What I have written below is from the European Chivalric tradition and is written by Sir Thomas Malory and is very similar to Nitobe Inazo’s Eight Virtues of Bushido.
This is the oath of a Knight.
I will develop my life for the greater good.
I will place character above riches and concern for others above personal wealth.
I will speak the truth at all times and forever keep my word.
I will defend those who cannot defend themselves.
I will uphold Justice by being fair to all.
I will be Faithfull in love and loyal in friendship.
I will be generous to the poor and those who need help.
I will forgive when asked that my own mistakes will be forgiven.
I will live my life with honour.”
Hope this is of interest
Best Wishes
Mark. Noble sentiments indeed. Ed
This is the oath of a Knight.
I will develop my life for the greater good.
I will place character above riches and concern for others above personal wealth.
I will speak the truth at all times and forever keep my word.
I will defend those who cannot defend themselves.
I will uphold Justice by being fair to all.
I will be Faithfull in love and loyal in friendship.
I will be generous to the poor and those who need help.
I will forgive when asked that my own mistakes will be forgiven.
I will live my life with honour.”
Hope this is of interest
Best Wishes
Mark. Noble sentiments indeed. Ed
Understanding on the subject of Qi-
This is the Chinese understanding on the subject of Chi or Qi, anyway here is a quote from DR Yang, Jwing-Ming’s book Simple Qigong Exercises For Health,” Imagine that your physical body is a machine, and your qi is the current that makes it run. Without the current, the machine is dead and unable to function. It is the same with qi in your body. For example, when you pinch yourself, you feel pain. Have you ever thought,“ How do I feel pain?” You might answer that it is because you have a nervous system in your body that perceives the pinch and sends a signal to the brain. However, you should understand that there is more to it than that. The nervous system is material, and if it didn’t have energy circulating in it, it wouldn’t function. Qi is the energy that makes the nervous system and the other parts of the body work. When you pinch your skin, that area is stimulated and the qi field is disturbed. Your brain is designed to sense this and other disturbances, and to interpret the cause.”
Dr Yang Jwing Ming also talks about the relationship between Chi or Qi to illness when he says,“ Many illnesses are caused by unbalanced qi. When this stagnation continues for a long period of time, the organs will start to be affected and may be physically damaged. As a matter of fact, as long as your sickness is limited to the level of qi-stagnation and there is no physical organ damage, the qigong exercises used for maintaining health can be used to readjust your qi circulation and treat the problem.
However, if the sickness is already so serious that the physical organs start to fail then the situation has become critical. In this case, a specific treatment is necessary. The treatment can be acupuncture, herbs, or even an operation.”
Dr Yang Jwing Ming also describes the causes of qi stagnation when he says.” According to Chinese medicine, you can become ill when your internal organs are weak and emotional disturbance upsets them. For example, anger can cause the qi in your liver to stagnate, which will affect the functioning of the organ.”
Here is something else I read in Dr Yang Jwing Ming’s book simple Qigong Exercises for health which has given me an understanding of what the Standing Stones in the U.K. Ireland and France are all about e.g. are we talking about acupuncture on the Earth? Anyway here is a quote from the book,” The Chinese believe that earth qi is made up of lines and patterns of energy, as well as the earths magnetic field and the heat concealed underground. These energies must also balance, otherwise, disasters such as earthquakes will occur. When the qi of the earth is balanced, plants will grow and animals will prosper.”
In acupuncture a ball of wax is placed on a needle and ignited to stimulate sluggish energy in the human body, and in ancient Europe at crucial times of the year beacon fires were lit across the countryside, and again are we talking about acupuncture on the Earth?
Hope this is of Interest.
Best Wishes
Mark (Ed. Once again Mark brings forward to our minds that which will benefit us all if we just think on it a while. Always worth reading, always a gem to take away.)
This is the Chinese understanding on the subject of Chi or Qi, anyway here is a quote from DR Yang, Jwing-Ming’s book Simple Qigong Exercises For Health,” Imagine that your physical body is a machine, and your qi is the current that makes it run. Without the current, the machine is dead and unable to function. It is the same with qi in your body. For example, when you pinch yourself, you feel pain. Have you ever thought,“ How do I feel pain?” You might answer that it is because you have a nervous system in your body that perceives the pinch and sends a signal to the brain. However, you should understand that there is more to it than that. The nervous system is material, and if it didn’t have energy circulating in it, it wouldn’t function. Qi is the energy that makes the nervous system and the other parts of the body work. When you pinch your skin, that area is stimulated and the qi field is disturbed. Your brain is designed to sense this and other disturbances, and to interpret the cause.”
Dr Yang Jwing Ming also talks about the relationship between Chi or Qi to illness when he says,“ Many illnesses are caused by unbalanced qi. When this stagnation continues for a long period of time, the organs will start to be affected and may be physically damaged. As a matter of fact, as long as your sickness is limited to the level of qi-stagnation and there is no physical organ damage, the qigong exercises used for maintaining health can be used to readjust your qi circulation and treat the problem.
However, if the sickness is already so serious that the physical organs start to fail then the situation has become critical. In this case, a specific treatment is necessary. The treatment can be acupuncture, herbs, or even an operation.”
Dr Yang Jwing Ming also describes the causes of qi stagnation when he says.” According to Chinese medicine, you can become ill when your internal organs are weak and emotional disturbance upsets them. For example, anger can cause the qi in your liver to stagnate, which will affect the functioning of the organ.”
Here is something else I read in Dr Yang Jwing Ming’s book simple Qigong Exercises for health which has given me an understanding of what the Standing Stones in the U.K. Ireland and France are all about e.g. are we talking about acupuncture on the Earth? Anyway here is a quote from the book,” The Chinese believe that earth qi is made up of lines and patterns of energy, as well as the earths magnetic field and the heat concealed underground. These energies must also balance, otherwise, disasters such as earthquakes will occur. When the qi of the earth is balanced, plants will grow and animals will prosper.”
In acupuncture a ball of wax is placed on a needle and ignited to stimulate sluggish energy in the human body, and in ancient Europe at crucial times of the year beacon fires were lit across the countryside, and again are we talking about acupuncture on the Earth?
Hope this is of Interest.
Best Wishes
Mark (Ed. Once again Mark brings forward to our minds that which will benefit us all if we just think on it a while. Always worth reading, always a gem to take away.)
Another great contribution from Mark. If only all people strived to live by a code of good conduct .....
Below are Nitobe Inazo’s Eight virtues of Bushido-
Righteousness
Be acutely honest through your dealings with all people. Believe in Justice, not from other people, but from yourself. To the true Warrior, all points of view are deeply considered regarding honesty, Justice and Integrity. Warriors make a full commitment to their decisions.
