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  • PHILOSOPHY OF BUDO | Budokan World

    The Philosophy of Budo Budo, the martial ways of Japan, have their origins in the traditions of bushido—the way of the warrior . Budo is a time-honoured form of physical culture comprising of judo, kendo, kyudo, sumo, karatedo, aikido, shorinji kempo, naginata and jukendo. Practitioners study the skills while striving to unify mind , technique and body; develop his or her character; enhance their sense of morality ; and to cultivate a respectful and courteous demeanour. Practised steadfastly, these admirable traits become intrinsic to the character of the practitioner. The Budo arts serve as a path to self-perfection. This elevation of the human spirit will contribute to social prosperity and harmony, and ultimately, benefit the people of the world. ​ Written on 10 October, 2008 by the Japanese Budo Association (Nippon Budo Kyogikai) English translation approved on 1 May, 2009 ©2009 The Japanese Budo Association

  • TAMURA NOBUYOSHI | Budokan World

    TAMURA NOBUYOSHI The body, core of the practice The major architect of the development of Aikido in France and Europe Writtenby Eric Grousilliat Tamura Nobuyoshi, born in 1933 and deceased in 2010, was undoubtedly the major architect of the development of aikido in France and Europe. Entered as an uchi deshi at the Honbu dojo of the aikikai on August 5, 1952, he stayed there until his departure for Europe in October 1964. He was a privileged partner of Ueshiba Morihei, particularly with the weapons, and served as otomo (assistant) during his trip to the Hawaiian Islands in 1961. 5th dan at the time, Tamura sensei quickly made a name for himself among Hawaiian aikidoka, who nicknamed him the “stone wall” because it was impossible to move him. Settled in the south of France for almost 50 years, he had the reputation of an efficient aikido, despite his small size, and while he taught two days a week in his Shumeikan dojo, he spent the rest of his time teaching in large workshops, often gathering 400-500 people, both in France, Europe, and also in other countries. At the time when he was uchi deshi, Tamura was described by his fellow students as a “carbon copy of the founder”, because gifted with a deep sense of observation, he had perfectly understood that in the world of Budo, one must be able to “steal the technique”. Tamura sensei’s credo was that the first goal of the practice was to order the body, i.e. to remove the useless, to adopt a correct posture, to pose the breath. After that, once the body orders, the mind follows. That’s how he understood the words of Ueshiba Morihei: “Aikido is misogi”. From his beginnings in Europe in November 1964 until his last training course in France in March 2010, Tamura sensei’s practice was in constant evolution, always trying to purify his movements, to find the right gesture. This concerns his practice of Taijutsu of course but also the practice of weapons and preparatory gymnastics, the junbi dosa. At the time Tamura sensei entered the Honbu dojo, the morning class began with Ame no torifune, and then the technical study came immediately afterwards. With the development of aikido to a wider audience, it was decided, mainly under the leadership of Tohei Koichi, to introduce Junbi dosa. Ueshiba Morihei also became older and was interested in different healthy systems. Tamura sensei said: “It is a tradition that existed in Aikido, at the time of O sensei. The Makko-ho, the health system of Katsuzo Nishi Sensei or the method of Kenzo Futaki (Misogi no Renseikai). O sensei would try certain things himself and if he found it interesting, he would ask his students to do so. He would say, “It’s good” or “It’s not good” (Laughter). He would make us do that, but he would say, “Stop if you feel something is wrong. I still do some Nishi sensei exercises every morning Tamura sensei introduced when he arrived in France, the junbi dosa learned at the Honbu dojo, starting with Amenotorifune, followed by taisabaki, tekubidosa, ukemi, breathing exercises, shikko, etc…they are often referred to as aikitaiso. It is a practice that is quite well known by aikidoka around the world and I will not dwell on it. However, it can be said that in accordance with the founder’s conception, Tamura sensei did not see these exercises as a kind of warm-up but as aikido. He said: “Practicing Aikitaiso is already practicing Aikido” Tamura sensei was a Budo researcher, curious about everything. In his book “Aikido”, he said: “To practice martial art, you study dietetics, anatomy, psychology, meteorology, astrology, geology, sociology, etc.”. For combat, these studies are essential, they are necessary. ” With this state of mind, his practice was in constant evolution, in constant research, especially in the domain of the body. It was therefore quite natural that Tamura sensei proposed to her students certain methods to both strengthen the body but also improve health. At a young age, he was already interested in the macrobiotic diet, meeting Sakurazawa Yukikazu, the founder of the method. It was through this method that he heard about aikido and met Yamaguchi Seigo. It was the latter who convinced him to become uchi deshi. Still in the prime of life, he first became interested in Jikyo jutsu, a set of 31 movements, combining joint gymnastics, breathing exercises and also acupuncture point pressure. Tamura sensei used to repeat movements 1, 2 and 15 after the complete series. At the time Tamura sensei entered the Honbu dojo, the morning class began with Ame no torifune, and then the technical study came immediately afterwards. With the development of aikido to a wider audience, it was decided, mainly under the leadership of Tohei Koichi, to introduce Junbi dosa. Ueshiba Morihei also became older and was interested in different healthy systems. Tamura sensei said: “It is a tradition that existed in Aikido, at the time of O sensei. The Makko-ho, the health system of Katsuzo Nishi Sensei or the method of Kenzo Futaki (Misogi no Renseikai). O sensei would try certain things himself and if he found it interesting, he would ask his students to do so. He would say, “It’s good” or “It’s not good” (Laughter). He would make us do that, but he would say, “Stop if you feel something is wrong. I still do some Nishi sensei exercises every morning Tamura sensei introduced when he arrived in France, the junbi dosa learned at the Honbu dojo, starting with Amenotorifune, followed by taisabaki, tekubidosa, ukemi, breathing exercises, shikko, etc…they are often referred to as aikitaiso. It is a practice that is quite well known by aikidoka around the world and I will not dwell on it. However, it can be said that in accordance with the founder’s conception, Tamura sensei did not see these exercises as a kind of warm-up but as aikido. He said: “Practicing Aikitaiso is already practicing Aikido” Tamura sensei was a Budo researcher, curious about everything. In his book “Aikido”, he said: “To practice martial art, you study dietetics, anatomy, psychology, meteorology, astrology, geology, sociology, etc.”