU
(note... I missed the name of this Kata at the time of class) ***From a mirror
seiza position, uke steps up and forward with the right side punching with the
right hand. Step forward with left side slightly to the outside, catch punch with
right hand and punch uke with left in the jaw/chin, continuing across and grabbing
uke's opposite lapel. From there, apply itamijime with collar to uke, pulling
across left raised knee and take ori to right hand pinned across leg while maintaining
itamijime. Apply heavy pressure to itamijime and take ori, roll uke over face
down and finish.
*** OR Drag uke across raised knee by sawei nage-type move with ura gyaku
and pin/finish face down on other side of body.
TOGAKURE-RYU NINJUTSU
* Kubi-Suji Tonso Gata - Uke grabs from behind and starts to drag you along. Match
footsteps with uke until you grow tired of walking backward OR have uke off guard.
Step backwards into uke with elbow point strike. Drop hips and with opposite hand,
grab uke's hand. Step backwards into ichimonji & stand up while applying ura gyaku.
*** CRITICAL POINT**** When you step backward into ichimonji & strike the
uke with your elbow, your ichimonji MUST be low enough to allow his arm that
you grab to move freely over your head WITHOUT moving your head to one side
or the other OR moving his arm over your head. It must be a very low ichimonji...
not a gedan ichimonji dropping to one knee, but must be very low.
Sean Stonehart has been studying at the Atlanta Bujinkan Dojo for 3 years. A 7th kyu due to time constraints & financial constraints, he's received training from Bud Malstrom as well as his assistant instructors: Roy Wilkinson, Sean Gerety, Randy Sessions, Robin Marshall, Steve McLain and Steele Stewart. His primary training time has been with Bud, Roy and Sean. Unfortunately having been kept away from the dojo for time periods longer than he prefers(including NOW! :-( ...), he trains everyday for at least an hour either alone or with several fellow students. He may be reached at: <SStonehart@aol.com>
THOUGHT OF THE DAY
We recognize the truth by the sense of peace and quiet it brings to the mind.
GIKAN RYU RETRACTION
Ken Harding
The material I was given labeled as Gikan Ryu was nothing of the kind. I have
verified this in Japan. It seems this has been floating around for the past 2
years or so. The bright side is that I did find out for sure, and that I didn't
print the whole set. Enough people saw the material in Ura & Omote, recognized
it and e-mailed me with the correct identification. I thank those people for speaking
up.
The correction for the Gikan Ryu lineage, however, is from a reliable source
and I consider it to be authentic.
END NOTES
Liz Maryland
Happy New Year! With the start of the new year, I am happy to announce several
changes that will be occurring within the pages of Ura & Omote. These changes
will improve the newsletter's usefulness as well as facilitate its delivery to
our readership.
First off, the Seminar Listings will resume their monthly publication. I have
found that this makes it easier for people to have seminar information on a
more timely basis. Another feature that will be provided is that advance notice
will be given for certain seminars, such as the various Tai Kais, the Shadows
of Iga Festival, etc.
Second, the School/Training Group Listing will only be published in its entirety
quarterly. However, this listing will ALWAYS be available in its entirety as
a direct e-mail from me. The main reason for the elimination of the Listing's
bi-monthly status is that it takes up more than half of the newsletter! Additions
and corrections to the listing WILL be published monthly.
Lastly, Ura & Omote will soon be available as a direct regular MAIL subscription.
The cost has not yet been determined, but I will only charge for postage and
photocopying. Ura & Omote will always be available as a FREE newsletter via
e-mail. I am making the "snail" mail subscription service available to those
who don't have access to an e-mail account and must rely on a friend or relative
for the newsletter. It is also available for those people who are sick and tired
of formatting the newsletter themselves.
That being said, I hope you enjoy this month's edition and look for the aforementioned
changes in following editions. As always, I'd like to thank all of the authors
for their wonderful contributions to the newsletter. Because of them, we have
great breadth and scope of experience and knowledge. Please e-mail them and
let them know how much you appreciate their efforts.
BACKGROUND
This newsletter was started to connect budo/ninpo taijutsu practitioners from all backgrounds together. Ura & Omote's goal is to provide a forum where we can easily gather and disseminate information (both "obvious" and "hidden"), ask questions and, more importantly, get answers, and share experiences while living the art.
HERE'S THE STANDARD DISCLAIMER
We (the publisher and authors) are not responsible in any manner whatsoever for any injury which may occur through reading or following any instructions in this newsletter. Remember, these are martial arts techniques which may result in injury or death. Find a proper instructor wherever possible. Please consult a physician before engaging in the exercises described herein. Keep in mind that all articles herein are of their author's opinion/research and the publisher of this newsletter will not be held liable for any errors or misleading information. If you need further information on any articles, or if you have questions for the authors, please contact them directly. If there is no E-mail address listed, please E-mail the editor and your request will be forwarded.
Liz maryland is the editor of this newsletter. She is a graphic designer by trade and an information gatherer by choice. She trains under the guidance of Jean-Pierre Seibel at New York Budo, where she one day hopes to do a kata perfectly while her teachers are watching her. She is a vegetarian on a diet - yes, she is starving to death - and a struggling Buddhist. Her cats, Shinobi and Kunoichi, have calmed down this month, although they haven't stopped eating her telephone cord. While it's hard to have a sense of humor when you keep missing phone calls, Liz maryland manages to keep her tongue firmly in her cheek. She may be contacted via E-mail:<ashidome@usa.net>