Heroic Courage
Hiding like a turtle in a shell is not living at all. A true Warrior must have heroic courage. It is absolutely risky. It is living life completely, fully and wonderfully. Heroic courage is not blind. It is intelligent and strong.
Benevolence, Compassion
Through intense training and hard work the true Warrior becomes quick and strong. They are not as most people. They develop a power that must be used for good. They have Compassion. They help their fellow man at every opportunity. If an opportunity does not arise, they go out of their way to find one.
Respect
True Warriors have no reason to be cruel. They do not need to prove their strength. Warriors are not only respected for their strength in battle but also by their dealings with others. The true strength of a Warrior becomes apparent during difficult times.
Honesty
When Warriors say that they will perform an action it is as good as done. Nothing will stop them from completing what they say they will do. They do not have to give their word, they do not have to promise. Speaking and doing are the same action.
Honour
Warriors have only one Judge of honour and character and this is themselves. Decisions they make and how these decisions are carried out are a reflection of who they truly are. You cannot hide from yourself.
Duty and Loyalty
Warriors are responsible for everything that they have done and everything that they have said and all of the consequences that follow. They are immensely loyal to all of those in their care. To everyone that they are responsible for, they remain fiercely true.
Self Control
Nitobe Inazo 1862-1933
All the Best, Mark.
Below are Nitobe Inazo’s Eight virtues of Bushido-
Righteousness
Be acutely honest through your dealings with all people. Believe in Justice, not from other people, but from yourself. To the true Warrior, all points of view are deeply considered regarding honesty, Justice and Integrity. Warriors make a full commitment to their decisions.
Heroic Courage
Hiding like a turtle in a shell is not living at all. A true Warrior must have heroic courage. It is absolutely risky. It is living life completely, fully and wonderfully. Heroic courage is not blind. It is intelligent and strong.
Benevolence, Compassion
Through intense training and hard work the true Warrior becomes quick and strong. They are not as most people. They develop a power that must be used for good. They have Compassion. They help their fellow man at every opportunity. If an opportunity does not arise, they go out of their way to find one.
Respect
True Warriors have no reason to be cruel. They do not need to prove their strength. Warriors are not only respected for their strength in battle but also by their dealings with others. The true strength of a Warrior becomes apparent during difficult times.
Honesty
When Warriors say that they will perform an action it is as good as done. Nothing will stop them from completing what they say they will do. They do not have to give their word, they do not have to promise. Speaking and doing are the same action.
Honour
Warriors have only one Judge of honour and character and this is themselves. Decisions they make and how these decisions are carried out are a reflection of who they truly are. You cannot hide from yourself.
Duty and Loyalty
Warriors are responsible for everything that they have done and everything that they have said and all of the consequences that follow. They are immensely loyal to all of those in their care. To everyone that they are responsible for, they remain fiercely true.
Self Control
Nitobe Inazo 1862-1933
All the Best, Mark.
Carrying a knife may forfeit your own life too. More good advice from Mark. If you have something to add, please use the contact page and send us your wisdom. Ed
With regards to facing a knife wielding assailant nearly every style of martial art I have trained in is teaching martial arts students to disarm a knife wielding assailant after the assailant has attacked. Even police officers will if at all possible use a Taser if facing a knife wielding aggressor and will only be reactive if it is not possible to be pre-emptive because of the dangers of being reactive against a knife and they are wearing knife proof vests and yet many martial arts classes are not teaching students to be pre-emptive against a knife wielding aggressor.
A person will stand a good chance of claiming self defence in a Court of Law if they are pre-emptive against a knife wielding aggressor who produces a knife and moves to Just over or within arms length.
If a person is in a crowded bar where the distance between them and the other people in the bar is under arms length and an aggressor produces a knife a person will stand a good chance of claiming self defence in a Court of Law if they are pre-emptive.
With regards to facing an unarmed aggressor the reactionary gap is the best approach e.g. (Moving out of reach of the aggressors fists and waiting for them to make the first move) for avoiding prosecution in a Court of Law, however this will only stand a good chance of working if a person can spot a situation developing at its early stages and it will not work in an enclosed space for obvious reasons.
Hope you find this of interest
Mark
There are many stories of great injustice on both sides of the self defence debacle. We act in accordance to what we believe at the time, any consequences are ours to live with (or die for) Choice is yours. Ed
With regards to facing a knife wielding assailant nearly every style of martial art I have trained in is teaching martial arts students to disarm a knife wielding assailant after the assailant has attacked. Even police officers will if at all possible use a Taser if facing a knife wielding aggressor and will only be reactive if it is not possible to be pre-emptive because of the dangers of being reactive against a knife and they are wearing knife proof vests and yet many martial arts classes are not teaching students to be pre-emptive against a knife wielding aggressor.
A person will stand a good chance of claiming self defence in a Court of Law if they are pre-emptive against a knife wielding aggressor who produces a knife and moves to Just over or within arms length.
If a person is in a crowded bar where the distance between them and the other people in the bar is under arms length and an aggressor produces a knife a person will stand a good chance of claiming self defence in a Court of Law if they are pre-emptive.
With regards to facing an unarmed aggressor the reactionary gap is the best approach e.g. (Moving out of reach of the aggressors fists and waiting for them to make the first move) for avoiding prosecution in a Court of Law, however this will only stand a good chance of working if a person can spot a situation developing at its early stages and it will not work in an enclosed space for obvious reasons.
Hope you find this of interest
Mark
There are many stories of great injustice on both sides of the self defence debacle. We act in accordance to what we believe at the time, any consequences are ours to live with (or die for) Choice is yours. Ed
Another worthy contribution from Mark. His words are valuable to any student that wishes to progress in these arts. Ed
(Qin na pronounced chin nah relates to joint locks.)
The study of Shaolin Kung Fu has enabled me to understand some of the Martial Applications hidden in the Tai Chi forms as Tai Chi in the West tends to be taught mainly as a holistic art whereas traditionally in China Tai Chi was taught as a Martial and a Holistic Art, however in modern China many Tai Chi schools only teach Push Hands Contest alongside the holistic side of the art but they do not teach the battlefield methods.
I was watching one of DR YANG JWING MING’S DVD’S and something he said in the DVD regarding Martial applications in Tai Chi I found very interesting. He said,” In Chinese Martial arts there are four categories of fighting techniques: Kicking, Punching, Wrestling, and Qin Na. Wrestling is designed to be used against Kicking and Punching. Qin Na is used against Wrestling. Kicking and Punching is used against Qin Na. Four categories mutually conquer and support each other.”
What I liked about the above is a fighter is never fighting a fighter at there own game thus increasing the odds of survival in a dangerous situation for example if I trade kicks and punches with an attacker who is a better Kicker and Puncher than me I am probably going to loose, and if I try and Wrestle an attacker who is a better grappler than me I am probably going to loose but if I don’t fight them at there own game I increase my chances of Survival.