. For combat, these studies are essential, they are necessary. ” With this state of mind, his practice was in constant evolution, in constant research, especially in the domain of the body. It was therefore quite natural that Tamura sensei proposed to her students certain methods to both strengthen the body but also improve health. At a young age, he was already interested in the macrobiotic diet, meeting Sakurazawa Yukikazu, the founder of the method. It was through this method that he heard about aikido and met Yamaguchi Seigo. It was the latter who convinced him to become uchi deshi. Still in the prime of life, he first became interested in Jikyo jutsu, a set of 31 movements, combining joint gymnastics, breathing exercises and also acupuncture point pressure. Tamura sensei used to repeat movements 1, 2 and 15 after the complete series. The Jikyo jutsu, which could be translated as the “technique of developing one’s own strength”, was created in 1916, under the efforts of Nakai Fusagoro ( / 1878-1931 ), as the first Japanese gymnastics for the promotion of health. Within the context of Budo, of course, improving one’s breathing capacity, flexibility and relaxation, muscle tone, is something of very important, in perfect accordance with the practice of the techniques. Regarding Jikyo jutsu, Tamura sensei said: “After doing the Jikyo jutsu exercises, I am instantly able to hold myself in a natural and relaxed posture, which is very effective when you are not feeling well. It’s difficult when you practice with a partner, but when you practice them alone, you become able to see inside yourself. As Tamura sensei became older, he gave up this practice for himself, but he always invited his students to do so. He then practiced several kinds of methods inspired by his knowledge of Chinese and Japanese practices, a series of self-massage to relax and energize or a series of stretches that were both complete and relaxing. The latter method was particularly useful for correcting the body’s posture, rather than forcing on the body’s muscles, the emphasis was on maintaining different positions. Chinese method of Qi Qong It was in the early 2000s, when I used to go regularly to the Shumeikan dojo, that sensei presented for the first time his method called the eight pieces of brocade, which is part of the Chinese method of Qi Qong. This was the beginning and afterwards he made some slight changes to the exercises. Far from the dynamism of Aikitaiso or Jikyojutsu, the eight breathing movements were slow, but also with great mental concentration. In this way, the coordination between movement and breathing was refined, and in this way, we became closer to the work of aikido. Tamura sensei described her evolution of the Junbi dosa as follows: “Before, I used to start with Ame no torifune. Then followed other educative ones such as Ikkyo undo. These are movements that O’Sensei practiced and are perfect for young people. The children also like them a lot. Now I’m older and more sensitive to my body. I feel that it is good to do this or that exercise depending on the moment and I change the preparation. I say it often, but these are things that I have discovered over time and that make me feel good. I currently practice a kind of Chinese gymnastics that I find very interesting. It’s a suggestion that I make to people. Everyone has to look for what works for them. You can do the exercises with a health perspective at the beginning but after a period of time, it should become a work of introspection on the body. If we really pay attention to each gesture, an exercise that we thought we were doing correctly will seem difficult the next day. The body is an extraordinary thing and we must learn to listen to it. Anything that is not natural imposes constraints on the body. Positions that may appear comfortable to us superficially are often incorrect and do not allow the body to function naturally. The most correct positions are the best for health. They do not use any force and do not tire, no matter how long they are held. If your shisei is correct, the breath is settled and the body is relaxed. That’s why kokyu ho exercise is extremely important. One finds there the same type of research as in zazen or yoga. Budokas should have the posture that yogis or Zen monks have. This work of posture, of shisei, constitutes in my opinion the basis of the bases. As long as the shisei is not established, it is useless to think about movement. It is something that I think is particularly missing in today’s aikido world. But the meaning of shisei does not only refer to an external attitude: a good form, a style, a good posture, but also, an inner force visible from the outside in its manifestation. The sword, forge of body and mind It is usual to say that aikido comes from the sword…this was especially true in the work of Tamura sensei. Everything, in his gestures, in his attitude, in his eyes was placed under the sign of the sword. Experiencing a technique from him was like feeling a cut. Tamura sensei’s father was a kendo instructor, trained at the Budo senmon academy (), and it was one of his friends who trained young Nobuyoshi in kendo. During the same period, he started judo. It is around 20 years old, after becoming uchi deshi of the honbu dojo, that he was initiated to iaido with the very famous Haga Jun’ichi, a formidable swordsman, pupil of Nakayama Hakudo. It was probably for a short period of time, as his tasks as an uchi deshi were very strenuous, but a passion for the work was born. Tamura Semsei ‘s lecture about bokken So when he started in France as an aikido teacher, he quickly realized that just working with the bokken and the jo, which he had learned from O sensei, made it hard to fully understand the real sword work, especially for a western audience. He therefore proposed the practice of iaido, devoting part of the training courses to this practice. In 1977, on the advice of Chiba Kazuo sensei, who is very involved in the practice of Iaido, Tamura sensei invited Mitsuzuka Takeshi, an expert from the Muso Shinden Ryu school, the last generation of Nakayama Hakudo’s students, to teach during the aikido workshops. At the same time, during the Shodan’s examinations , Tamura Sensei required the knowledge of the first four Iaido kata of the Muso shinden ryu school. Tamura sensei’s Iai As with the Junbi taiso, the practice of Iaido becomes an important part of Tamura sensei’s training. As a passionate person, Tamura sensei’s practice was in perpetual evolution, he tried out new things, keeping what he thought was useful, discarding the rest. The sword was at the heart of his practice, in his way of executing the techniques, in his way of walking, getting up, doing ukemi, etc.. At the end of the 90s, something pushed his practice further in this direction. He discovered the incredibly fine work of Kuroda Tetsuzan, met her, and introduced important changes in his practice, such as the way of making ukemi, holding the sword or moving while doing the techniques. For his own training he worked on the kata of iaijutsu demonstrated by Kuroda sensei, for his students he proposed to work on the first sword suburi presented by Kuroda sensei. Of course, Tamura sensei also proposed exercices with partner using the bokuto or the jo, but this was based on a rather simple but fundamental work, looking for opening, weakness in the partner’s guard, while avoiding offering it oneself. Again, a deep and profound work on the shisei, concentration, observation. There was no separation in his practice, Taiso, Buki waza and Taijutsu corresponded to the same study, a study on oneself. One of the most important principles of Tamura sensei’s sword was the absence of blocking. The sword does not make contact with the partner’s sword at any time, it seeks the opening in the guard and cuts directly into the center. Facing Tamura sensei, it was really hard to initiate an attack, at the slightest movement, you were “cut”. Similarly, with my bare hands, at the slightest grasp of Tamura sensei, it was impossible for me to move. On the contrary, to try to attack Tamura sensei was to immediately find oneself “cut off”, i.e. unbalanced without really understanding why.