Hope you find this of interest
Best Wishes
Mark
(Qin na pronounced chin nah relates to joint locks.)
The study of Shaolin Kung Fu has enabled me to understand some of the Martial Applications hidden in the Tai Chi forms as Tai Chi in the West tends to be taught mainly as a holistic art whereas traditionally in China Tai Chi was taught as a Martial and a Holistic Art, however in modern China many Tai Chi schools only teach Push Hands Contest alongside the holistic side of the art but they do not teach the battlefield methods.
I was watching one of DR YANG JWING MING’S DVD’S and something he said in the DVD regarding Martial applications in Tai Chi I found very interesting. He said,” In Chinese Martial arts there are four categories of fighting techniques: Kicking, Punching, Wrestling, and Qin Na. Wrestling is designed to be used against Kicking and Punching. Qin Na is used against Wrestling. Kicking and Punching is used against Qin Na. Four categories mutually conquer and support each other.”
What I liked about the above is a fighter is never fighting a fighter at there own game thus increasing the odds of survival in a dangerous situation for example if I trade kicks and punches with an attacker who is a better Kicker and Puncher than me I am probably going to loose, and if I try and Wrestle an attacker who is a better grappler than me I am probably going to loose but if I don’t fight them at there own game I increase my chances of Survival.
Hope you find this of interest
Best Wishes
Mark
Into a soul absolutely free.
From thoughts and emotion.
Even the tiger finds no room.
To insert its fierce claws.
One and the same breeze passes.
Over the pines on the mountain.
And the oak trees in the valley.
And why do they give different notes?
No thinking, no reflecting,
Perfect emptiness;
Yet therein something moves,
Following its own course.
The eye sees it,
But no hands can take hold of it-
The moon in the stream.
Clouds and mists,
They are midair transformations;
Above them eternally shine the sun and the moon.
Victory is for the one,
Even before the combat,
Who has no thought of himself,
Abiding in the no-mind-ness of Great Origen.
Sent in by Mark, from Tao of Jeet Kune Do and very much worth a read ... then understand ... then live by.
From thoughts and emotion.
Even the tiger finds no room.
To insert its fierce claws.
One and the same breeze passes.
Over the pines on the mountain.
And the oak trees in the valley.
And why do they give different notes?
No thinking, no reflecting,
Perfect emptiness;
Yet therein something moves,
Following its own course.
The eye sees it,
But no hands can take hold of it-
The moon in the stream.
Clouds and mists,
They are midair transformations;
Above them eternally shine the sun and the moon.
Victory is for the one,
Even before the combat,
Who has no thought of himself,
Abiding in the no-mind-ness of Great Origen.
Sent in by Mark, from Tao of Jeet Kune Do and very much worth a read ... then understand ... then live by.
An update on cross training.
My old Tai Chi teacher believed that it is important for a person to cross train in different arts because there are strengths and weaknesses in every style and through cross training a martial artist irons out the weaknesses by taking the best from different styles and they also grow as a person.
As well as believing in cross training for the reasons described in the above paragraph he also believed in building bridges between different arts and that all styles of martial arts have all got something to share and did not agree with egotism in martial arts where you get martial artists who say that there art is one hundred percent superior to other styles.
He had a great deal of respect for black belts who were willing to step out of there comfort zone and start off as a white belt in another art not only because it makes a fighter more rounded but also because it weakens the ego.
Unfortunately the Tai Chi club I trained with shut down before the first lock down and never came back.
My old Judo teacher who I have a huge amount of respect for was also a firm believer in cross training in the martial arts and here is a quote from one of the books he wrote,” Extend your horizons by the study of other martial arts and learn from them. Any martial art studied in isolation is sterile and its practitioners will never develop beyond a certain level, they will never experience the wonders of continuing to learn new technique, or new variations on established technique, and experiencing the changes within themselves which go with this accumulation of knowledge.”
Best Wishes
Mark Lonsdale
(There is an absolute and undeniable truth in what Mark says. If you are not exploring other arts then you will never truly understand your own. How can you? Ed )
******************
(There can be no doubt that exploring different arts brings better understanding of any single one. Ed)
Considering how a person can apply Bruce Lee’s Jeet Kune Do concepts to Martial Arts Cross Training.
Aikido is very effective against bearhugs, headlocks, strangles, chokes, double lapel grabs and other vertical grappling attacks and is also very effective against a person who has hold with one hand and is attempting a strike with the elbow, knee, foot or hand, but the ground fighting in Aikido is limited, whereas Brazilian Jujitsu specialises in Ground fighting but its vertical grappling is limited so if a person was to take most of there vertical grappling from Aikido and most of there ground fighting from Brazilian Jujitsu they would be following Jeet Kune Do concepts.
Karate is very effective against an Opponent who does not have hold of them and attacks them with kicks or straight punches, whereas Boxing is very effective against straight punches, right and left crosses, hooks and uppercuts, but there are no defences against kicks and grappling attacks so if a person was to add Boxing to Karate and if they were to take most of there vertical grappling from Aikido with the rest taken from Brazilian Jujitsu, and if they were to take most of there ground fighting from Brazilian Jujitsu with the rest being derived from Aikido they would be following Jeet Kune Do concepts.
Even though Bruce Lee sadly passed away all those years ago his ideas regarding Martial Arts Cross training still continue to make me think and to evolve in my own Martial Arts journey.
By Mark.
Considering how a person can apply Bruce Lee’s Jeet Kune Do concepts to Martial Arts Cross Training.
Aikido is very effective against bearhugs, headlocks, strangles, chokes, double lapel grabs and other vertical grappling attacks and is also very effective against a person who has hold with one hand and is attempting a strike with the elbow, knee, foot or hand, but the ground fighting in Aikido is limited, whereas Brazilian Jujitsu specialises in Ground fighting but its vertical grappling is limited so if a person was to take most of there vertical grappling from Aikido and most of there ground fighting from Brazilian Jujitsu they would be following Jeet Kune Do concepts.
Karate is very effective against an Opponent who does not have hold of them and attacks them with kicks or straight punches, whereas Boxing is very effective against straight punches, right and left crosses, hooks and uppercuts, but there are no defences against kicks and grappling attacks so if a person was to add Boxing to Karate and if they were to take most of there vertical grappling from Aikido with the rest taken from Brazilian Jujitsu, and if they were to take most of there ground fighting from Brazilian Jujitsu with the rest being derived from Aikido they would be following Jeet Kune Do concepts.
Even though Bruce Lee sadly passed away all those years ago his ideas regarding Martial Arts Cross training still continue to make me think and to evolve in my own Martial Arts journey.
By Mark.