  • BUDOKAN ARUNDEL | Budokan World

    88 Balham Road, Yapton Arundel West Sussex BN18 0JY BEGINNERS AND VISITORS WELCOME MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION GRADINGS CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT DARREN'S BIO ​ Darren began the study of Traditional Aikido on Thursday 13th June 1991 as a member of the Tokushima Budo Council International. The TBCI was set up as for the preservation of the philosophical and spiritualistic concepts of the Classical Arts of Japan by Kenshiro Abbe (15 December 1915 – 1 December 1985). During his time with the TBCI Darren trained with multiple teachers around the UK include Saito Morihiro & Pat Hendricks. It wasn't until 1995 he met Kyoshi Passmore that he first experienced iaido and karate at various Budokan events and he began training in iaido under Kyoshi Ansell in 1996. Darren continues to enjoy training train with both, with the latter under the auspices of British Kendo Association where he has been selected to represent the UK at multiple European Iaido Championships. Joining the Dai Nippon Butokukai (DNBK) in 1996 Darren had the privilege to attend the first 3 World World Butoku Sais in Norfolk Virginia (1998) and at the Butokuden in Kyoto, Japan in 2002 and 2008. These were led by the then Deputy Sosai, Jiko Higashifushimi, a cousin to Emperor Akihito. Apart from these events he has attended many European Butoku Sais and Rensei Taikais with the DNBK. At these events that Darren has had the opportunity to practice other arts such as DaitoRyu AikiJujutsu, Kendo, Judo, Naginata, Jojutsu, Sojutsu & Jujutsu. Apart from the Dai Nippon Butokukai events Darren has attended various Budo seminars within the UK as well as Belgium, France, Netherlands, Germany, USA and Greece. ARUNDEL DOJO Classes are held in a vibrant atmosphere where students benefit from some of the highest quality tuition available in the UK today. Disciplines KARATE - SHUKUKAI RYU AIKIDO - TRADITIONAL IAIDO - MUSOSHINDEN RYU ZEN - SOTO Chief Instructor DAVID PASSMORE 7 DAN KYOSHI Dojo Leaders DARREN WAGHORNE 6 DAN darrenwaghorne@yahoo.co.uk DAVID GOLDING 5 DAN catekize@msn.com CONGRATULATIONS TO DARREN ON HIS 4TH DAN WITH THE BKA ​ On Saturday 21st & Sunday 22nd May the British Kendo Association held their annual West Midlands Iaido seminar with a grading upto Yondan on the last afternoon. Being the first West Midlands seminar after lockdown it was a full house of 60 students led by Fay Goodman Sensei, Nanadan Kyoshi. Assisting her were 3 Rokudans all holding the Renshi title which included the current BKA Squad coach. On the first day the seminar was split in to 4 grade groups with a Sensei working with each group for 3 techniques before moving on to another group. This allowed all of the 12 Seitei-gata, including the specific Chakugan-ten (grading points) for each kata, to be covered by the 4 teachers. The second day the groups were the same but this time the teacher stayed with that group only. I was fortunate to have Fay Goodman Sensei. This time the practice was concentrate on the reiho and our grading katas which were notified to us prior to the start of the day. For Yondan this was 1 free choice of Koryu which I chose Shohatto and 4 Shitei waza (complusary techniques) of Ushiro, Sanpogiri, Ganmenate and Sougiri. The shitei waza are chosen by the Sensei on the course and they are different for each grade and seminar though occassionally they overlap. Anyone attempting Shodan and above much complete a written grading paper which consisting of 6 questions. This paper needs to be submitted in advance of the seminar and passed before you can sit the "physical" shinza (grading). The "physical" shinza part is also known as Jitsugi or practical skill. For an attemp of Yondan there needs to be 6 shinza-in (grading panelists) of Rokudan and above and you require least 4 votes from the panel to pass. The 4 teachers of the course and another Nanadan Kyoshi & Rokudan Renshi attended to make up the panelists. The grading took place in grade order, from the lowest grade to the highest. This meant I was last on! It not just the waiting for your grading it is also the wait after whilst the grading officer reviews the panelists notes to determine who has passed or failed. I hate waiting! Subtle celebrations ensued after the posting of the results and a lot of handshakes and well dones. For me it didn't end there. I spoke to all the garding panelists to gain feedback on my grading to help me improve going orward.

  • ACCREDITATION | Budokan World

    ACCREDITATION This page will hold all of the information headings required for accreditation of Rank and Title. It is directed to the person or persons making the recommendation for an individual to receive a Dan Grade Rank such as a Dojo Leader or Chief Instructor. In the event that a Dojo Leader is being put forward for a Certificate of Rank, it will require the additional names of two referees acting in support of their recommendation. APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATE OF GRADE PLEASE USE THESE HEADINGS FOR INFORMATION PROVIDED NAME OF RECOMMENDER GRADE AND TITLE DISCIPLINE (S) POSTAL ADDRESS EMAIL ADDRESS PHONE NUMBER NAME OF PROPOSED RECIPIENT OR CANDIDATE CURRENT GRADE DISCIPLINES (S) POSTAL ADDRESS EMAIL ADDRESS PHONE NUMBER TRAINING START DATE GRADING HISTORY GRADE DATES SHODAN NIDAN SANDAN YONDAN GODAN ROKUDAN CHICHIDAN HACHIDAN ​ RECOMMENDATION ​ PLEASE PROVIDE ALL OF THE REASONS FOR YOUR RECOMMENDATION Consideration is given to each of the following : - grading record as above, years of continuous training, technical skill prowess, accomplishments, dedication and service, attitude, teaching and instruction, heart, values and excellence in personal character. APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATE OF TITLE FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY RECOMMENDER WILL BE BUDOKAN IN ASSOCIATION WITH DOJO LEADERS NAME OF PROPOSED RECIPIENT OR CANDIDATE CURRENT TITLE DISCIPLINES (S) POSTAL ADDRESS EMAIL ADDRESS PHONE NUMBER TRAINING START DATE GRADING HISTORY GRADE DATES SHODAN NIDAN SANDAN YONDAN GODAN ROKUDAN CHICHIDAN HACHIDAN DOJO HISTORY TITLES AWARDED ACCOMPLISHMENTS ​ RECOMMENDATION ​ PLEASE PROVIDE ALL OF THE REASONS FOR YOUR RECOMMENDATION Titles are awarded to those who have made an outstanding personal contribution to the promotion and development of Traditional Japanese Budo, showing leadership in teaching and the maintenance of a high personal level of Budo skills over decades of continuous service.

  • BUDO KARATE SA | Budokan World

    DOJO LEADERS : Sensei Kim Heaton (4th Dan) – Pinetown – Westville and Bluff KZN - kim.heaton@mweb.co.za Sensei Tracy Staples (3rd Dan) – Kloof – Winston Park – Waterfall Area KZN - t.staples@telkomsa.net Sensei Joos Huyzers (3rd Dan) – Kempton Park, Johannesburg - jooshuyzers@gmail.com Sensei Eden Jackson (2nd Dan) – Scottsburgh and Umzinto Area KZN - eden@ubtex.co.za BUDO KARATE-DO SA Traditional Shito-ryu Karate Kelvin Daniels (6th Dan) started his karate in 1967 under the instruction of the late Sensei Vic Sykes. Following many years of training under some of the top karate instructors, Sensei Shigeru Kimura, Sensei Tekeshi Masuyama and Sensei Keiji Tomiyama to name just a few, he has come full circle back to his Budokan roots and has the great honour of continuing his training directly under Doshu Richard Salmon. info@highwaykarate.co.za The following is a breakdown of the karate classes that are available in the Upper Highway Area, Durban, Kwazulu Natal: Highbury Preparatory School in Hillcrest, Monday and Wednesday from 5.30pm to 6.15pm for juniors and 6.15pm to 7.15pm for seniors. Forest View Primary School in Waterfall/Forest Hills, Tuesday and Thursday from 5.30pm to 6.15pm for juniors and 6.15pm to 7.15pm for seniors. Budo Karate-do S.A. teaches traditional Shito-ryu karate and places great value on the numerous kata and their Bunkai that have been passed down over the years. Dojos are friendly and offer instruction at all levels and ages as well as hosting style tournaments during the year for students to participate in a friendly environment. Each year the style offers students the opportunity to take part in an All Grades Gashku, normally a two day event. In addition, Brown and Black Belts have the privilege of attending a long weekend training seminar (gashku) at a beach camp ending with grading. .. Trophy winners with Sensei Daniels 2020 ANNUAL GRADINGS COVID STYLE Unlike previous years, 2020 has given us many new challenges and none more so than keeping our students moving forward and grading them during Covid-19 lockdown. In the past our Brown and Black Belts were graded over a long weekend held at a beach resort (TO Strand) on the Kwazulu Natal South Coast. Unfortunately with Covid-19 infections on the increase together with the required protocols we had to down scale this year's senior grading and have it integrated into the same day as the lower grades grading. In my opinion, under the circumstance this was going to be as good as it gets with Doshu coming through and joining us for the day. Sadly because of the spike in covid infections Doshu and I felt that it had become far too risky for him to attend. In the same tone one of our sensei from Guateng who was due to fly down to attend also had to withdraw from his grading. We started in the morning with our brown and black belt grading which was run over three hours behind closed doors. Much to the disappointment for our grading candidates certain aspects of the grading had to be dropped because of the ruling around social distancing. This meant that we couldn't do bag/impact work, Hokai Kumite, Ippon Kumite or Ju Kumite. The main focus of the grading was turned towards Kihon, Combinations and Kata. At the end of the grading parents were eventually allowed in to attend the awarding of the grades. Overall and considering the long period of lockdown earlier this year the standard was good. It would seem that the Zoom Classes that had taken the place of normal training classes had worked. In the afternoon we ran a further two sessions splitting the white, yellow and orange belts into the first session and the green, blue and purple belts into the final session of the day. Most of the candidates grading were our youngsters who in a normal year would have graded in June. The excitement for them to be eventually grading was very evident and in most, the standard was way higher than I expected. Although the circumstances for the grading changed on a daily basis building up to the grading with even the possibility of cancellation , ultimately I believe that the day was a great success considering. Very good social distancing!