Life is better if you are a good person. Read on to find out why. (ed)
The Similarities between Bushido and Chivalry-
The 400 year old Japanese text Bushido Shoshinshu (Bushido for Beginners) of Taira Shigesuke describes the rules and expectations that the Samurai are expected to follow and one of the things the text says is,” In the Way of Warriors, no matter how much you may treasure Loyalty and Familial Duty in your heart, without the Courteous Manners to express respect for your Employers and Honour for your Parents, you cannot be said to be in accordance with the Way.”
In the 13th century European book The Book of the Order of Chivalry the Author Ramon Llull describes Courage as the Knights primary virtue and promotes Loyalty as one of the ways a Knight could prove his bravery and the anonymous 13th century Poem The Roman des Eles states, Knights should demonstrate their Courtesy by never displaying boastful behaviour, envy, slanderous talk and greed.
The Bushido Shoshinshu of Taira Shigesuke says,” Now suppose there are Parents who are Obstreperous, Cranky, and Argumentative, who insist on running the house hold and refuse to hand over anything, who are Importunate, Inconsiderate, and Demanding, and on top of that Complain to others how Vexed and Troubled they are by the Poor Treatment they get from there Sons, thus Damaging their Children’s Reputations. To honour even such Unreasonable Parents as Parents, to take the Trouble to Humour them, to Lament their Aging and Decline, and take care of them Sincerely, without a bit of Negligence-this is the Sum of Dutiful Children.
When a Warrior with this Spirit (the Spirit that is referred to in the above paragraph) takes an Overlord as an employer and becomes an Official, he understands the requirements of Loyalty and Duty. When his Employer is flourishing this is a matter of course, but even when something unexpected happens to his employer and he has all sorts of troubles, a Warrior is still fiercely Loyal and does not leave his side.” And The Bushido Shoshinshu goes onto say,” There is no such thing as someone who is disrespectful to his Parents yet Faithful to his Employer.”
Rambaut de Vaqueiras (1180-1207) describes the highest expression of Chivalry in the poem (The Epic Letter) where he is talking about his friend Lord Boniface of Montferrat. In the poem he describes how Boniface never listened to Slander and how he showed Compassion to those in need and helped Widows and Orphans and the anonymous 13th century European Chivalric poem The Roman des Eles also teaches the importance of Generosity towards the Poor when referring to Knights and states,” they should give Freely, with Boldness and even Carelessness.” And this is also expressed in The Bushido Shoshinshu when it says,” However it may be among peasants and townspeople, a Knight who is a Skinflint is much Despised. That is because someone who Distains to spend money-which is abundant in the World-even for Worthy Purposes would certainly not freely give up his one and only life. Thus the ancients have said that a miser is another name for a Coward.”
The set of European Chivalric principles the Pax Dei (the Peace of God) expressly Condemned the Mistreatment of Ordinary people and the same idea is expressed in The Bushido Shoshinshu when it says,” Therefore, even if you are of low rank, as a Warrior you should not Abuse or Mistreat the other three classes.”
The Chief Vows of Knighthood are expressed in Stories From Le Morte D’Arthur And The Mabinogion Retold By Beatrice Clay when it says,” With pomp and ceremony did each Knight take upon him the vows of true Knighthood: to Obey the King; to show Mercy to all who asked it; to Defend the Weak; and for no Worldly gain to fight in a Wrongful Cause.”
A final quote from The Bushido Shoshinshu,” As Long as it is realized and accepted that Warriors must comprehend right and wrong, and strive to do right and avoid wrong, the way of Warriors is alive.”
Best Wishes
Greg Lonsdale
Knife attacks and defence .... some thoughts -
A number of years ago at a martial arts class I was attending me and another student kept going on about knife defences to the instructor because we were both concerned about rising knife crime on Britain’s streets.
In the end the instructor decided to prove a point about knife defences in a real situation and the attacker was given a felt tip pen instead of a practice knife with us all wearing T shirts.
Anyway one of the students was squared up to me with the felt tip pen and before he had the chance to attack I put him in a Jujitsu locking technique and I remember feeling quite impressed with myself. After the training exercise had finished the guy who I had put in a Jujitsu lock said,” Have a look at your wrists,” and I had a look at my wrists and one of my wrists had felt tip pen marks on it.
In a real situation I probably would have bled to death and that was what the instructor was trying to illustrate to all of us about knife defence in reality as me and all the other students ended up with pen marks on one or both of our arms.
This taught me a very valuable lesson because unless a person has spent years of intensive training on knife defence the chances are they are going to get cut.
My Martial Arts instructors advice to me and his other students is if we are on our own is to run if we are facing a knife in a street situation and to only attempt to disarm the knife wielding aggressor if escape is impossible because of the risks involved in facing a knife in a real situation (particularly if the aggressor is an experienced knife fighter). However if a person is out with there Wife or Girlfriend or their Parents they are going to have to stand and fight because there are other people to think about.
Greg Lonsdale
A number of years ago at a martial arts class I was attending me and another student kept going on about knife defences to the instructor because we were both concerned about rising knife crime on Britain’s streets.
In the end the instructor decided to prove a point about knife defences in a real situation and the attacker was given a felt tip pen instead of a practice knife with us all wearing T shirts.
Anyway one of the students was squared up to me with the felt tip pen and before he had the chance to attack I put him in a Jujitsu locking technique and I remember feeling quite impressed with myself. After the training exercise had finished the guy who I had put in a Jujitsu lock said,” Have a look at your wrists,” and I had a look at my wrists and one of my wrists had felt tip pen marks on it.
In a real situation I probably would have bled to death and that was what the instructor was trying to illustrate to all of us about knife defence in reality as me and all the other students ended up with pen marks on one or both of our arms.
This taught me a very valuable lesson because unless a person has spent years of intensive training on knife defence the chances are they are going to get cut.
My Martial Arts instructors advice to me and his other students is if we are on our own is to run if we are facing a knife in a street situation and to only attempt to disarm the knife wielding aggressor if escape is impossible because of the risks involved in facing a knife in a real situation (particularly if the aggressor is an experienced knife fighter). However if a person is out with there Wife or Girlfriend or their Parents they are going to have to stand and fight because there are other people to think about.
Greg Lonsdale
Another timely story which might help you when your own hour of need arrives ...... Ed.
Over the years I have trained in different martial arts, and in so called self defence drills against multiple attackers in martial arts classes I have attended the attackers will be attacking one at a time like they do in the martial art movies.
When I was a twenty year old lad I was in a pub toilet and more than one thug attacked this young lad without any provocation and they didn’t attack one at a time like they do in the movies they all attacked at once after one of the thugs had head butted this young lad in the nose, and this poor young lad was kicked around on the ground like a football.