  • RESEARCH | Budokan World

    BUDOKAN BUDO RESEARCH Here we will publish schoLarly articles and academic papers from Aikido to Zen in all things Traditional Japanese Budo, that we hope will be of interest to both teacher and student alike. ​ All articles and papers will first appear on the Homepage from 2 - 4 weeks. After that they will be posted on this page under the name of the discipline or context. When a single discipline reaches 12 or more articles or papers it will be given its own page. ​ Just click on any of the links below to read more. (NB The views of the authors depicted in these articles and papers listed are for information purposes only) ​ Kindly support the work we are doing by using the DONATE button below. AIKIDO JUJITSU BIOGRAPHY OF MORIHEI UESHIBA REDISCOVERING AIKIDO AIKIDO - A TOOL FOR LIVING AIKIDO AS SPIRITUAL PRACTICE IN US AIKIDO AND THE I A F KARATEDO A SHORT HISTORY OF KARATE INTENTIONALITY IN SHOTOKAN KARATE BUDO KATA - THE TRUE ESSENCE OF BUDO THE JAPANISATION OF KARATE LEG TECHNIQUES IN KARATE KARATE TALK IN A CANADIAN DOJO EASTERN MYSTICISM IN BUDO BUSHIDO A PHD SUBMISSION ON BUSHIDO KENDO THE CONCEPT OF KI IN KENDO IAIDO THE SWORDSMITHS OF JAPAN THE ALMOST FORGOTTEN LINEAGE NAKAYAMA HAKUDO KYUDO HISTORY OF KYUDO AND IAIDO IN EARLY JAPAN JUDO JIGORO KANO UTOPIA THE WAY OF KATA IN KODOKAN JUDO ZEN A BRIEF HISTORY OF ZEN ZEN, HEALTH & WELLBEING A JAPANESE GLOSSARY FOR KARATE STUDENTS First they published A Short History of Karate. Now Michael Cowie and Robert Dyson are soon to publish another little gem this year. Budokan has been given a glimpse of their work and you can too by clicking on the image below. And its not that little either! Enjoy. MISCELLANEOUS THE JAPANESE PURSUIT OF PERFORMATIVE MASTERY INTERESTING FACTS ON HISTORY OF MARTIAL ARTS SUMO - ANCIENT RITUAL TO THUNDER GOD TEA CULTURE OF JAPAN & CHINA MUSA CHUGYO - THE WARRIOR PILGRAMAGE BUFFER

  • ZEN DESCRIPTION | Budokan World

    Zen has been described as a special teaching without scriptures, beyond words and letters, pointing to the mind essence of our being, seeing directly into one’s nature, attaining enlightenment. Zen is not a sect, but an experience. It is the practice of self-searching through meditation to realise one’s true nature, with disregard of formalism, with insistence on self-discipline and simplicity of living. The Zen spirit has come to mean not only peace and understanding but devotion to art and work, the rich unfolding of contentment, opening the door to insight, the expression of innate beauty and the intangible charm of incompleteness. It has been said, that if you have Zen in your life, you have no fear, no doubt, no unnecessary craving and no extreme emotion. Neither illiberal attitudes nor egotistical actions trouble you. You serve humanity humbly, fulfilling your presence in this world with loving-kindness and observing your passing as a petal falling from a flower. Serene, you enjoy life in blissful tranquillity. Such is the spirit of Zen. To study Zen, the flowering of ones nature, is no easy task. Paraphrased from Zen Flesh, Zen Bones by Paul Reps

  • OVERMATTER | Budokan World

    OVERMATTER SUCH SAD NEWS ON HANSHI HANS HAUPT It is with great sadness that we hear of the passing of Hanshi Hans Haupt recently. ​ He was a huge influence on Tenshinkan Karate in Japan and around the world and particularly Joe Bracone, with whom he is pictured here recently. ​ Kindly go Seichin Dojo page for moro info. BUDOKAN GATHERING Top left clockwise to the right. ​ Darren Waghorne 6 Dan receiving his Kyoshi Certificate of Title from David Passmore Sensei. ​ Mike Clapham with part of his group on the day just finishing off Ananko. New Shodan James Bryden working on his stances during the Karate session. ​ Toby Mellows at the beginning of the end of his Juji Nage with his friend and fellow Budokan colleague Keith Molyneux. The classical budo, or "martial ways" are not combat systems like their forerunner, bujutsu, or "martial arts"; nor are they sports like modern judo, kendo, or karate. They are first and foremost spiritual disciplines, whose ultimate goal, achieved through the most rigorous mental and physical training, is self-realization in the tradition of Zen Buddhism . Donn F. Draeger Classical Budo PRACTICAL MEDITATION WORKSHOP TRAINING THE TEACHERS Ptobably one of the most important workshops that Budokan has hosted in recent years took place in the Lymington Dojo recently. ​ For over 50 years Budokan has taught and practice ZAZEN using the simple method of SHIKANTAZA or Just Sitting in a traditional Japanese Budo setting. ​ It has proved to be of immense influence in self-discipline, improved attention span and the ability to concentrate for long periods of their Budo training, including their Zazen - or seated meditation. ​ Budokan students - whether still active or not in their martial arts - nevertheless in the majority of cases continue to practice their meditation regularly as they have found the benefits of meditation (which are well known) help them to manage their emotions as they have grown older in this mad, mad world we are living in today. ​ And this is why we are introducing an online programme to teach yourself Practical Meditation outside of the disciplined world of Japanese martial arts in your own home, with the backup and guidance of experienced long term adherents of meditation made up of the teachers and others attending the workshop. ​ Each participant was provided with a 48 page bound document to take away with them to support their experiences on the day and to help them understand the content in context. ​ Here are a few takeaways that have come in so far........ "For me one of the main takeaways of the Sunday session was, the importance of correct posture and the need to be aware of your posture during your meditation session and to self correct in order to keep a relaxed body to aid breathing correctly." ​ Firstly, as it was a class in how to teach practical meditation, the step away from extending the breath beyond more than a few seconds was interesting, however on reflection unsurprising. It has been many years since this was the focus of my practice and settling on a comfortable rhythm is certainly the key. ​ It feels very personal and I like how you have managed to give it quite a beautiful flow through your thoughts. I think you have put a lot of thought into how the content is constructed and what you have chosen to say and leave implied. ​ It's as simple as breathing, or, it should be! So, "how hard can it be?" We all breath sub-consciously but when we start to think about it things go awry. Getting back to the basics of simply just sitting and breathing was the aim. STRONG IN HAND. KIND IN HEART. Within Budokan our mantra is "Strong in Hand. Kind in Heart." (Kokoro ni Tsuyoi te) and was formulated by Budokan SA many moons ago. But what does this mean to you? For some time, this has occupied my mind quite a bit. So, here goes. "Strong in Hand. Kind in Heart" is a phrase that implies having a powerful, confident demeanour or ability to handle challenging situations while also maintaining a compassionate and empathetic nature towards others. This expression suggests that someone possesses both physical or mental strength, as well as a gentle and generous disposition. It reflects the idea of being able to handle responsibilities and difficult circumstances with determination and effectiveness, while treating others with kindness, understanding, and empathy . Comparing my thoughts on the subject to a few major, main line Japanese martial arts we will see a similar theme. For this I have chosen Aikido (AikiKai Foundation / International Aikido federation), Kendo (All-Japan Kendo Federation), Iaido (All-Japan Kendo Federation), Jodo (All-Japan Kendo Federation), Naginata (All-Japan Naginata Federation), and Shotokan Karate (Japanese Karate Association). Iaido (All-Japan Kendo Federation) It is a "Way" in which practitioners seek to train the mind and body through developing a spiritual appreciation of the relationship between life and death, movement, and stillness. Kendo (All-Japan Kendo Federation) The concept of kendo The concept of kendo is to discipline the human character through the application of the principles of the katana (sword) (Koken-Chiai) (KO = associate, KEN = swordsmanship, CHI = wisdom/knowledge, AI = means to love/care for) I have also heard Koken-Chiai meaning "through practicing swordsmanship with others we achieve the wisdom of understanding humanity". The purpose of practicing kendo To mold the mind and body. To cultivate a vigorous spirit, and through correct and rigid training, to strive for improvement in the art of kendo. To hold in esteem human courtesy and honour, to associate with others and sincerity, and to forever pursue the cultivation of oneself. This will make one be able: to love his/her country and society, to contribute to the development of culture, and to promote peace and prosperity among all peoples. Naginata (All-Japan Naginata Federation) To introduce ways of enriching peoples', live through the training and perseverance required in practice and developing manners, commitment, and a will to live in the individual. Training in naginata also develops honesty, integrity, and a sense of what is right. Jodo (All-Japan Kendo Federation) Learning and studying Jodo is in effect training your mind and body. What one learns is not only dexterity of movement, but also development of the spirit. The benefits derived from training are obvious, but the main ones thought to be of the greatest value are: (1) Develop Courtesy, Truthfulness, Sincerity, and Patience. (2) Through regular practice, the body becomes stronger and more active. (3) Through practicing the techniques, posture becomes improved. (4) You gain confidence and have a better sense of judgment in everyday life. (5) Overall, you will have better relationships with others. Aikido (AikiKai Foundation / International Aikido federation) The goal of Aikido training is not perfection of a step or skill, but rather improving one's character according to the rules of nature. Shotokan (Japanese Karate Association) The dojo kun is a five-point statement of principle for the Karate practitioner's conduct: (Jinkaku kansei ni tsutomuru koto) Seek perfection of character. (Makoto no michi o mamoru koto) Be sincere. (Doryoku no seishin o yashinau koto) Put maximum effort into everything you do. (Reigi o omonzuru koto) Respect others. (Kekki no yuu o imashimuru koto) Develop self-control. ​ To summarise "Strong in Hand. Kind in Heart. " , to me means the notion of having a balanced nature that combines strength, resilience, and assertiveness with compassion, empathy, and benevolence towards others. ​ Darren Waghorne Seasons Greetings Taijiquan, Kanazawa and Zen An interesting article on the relationship between all three by Dr. Wolfgang Herbert, Professor of Comparative Cultural Studies at the University of Tokushima, 5th Dan Shôtôkan Karate, Licenced teacher (Japan Wushu Taijiquan Federation) of Yang-style Taijiquan. OUR FIRST EVER UK FEMALE BLACK BELT SANDI GROOM pictured here with her three children was a wonderful Mum and the very first female to be awarded her Budokan Black Belt by Ray Ryan at a weekend workshop in Pembrokeshire in 1976. ​ Read some memories from her son Lee here courtesy of Dave Wills, our first male Black Belt way back then. ​ SO ITS NEVER TOO LATE TO SEND US YOUR MEMORIES OF YOUR BUDOKAN BLACK BELTS WHO HAVE PASSED AWAY. ​ PLEASE HELP US REMEMBER THEM. This workshop is also always devoted to taking an in-depth fresh look at the building blocks of our disciplines. This year the theme was Kokyu Nagare - meaning slow breath flow in time to slow or medium movement in a totally relaxed physical and mental way. So the Iaido group were given a close up of “knowing your sword” with all the primary names of each of the parts considered important. Nest up they were given a simple move that required them to perform each of the four building blocks of Iaido - Nukitsuke - Kerioroshi - Chiburi and Noto all in one slow with breathing move. And this was followed by an in-depth look into each one of the four basics of Iaido eventually allowing medium and fast movement to concede with medium and fast breathing. After going through the kata as a whole, the karate group had four sequences of Ananko selected for them which they went through slowly concentrating on sound stances and tsugi ashi - the feet movements mostly found in Sanchin Kata. The out of these four sequences just 2 techniques were chosen for a close up of them in total coordination and timing of breath, movement and stillness. The Aikido group were probably in the best place for this theme to be able to learn to synchonise movement and breathing of two people into one. It is taught primarily to students of the correct skill levels to learn to “copy & ride” the responses of their attack as a prelude to the practise of kaeshi waza - or counter attack knowing this can only be achieved using total muscular relaxation along with the creative imagination of knowing the required route to take to be able to apply kaeshi waza with little physical exertion required. It is this type of precise that illustrates that real power is an expression of soft breathing that allows the pure muscular relaxation required to bring the flow of energy to powerful fruition. After long hours of training it suddenly just happens one day and the most prominent question that follows is “Did I just do That?”. And you can train the brain body synthesis into doing just that more often as progress in this area takes place. The only thing that will prevent it happening is if there is a reversion to a default position of using muscular power once again. 50% OF UK ADULTS SEE MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS IN MEDITATION This finding is not new and reveals that people are prepared to use techniques found in meditation and mindfulness to assist them in cases of mild depression and anxiety. ​ And we at Budokan applaud that. ​ However, we see pictures on the right all over the place online encouraging people to try it out. And this posture does not look comfortable at all and comfort is key. It doesn't matter whether you are sitting on a cushion on a floor, on the edge of a seat, your bed, or kneeling on a stool. Your knees need to be below the line of your pelvis - to an angle of 5º/10º depending on your height, which as you can see from the diagram rotates your pelvis forward slightly. This makes the lower lumbar vertebrae a little more concave and the muscles of your lower back a little softer. Which allows you to raise your rib cage in a gentle upswing, making the lower lumbar even more concave. Without moving your shoulders, extend the head slightly forward and then backward until a gentle stop is reached with a natural lowering of the chin. Your thighs should not be at 90º to the upright body or above.