I remember coming out of the toilet shaking like a leaf and telling one of the Bouncers what was happening to the young lad and he said to me,” Don’t worry I’ll sort it out,” and he went into the toilet and gave the thugs who were kicking this lad around on the floor a dam good hiding and then the Bouncer came out of the toilet casually and straightened out his bow tie and then the ambulance arrived, and after that incident I started training in martial arts later on that year.
In the time of the Samurai they were teaching what worked in a real situation as there lives depended on it but sadly many martial arts clubs today are not teaching what works in a real situation.
In a real situation if a person is facing more than one opponent and escape is impossible the only option is to attack first and to keep attacking until the aggressors are out of action.
When I was a young man I wasn’t a trouble maker but after training in martial arts for a time I had what was referred to in Rocky 3 as,” The eye of the Tiger,” but I don’t have that killer instinct about me any more in my martial arts classes or in everyday life, instead I have this gentleness and humbleness about me. Maybe I am just getting soft in my old age.
Greg.
Over the years I have trained in different martial arts, and in so called self defence drills against multiple attackers in martial arts classes I have attended the attackers will be attacking one at a time like they do in the martial art movies.
When I was a twenty year old lad I was in a pub toilet and more than one thug attacked this young lad without any provocation and they didn’t attack one at a time like they do in the movies they all attacked at once after one of the thugs had head butted this young lad in the nose, and this poor young lad was kicked around on the ground like a football.
I remember coming out of the toilet shaking like a leaf and telling one of the Bouncers what was happening to the young lad and he said to me,” Don’t worry I’ll sort it out,” and he went into the toilet and gave the thugs who were kicking this lad around on the floor a dam good hiding and then the Bouncer came out of the toilet casually and straightened out his bow tie and then the ambulance arrived, and after that incident I started training in martial arts later on that year.
In the time of the Samurai they were teaching what worked in a real situation as there lives depended on it but sadly many martial arts clubs today are not teaching what works in a real situation.
In a real situation if a person is facing more than one opponent and escape is impossible the only option is to attack first and to keep attacking until the aggressors are out of action.
When I was a young man I wasn’t a trouble maker but after training in martial arts for a time I had what was referred to in Rocky 3 as,” The eye of the Tiger,” but I don’t have that killer instinct about me any more in my martial arts classes or in everyday life, instead I have this gentleness and humbleness about me. Maybe I am just getting soft in my old age.
Greg.
A timely reminder about self defence by Greg.
The media is filled these days with violent crime. How prepared are you for it?
When I worked for the NHS I did the Conflict Resolution Course. The Course was brought in because of the increasing amounts of Violence that Hospital workers are facing in the Workplace. The course teaches how to behave when confronted by an Aggressor.
Warning Signs that Violence may Occur Danger Signs that Violence may Occur
The other person is being verbally abusive. They throw down a verbal challenge to fight.
Direct, prolonged eye contact. The Stance moves from square to sideways.
The person stands tall. They move towards their intended victim.
When confronted by an aggressor the course teaches a person to break eye contact but still to look at the other person and to keep their distance when talking to the other person and to try and find a peaceful solution to the situation e.g. if they are stood 6 feet away from me I do not stand close to them and if they are stood close to me I move away from them when I see the Warning Signs so I am out of reach of the other persons hands (the Conflict Resolution Course called this distance the reactionary gap). If I have moved away from the aggressor and the aggressor moves towards me I move away from them making sure that I maintain that distance e.g. out of reach of their hands that way if the situation turns violent and the aggressor simultaneously lunges forward and attacks me with a punch there is more chance of me being able to defend against a punch. If I do not maintain a safe gap in a street situation I stand a very good chance of being hit and if I fall to the ground after being hit I stand a very good chance of being kicked around like a football. Martial arts schools that believe in being reactive as opposed to pre emptive need to be teaching this stuff (the retreating footwork that is taught in Boxing is very useful for those who believe in waiting for the aggressor to make the first move). The approach used by street fighters is if an aggressor invades your personal space is to attack first however this approach could get a person into a lot of trouble with the police unless the aggressor is holding a knife in their hand. However one problem with moving out of reach of the aggressors hands in a confrontational situation is if a person is facing an aggressor in a crowded bar for the simple reason a person has not got the room to move away.
Many years ago as a twenty one year old after roughly one year’s training in Judo and Jujitsu I was at a cash point late at night and two men approached me and demanded my card and my pin number. I managed to back those two men down verbally. I then got into my van and my hands were shaking like a leaf and I could barely drive and I could not even talk properly because my voice had gone all squeaky. Sadly very few modern martial arts clubs are preparing their students for reality in a self Defense situation.
Greg Lonsdale
The media is filled these days with violent crime. How prepared are you for it?
When I worked for the NHS I did the Conflict Resolution Course. The Course was brought in because of the increasing amounts of Violence that Hospital workers are facing in the Workplace. The course teaches how to behave when confronted by an Aggressor.
Warning Signs that Violence may Occur Danger Signs that Violence may Occur
The other person is being verbally abusive. They throw down a verbal challenge to fight.
Direct, prolonged eye contact. The Stance moves from square to sideways.
The person stands tall. They move towards their intended victim.
When confronted by an aggressor the course teaches a person to break eye contact but still to look at the other person and to keep their distance when talking to the other person and to try and find a peaceful solution to the situation e.g. if they are stood 6 feet away from me I do not stand close to them and if they are stood close to me I move away from them when I see the Warning Signs so I am out of reach of the other persons hands (the Conflict Resolution Course called this distance the reactionary gap). If I have moved away from the aggressor and the aggressor moves towards me I move away from them making sure that I maintain that distance e.g. out of reach of their hands that way if the situation turns violent and the aggressor simultaneously lunges forward and attacks me with a punch there is more chance of me being able to defend against a punch. If I do not maintain a safe gap in a street situation I stand a very good chance of being hit and if I fall to the ground after being hit I stand a very good chance of being kicked around like a football. Martial arts schools that believe in being reactive as opposed to pre emptive need to be teaching this stuff (the retreating footwork that is taught in Boxing is very useful for those who believe in waiting for the aggressor to make the first move). The approach used by street fighters is if an aggressor invades your personal space is to attack first however this approach could get a person into a lot of trouble with the police unless the aggressor is holding a knife in their hand. However one problem with moving out of reach of the aggressors hands in a confrontational situation is if a person is facing an aggressor in a crowded bar for the simple reason a person has not got the room to move away.
Many years ago as a twenty one year old after roughly one year’s training in Judo and Jujitsu I was at a cash point late at night and two men approached me and demanded my card and my pin number. I managed to back those two men down verbally. I then got into my van and my hands were shaking like a leaf and I could barely drive and I could not even talk properly because my voice had gone all squeaky. Sadly very few modern martial arts clubs are preparing their students for reality in a self Defense situation.
Greg Lonsdale
Something to share.