  • DOJO | Budokan World

    BUDOKAN DOJO THE HEART AND SOUL OF TRAINING There are thousands of dojo that practice Karate, Aikido Iaido and other traditional Japanese Budo or martial arts such as Kendo, Ju Jitsu, Kodokan Judo and Kobudo - mosltly small "houses" of martial ways. We would like to bring these dojo together via their Dojo Leaders in order to create and host all the content required to teach and learn traditional Japanese Budo in the manner in which they were originally intended, which has become part of our lineage. Including, should any dojo wish it, the teaching of the classical virtues of Japanese Bushido, with the practice of zazen or seated meditation. The OLINE LIBRARY will never replace the dedicated training required to acquire rlelvant skills in martial arts - but will serve as a complement to that effort as more teaching and learning takes place online, simply because it is more easily accessible at any time. It is intended that these DoJo Pages will also hold news, events, grading, social gatherings and views in words, pictures and vodeo of what Budo people, colleagues and friends are up to in the conduct of their daily lives wherever they are in the world. DOJO DIRECTORY RIO GRANDE DO SUL BUDOKAN HOMBU DOJO BUDOKAN SOUTHAMPTON BUDOKAN NETHERLANDS SHINSEI DOJO KODOKWAN JUDO ZAMBIA BUDOKAN JEFFREYS BAY AIKIKAI PRETORIA BUDO KARATE DO SA BUDOKAN IN NZ KYUSHINDO DOJO BUDOKAN ARUNDEL SEIISHIN DOJO THE ZEN HUT BUDOKAN LARNE DOJO KENYOKAN DOJO NZ BUDOKAN LLANGUNLLO GOJU RYU KARATE KARATE AIKIDO IAIDO ZAZEN KARATE AIKIDO IAIDO ZAZEN KARATE KYUSHO AND KODOKWAN JUJITSU IAIDO KENDO KODOKAN JUDO AND JUJITSU KARATE AIKIDO KARATE KARATE AND SELF DEFENCE YANAGI RYU JIU JUTSU KARATE AIKIDO IAIDO ZAZEN KARATE KOBUJUTSU KARATE KENJUTSU KOBUDO ZAZEN KARATE AIKIDO GOJU RYU KARATE KARATE AIKIDO IAIDO ZAZEN