Many Kung Fu Masters in China practice Tai Chi and in The Shaolin Temple the monks practice Qigong Moving Meditation for Health as well as Kung Fu. I have a great love and respect for all the different styles of martial arts the different martial arts are like tea they are all good but they all have their own distinctive flavour.
Morihei Ueshiba one of Japans Greatest martial artists says in his book (The Art of Peace)-
“ The Way of a Warrior is based on humanity, love, and sincerity, the heart of martial valour is true bravery, wisdom, love, and friendship. Emphasis on the physical aspects of Warrior-ship is futile, for the power of the body is always limited.”
A pro boxer is very dangerous with his fists. A good Kung Fu fighter has the ability to inflict serious injury with kicks. A Pro wrestler, Aikido, Judo or JUJITSU Fighter has the ability to throw a man to the ground with the possibility of inflicting serious injury and the ability to crank on joint locks and break limbs The way of the warrior has to be based on love and compassion otherwise a warrior becomes a savage. All fighting arts should lead to Love because there is only one mount Fuji and its summit is Love, but sadly many martial arts clubs in the modern western world are teaching fighting and are not teaching people that violence should only be a last resort. If a person sees a situation developing they should try and deal with that situation peacefully but sadly this is not being taught in many martial arts clubs in the west. When I see the way martial arts are being taught in many modern western martial arts clubs it deeply saddens me as I can remember how things used to be. Sadly egotism is being actively encouraged in many martial clubs in the west today. I believe that Martial arts should be about creating better people.
Morihei Ueshiba was an ex Serviceman who had served in war and had seen friends die and had killed enemy soldiers in war. Morihei was an infantryman in the Russo-Japanese War. Even as an old man he could easily defeat men my age and younger and yet he was a man of peace and he believed that all life is sacred. Morihei believed that if one is attacked that one must be able to defeat a person without causing them permanent damage. Many years ago as a younger man I trained with men who had been involved in war and yet these men had a great humility towards human life. They were men who believed that a person should try and find a peaceful solution to a confrontational situation and that violence should only ever be used if the other person is committed to attacking and that a person should never use excessive force when attacked e.g. a person should not use a sledge hammer to crack a walnut. These men I am talking about were also gentlemen.
Most of the Martial Arts Masters in the Orient regardless of style all have one thing in common and that is humility and compassion. One of the big problems with the west particularly in today’s culture is that most people’s minds are led by the body instead of being led by the spirit (the moral) which has its roots in the Mind (sadly this is actively encouraged by modern western society). When a person’s mind is led by the spirit (the shen) that is when a person starts to develop real power because the mind directs the chi within the body and the spirit is the control tower of chi within the body. When a person’s mind is led by the body the mind will not be able to direct the chi as effectively and the spirit which is the control tower of chi which has its root in the mind will not function as it should. When a person’s mind is led by the spirit they minimise the risk of developing a physical illness or a mental illness also a person becomes a better human being e.g. less selfish and less greedy and more compassionate. When meditation is performed correctly it stills the mind thus enabling the mind which directs the chi to work as it should and the spirit which is the control tower of chi to work as it should. The human body would not work without Chi for example I decide to pick up a pencil the Chi (Bio Magnetic Electricity} carries the message from my brain through the nervous system to my hand which picks up the pencil.
When sat upright comfortably in a chair keep the mind focused on One inch below the belly button and breath in and out deeply and slowly constantly focusing on the point one inch below the belly button (Practice this for 10 minutes at a time) this exercise will bring Heaven Ki and Earth Ki within the body into perfect balance.
Greg Lonsdale
7 years part time in Judo, roughly 3 years part time in Chen Style Tai Chi , and roughly eight years studying part time in Yang Style Tai Chi and I am still training in this art, and Roughly One year studying part time in Wing Chun Kung Fu, and as a much younger man over two years of part time Jujitsu practice, and I also trained in Boxing as a school boy. In addition to these things I am also a Reiki Master.
Many Kung Fu Masters in China practice Tai Chi and in The Shaolin Temple the monks practice Qigong Moving Meditation for Health as well as Kung Fu. I have a great love and respect for all the different styles of martial arts the different martial arts are like tea they are all good but they all have their own distinctive flavour.
Morihei Ueshiba one of Japans Greatest martial artists says in his book (The Art of Peace)-
“ The Way of a Warrior is based on humanity, love, and sincerity, the heart of martial valour is true bravery, wisdom, love, and friendship. Emphasis on the physical aspects of Warrior-ship is futile, for the power of the body is always limited.”
A pro boxer is very dangerous with his fists. A good Kung Fu fighter has the ability to inflict serious injury with kicks. A Pro wrestler, Aikido, Judo or JUJITSU Fighter has the ability to throw a man to the ground with the possibility of inflicting serious injury and the ability to crank on joint locks and break limbs The way of the warrior has to be based on love and compassion otherwise a warrior becomes a savage. All fighting arts should lead to Love because there is only one mount Fuji and its summit is Love, but sadly many martial arts clubs in the modern western world are teaching fighting and are not teaching people that violence should only be a last resort. If a person sees a situation developing they should try and deal with that situation peacefully but sadly this is not being taught in many martial arts clubs in the west. When I see the way martial arts are being taught in many modern western martial arts clubs it deeply saddens me as I can remember how things used to be. Sadly egotism is being actively encouraged in many martial clubs in the west today. I believe that Martial arts should be about creating better people.
Morihei Ueshiba was an ex Serviceman who had served in war and had seen friends die and had killed enemy soldiers in war. Morihei was an infantryman in the Russo-Japanese War. Even as an old man he could easily defeat men my age and younger and yet he was a man of peace and he believed that all life is sacred. Morihei believed that if one is attacked that one must be able to defeat a person without causing them permanent damage. Many years ago as a younger man I trained with men who had been involved in war and yet these men had a great humility towards human life. They were men who believed that a person should try and find a peaceful solution to a confrontational situation and that violence should only ever be used if the other person is committed to attacking and that a person should never use excessive force when attacked e.g. a person should not use a sledge hammer to crack a walnut. These men I am talking about were also gentlemen.
Most of the Martial Arts Masters in the Orient regardless of style all have one thing in common and that is humility and compassion. One of the big problems with the west particularly in today’s culture is that most people’s minds are led by the body instead of being led by the spirit (the moral) which has its roots in the Mind (sadly this is actively encouraged by modern western society). When a person’s mind is led by the spirit (the shen) that is when a person starts to develop real power because the mind directs the chi within the body and the spirit is the control tower of chi within the body. When a person’s mind is led by the body the mind will not be able to direct the chi as effectively and the spirit which is the control tower of chi which has its root in the mind will not function as it should. When a person’s mind is led by the spirit they minimise the risk of developing a physical illness or a mental illness also a person becomes a better human being e.g. less selfish and less greedy and more compassionate. When meditation is performed correctly it stills the mind thus enabling the mind which directs the chi to work as it should and the spirit which is the control tower of chi to work as it should. The human body would not work without Chi for example I decide to pick up a pencil the Chi (Bio Magnetic Electricity} carries the message from my brain through the nervous system to my hand which picks up the pencil.
When sat upright comfortably in a chair keep the mind focused on One inch below the belly button and breath in and out deeply and slowly constantly focusing on the point one inch below the belly button (Practice this for 10 minutes at a time) this exercise will bring Heaven Ki and Earth Ki within the body into perfect balance.
Greg Lonsdale
7 years part time in Judo, roughly 3 years part time in Chen Style Tai Chi , and roughly eight years studying part time in Yang Style Tai Chi and I am still training in this art, and Roughly One year studying part time in Wing Chun Kung Fu, and as a much younger man over two years of part time Jujitsu practice, and I also trained in Boxing as a school boy. In addition to these things I am also a Reiki Master.
How is your Aikido in everyday life?
In fact, do you avail yourself of your Aikido skills in your daily life at all?
Do you ever find yourself in pointless conflict? Stuck in an argument?
Try Luke Archer's excellent advice on his web site Verbal Aikido
Luke's second book 'Verbal Aikido Orange Belt' is now out !
Why do you practise Aikido, is it so that you can confront an enemy and win? The one element you never train for on the mat, and I would submit is more likely to save your life than not, is to prevent the attack in the first place.
Talk them out of it. Why fight with those who you can befriend instead?
Your Sensei would be a bit surprised if as Uke moves in to an attack, you speak to them and say, 'hang on a minute, let's see if we can resolve this peaceably' 'What is it that is upsetting you so much?'
Yup, that's one bit of training in Aikido that you will rarely find on the mat and yet in real life a verbal attack is most likely to occur first - possibly followed by a physical one.
Look at Luke Archer's web site and consider his book.
Could be a life saver . . . I can guarantee it will be a life changer.
site editor, Richard.
'In your search for techniques never assume that your body will operate optimally -
therein lies the understanding to the greatest technique of all.'
therein lies the understanding to the greatest technique of all.'
If you want to know the value of weapons in Aikido then read this,
Some thoughts on the Aiki Jo by Autrelle Holland
An enlightening article in the Aikido Journal
Some thoughts on the Aiki Jo by Autrelle Holland
An enlightening article in the Aikido Journal
Are weapons a part of your training experience?
O-Sensei demonstrating Aiki Ken & Jo inside Aikikai Hombu Dojo
View some valid weapons history in Aikido Journal
(Opens in a new window)
O-Sensei demonstrating Aiki Ken & Jo inside Aikikai Hombu Dojo
View some valid weapons history in Aikido Journal
(Opens in a new window)
For women only -
an article by Andrea Harkins.
Andrea's ideas and writing are always worthy of your time.
Martial arts woman
an article by Andrea Harkins.
Andrea's ideas and writing are always worthy of your time.
Martial arts woman
Martial arts woman . . . for women's eyes only !
Martial arts saved me from being grumpy, disappointed, lonely, inconsiderate, and unhappy. They saved me from being complacent, mean, stubborn, and bitter. Because of martial arts, I’ve been able to push the negative from my life and replace it with hope, insight, and positivity. I can look in the mirror and be content with who I see; not just the physical person, but the one who has overcome, grown, and achieved personal success wholly due to martial arts.
Looking back 26 years, I would never have become the person I am today if it had not been for my journey into martial arts. Back then I was not as confident, tenacious, or positive. If I continued being that way, I would be struggling with so many life and health issues today. I would lack motivation. I would be negative and constantly complaining. I would be unappreciative and sour. How do I know this? Because, when I look around at some others who are my age, that is what I see. I’m not being judgmental because everyone has a right to live their life exactly as they choose. I, however, want not of that. I don’t want to “choose” anything; I just want to “do” whatever I can to make each moment count.
Because of martial arts, I am not lonely. I have martial art friendships that are deep within my heart. These are people I trust and admire and role models I aspire to be. When you surround yourself with others who are exceptional, chances are that you will find the “extraordinary” you. It is because you rise to the challenge. The opposite can happen, too. Surround yourself with negativity and you will find yourself wallowing in it. I’m going to do whatever I can to cultivate passionate and reliable relationships that carry me through my difficulties and continue to apply a powerful martial art mindset to life. You can do this, too. Just make the choice to work diligently toward the positive and push the negative aside.
Everything in our modern culture points us in the wrong direction. There are very few cultural concepts that direct us to be warriors and leaders. A martial art can provide you with the quest for ambition and excellence, and that is what it did for me. The day before I attended my first martial art class, I lacked leadership and belief in myself. Today, I use whatever I know to help others succeed and find happiness.
Yes, where would I be today?
Martial arts were my saving grace. They helped me walk toward becoming the best that I can be and to strive higher than I ever imagined. Truly, martial arts saved me in more ways than I can ever describe.
Andrea Harkins
Follow this link to Andrea's web site and more excellent advice. Here
Courtesy of Aikidojo Zaragoza Traditional Takemusu Aikido School of Arturo Navarro.
An interview with Sensei Lewis Bernaldo de Quiros. This is a short extract from the interview and is included here because of the subject matter - 'why use weapons?' The translation from the original Spanish leaves a bit to be desired but with some thought you will understand this meaningful discourse about use of weapons in Aikido training.
Aikidojo Zaragoza: Let's talk about teaching. In Iwama special importance is given to the practice of weapons, Especially with Jo and Ken. ¿Why is it so important?
Lewis: What does weapons training? A lot! Some things that come to mind: First in Aikido in most dojos we jump directly to another with taijutsu practice. But study and deepen the principles of being seated, balanced, focused and connected is very difficult when someone grabs you by force or attack you still beginner. In the kata and suburi we can take the time to study these issues in a very focused manner before attempting another try under stress. The daily training we do only with weapons kata is crucial in this respect. One can say that the center is the connection techniques and awase other. With all this more weapons 'amplified' and the distances, angles and times (ma-ai) are clearer. It has been said that in essence all the different martial arts are just different variations of this area (ma-ai). With weapons we can access it more easily. Related to the issue of ma-ai is the aspect of precision and control. In Aikido we do not like Kendo protection so you have to be extremely
careful in practice with weapons. Maybe we can get away with forcing a taijutsu nikkyo or be imprecise in its application but with uchi yokomen with bokken we can not lose control for a moment - or get injured another.
This quality control is highly accurate and transmitted our practice taijutsu.