  • LINEAGE | Budokan World

    BUDOKAN LINEAGE The Doshu, Ray Ryan, Teachers and Instructors of Budokan have been extraordinarily fortunate to have had access to some of the most technically competent Japanese and European teachers across many major disciplines for over six decades. All of them are proud to have had the privelige of training with these teachers whose own lineage stretches back to the Founders of these disciplines. With the deepest gratitude and humility we associate ourselves directly with them. KARATE THE INFUENCE OF THE FOUNDERS It was inteeresting to read the writings of Doshu when describing his visits to Japan with Ray Ryan and his time spent training with the "Old Masters of the different systems of the day, Tani, Fugiwara, Mas O'yama, Gogen Yamaguchi, Nakayama, Kase of JKA and many of other Senior Senseis and of course not forgetting my first great Sensei, Taniguchi Goju in Brazil". "I had the support and recognition of Tani 'Hanshi' head of Tani-ha Shukokai and Fugiwara 'Hanshi", who was head of the World Karate Union Teaching Department of Shukokai of Japan, OYAMA NAKAYAMA And those that followed... Kimura Kase Taniguchi Kanazawa. Gosen Yamaguchi Salmon Doshu Ryan MORIHEI UESHIBA Founder of Aikido SAITO SENSEI TAMURA SENSEI KISSHOMARU UESHIBA YAMAGUCHI SENSEI CHIBA SENSEI KANETSUKA SENSEI SEKIYA SENSEI ISHIDO SENSEI HIROI SENSEI A little history Shukokai (literally translated as "Way for All" or association of those who study together) was founded by Tani Chojiro in 1949. Sensei Tani started his formal Karate training under Miyagi Chojun, founder of Goju, whilst a student at Doshisha University, Kyoto. After some years, Miyagi Sensei returned to Okinawa and Sensei Kenwa Mabuni, founder of Shitoryu took over the teaching. In deference to his friend, whom he had assisted on his arrival in Japan, Mabuni Sensei only taught Naha-te at the university karate club. On graduation from university Sensei Tani followed Mabuni learning first the Shuri-te system and then ultimately the developing Shitoryu system. After many years of training under Mabuni as one of his most senior students, Sensei Tani received the certificate of succession, entitling him to use the name Tani-ha Shitoryu (the Tani sect of Shitoryu). In 1949 Sensei Tani, whilst still a high school teacher, founded his own school, which he called Shukokai. On the death of Mabuni Kenwa, in 1952, many of the senior students went their own way and at this time Tani Sensei adopted the name bestowed by Mabuni, Tani-ha Shitoryu - and with two other senior students, Fujiwara and Fujitani, began creating the world wide system, for which he is now so respected. Fujiwara Sensei died some years ago and Fujitani Sensei now heads his own organization called Myobukai.. Shukokai has been taught outside Japan mainly by three senior instructors, Kimura, Nanbu and Suzuki, between them assisting in the creation of a world wide recognition and respect for their style. Chief Technical Master of Shukokai was Shigeru Kimura, 8th Dan. Sensei Kimura commenced karate at the age of 16 under Sensei Tani. At 21 he won the All Japan Shito ryu Championship, and after winning that title for the second time in 1964, ceased participating in championship Karate to devote his life to developing the style of Karate now known and respected throughout the world as SHUKOKAI. At 34, Sensei Kimura was the youngest ever 7th Dan from an internationally recognized style and reached the rank of 8th Dan Hanshi (Master). The Legends YAMAGUCHI AIKIDO IAIDO JIGARO KANO Founder of Judo JUDO GICHIN FUNAKOSHI Founder of Shotokan CHOJIRO TANI Founder of Shukokai Ryu CHŌJUN MIYAGI Founder of Goju Ryu KENWA MABUNI Founder of Shito Ryu VIC COOK DAVID ANSELL YAMADA SENSEI

  • JULIE TULLIS | Budokan World

    JULIE TULLIS Julie Tullis (née Palau) (15 March 1939 – 6/7 August 1986) was a British climber and filmmaker who died while descending from K2 's summit during a storm, along with four other climbers from several expeditions, during the "Black Summer" of 1986. Julie was born to Erica and Francis Palau. Her early life was disrupted by the outbreak of World War II . In 1956, she began climbing near Tunbridge Wells , where she met Terry Tullis. In 1959, they were married and spent the following years running various small businesses. They also continued climbing, in addition to which Julie studied traditional Japanese martial arts, under David Passmore in the Budokan school, Tunbridge Wells. She occasionally practised karate forms in traditional hakama when climbing. Tullis met Austrian climber Kurt Diemberger in 1976, and by 1980 they were working together on lecture tours. In 1981, Diemberger hired Tullis as a technician for an expedition to Nanga Parbat , and their high-altitude filming career began. It would include, in the following years, expeditions to the North ridge of K2 and the unclimbed North-East ridge of Mount Everest . In 1984, Tullis and Diemberger climbed Broad Peak , and after more film work they went on an expedition to climb K2, in 1986, becoming part of the 1986 K2 disaster . Although Tullis and Diemberger finally made the summit on 4 August 1986, making Tullis the first British woman to do so, they were exhausted from spending several days above 8,000 metres; 26,000' (known as the death zone ). On the descent, Tullis slipped and fell; although Diemberger's belay successfully saved them both, it is likely that Tullis suffered internal or head injuries that began to affect her vision and co-ordination.[citation needed ] Arriving at Camp IV they were trapped in their tents by a storm that lasted for several days. All the trapped climbers deteriorated physically and mentally, lacking food, sleep, oxygen and, once the gas for the stoves ran out, the ability to melt snow and produce water. This, in turn, made them vulnerable to pulmonary or cerebral oedema , which in Tullis' condition would have been rapidly fatal. Tullis died on the night of 6/7 August (the accounts of Diemberger and another climber present, Willi Bauer, differ on the date) and was buried on the mountainside. * wikipedia More on her Japanese Budo life to come. ​ ​

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