Another important aspect related to the above is the intensity. With kumijo kumitachi and have the appropriate level when we can practice with a speed and intensity that is difficult to achieve in taijutsu. With taijutsu this is much more difficult and much depends on the ability of our uke's. Yet I can not practice shiho nage for example at the maximum speed that I can. It's too dangerous. The point here is not only the speed itself, but to experience high energy and power conniveles contain.
Another important point that teaches us humility weapons is practiced - and respect our opponents! Perhaps the greatest man who feels no danger training with other smaller or less strong in weapons taijutsu can feel very disadvantaged when the other is now faster and more intense in their attack with a weapon. As budoka it is not just a matter of courtesy must never devalue or judge others. This is creating a suki (opening).
A short personal story about this question. Sensei always commented that bukiwaza and taijutsu are related and that the essential work of the body, and tai sabaki is awase weapons. He understood but did not feel it. The third year in Iwama I injured my left knee and could only practice weapons morning. At night he is attending class but only watched. After eleven months (and surgery) I had recovered enough to sit up again taijutsu and clearly remember the trepidation with entering the dojo that first night: I was afraid to have forgotten everything! But with tai no henko and morote dori kokyu ho immediately felt my Aikido had taken a leap forward! And in that moment I understood physically what Sensei told us about Riai. I clearly felt the bokken in my taijutsu techniques first.
An interview with Sensei Lewis Bernaldo de Quiros. This is a short extract from the interview and is included here because of the subject matter - 'why use weapons?' The translation from the original Spanish leaves a bit to be desired but with some thought you will understand this meaningful discourse about use of weapons in Aikido training.
Aikidojo Zaragoza: Let's talk about teaching. In Iwama special importance is given to the practice of weapons, Especially with Jo and Ken. ¿Why is it so important?
Lewis: What does weapons training? A lot! Some things that come to mind: First in Aikido in most dojos we jump directly to another with taijutsu practice. But study and deepen the principles of being seated, balanced, focused and connected is very difficult when someone grabs you by force or attack you still beginner. In the kata and suburi we can take the time to study these issues in a very focused manner before attempting another try under stress. The daily training we do only with weapons kata is crucial in this respect. One can say that the center is the connection techniques and awase other. With all this more weapons 'amplified' and the distances, angles and times (ma-ai) are clearer. It has been said that in essence all the different martial arts are just different variations of this area (ma-ai). With weapons we can access it more easily. Related to the issue of ma-ai is the aspect of precision and control. In Aikido we do not like Kendo protection so you have to be extremely
careful in practice with weapons. Maybe we can get away with forcing a taijutsu nikkyo or be imprecise in its application but with uchi yokomen with bokken we can not lose control for a moment - or get injured another.
This quality control is highly accurate and transmitted our practice taijutsu.
Another important aspect related to the above is the intensity. With kumijo kumitachi and have the appropriate level when we can practice with a speed and intensity that is difficult to achieve in taijutsu. With taijutsu this is much more difficult and much depends on the ability of our uke's. Yet I can not practice shiho nage for example at the maximum speed that I can. It's too dangerous. The point here is not only the speed itself, but to experience high energy and power conniveles contain.
Another important point that teaches us humility weapons is practiced - and respect our opponents! Perhaps the greatest man who feels no danger training with other smaller or less strong in weapons taijutsu can feel very disadvantaged when the other is now faster and more intense in their attack with a weapon. As budoka it is not just a matter of courtesy must never devalue or judge others. This is creating a suki (opening).
A short personal story about this question. Sensei always commented that bukiwaza and taijutsu are related and that the essential work of the body, and tai sabaki is awase weapons. He understood but did not feel it. The third year in Iwama I injured my left knee and could only practice weapons morning. At night he is attending class but only watched. After eleven months (and surgery) I had recovered enough to sit up again taijutsu and clearly remember the trepidation with entering the dojo that first night: I was afraid to have forgotten everything! But with tai no henko and morote dori kokyu ho immediately felt my Aikido had taken a leap forward! And in that moment I understood physically what Sensei told us about Riai. I clearly felt the bokken in my taijutsu techniques first.
"We will have one world or we will have no world.
We will all live together or we will all die together"
Aikido and awareness
By Mark Hardwick Lecturer in Health Sciences and Jee pai kung fu instructor
People begin their aikido careers for various reasons – some may want to keep fit, some may have been inspired by watching a film, others may have been dragged along to the class by a friend. Often, learning self defence is a factor involved in this decision.
To start with, one may view self defence as a sort of computer programme, where it works on the basis of 'if your attacker does this, then you do this'. This of course is fine to start with, while you are starting to accumulate a repertoire of techniques and discover what works for you and what doesn't. You will eventually develop a range of options for each eventuality. In reality though this approach has its problems, a situation in which self defence is required will be completely unpredictable, and it is unknown exactly what the attacker will do. Even if you can predict the attacks, they will not be applied in a predictable way. Therefore, while the rehearsed techniques must become an intrinsic part of the available repertoire, it could be a mistake to think that each one is a programmed response to a particular attack, and that it will work in exactly the way we expect. Therefore we might think about practicing aikido in a way which accepts the unpredictable nature of reality.
Self defence training may be developed so that, having learned techniques, they are applied in ever changing ways and situations, for example when it is dark, when it is cold, when the ground is slippery, when the attacker is drunk, when you are in a confined space, when you are injured, etc. All of these variations help to develop self defence application, but please be careful in training, because as you develop realism, things can get more dangerous.
Even after all this, an approach to self defence where the intention is to repel an attack, is still only one element of self defence. When practical self defence is needed, it could be considered that more suitable strategies of self defence have already failed. A preferable strategy would be to develop the ability to escape from a situation before the need for physical combat arises. This will require that a greater sense of awareness is developed. It would be even better to avoid being in that situation in the first place.
This is reminiscent of the 'recruitment' scene in the film 'Seven Samurai', where the prospective recruits must enter a room. The first is struck on the head by an attacker waiting behind the door. The second successfully repels this attack, which is better. However the third doesn't even go into the room – he anticipates the attack and so avoids the need for physical combat.
Bruce Lee named his martial arts style 'jeet kune do' ('the way of the intercepting fist') in recognition of the importance of this ability to anticipate. Progressing from responding to an attack, he then advocated responding to the attack before it had actually been initiated, by detecting the attacker's intent (possibly by noticing a barely perceptible movement). Ultimately it might be possible to respond to an attack even before the attacker had thought of making the attack! It would of course be very hard to argue this as a self defence case in a court of law: 'I defended myself even before the attacker knew that he was going to attack me'. It does though provide the opportunity to escape from a situation, or to avoid it.
In aikido training, as well as learning techniques, movements and discipline, one is also learning awareness, and attention to this is important. We might consider awareness as the first line of self defence in more ways than one. It might prevent us from being involved in an accident by allowing us to anticipate the careless actions of another person, or it might prevent us from experiencing an injury at work due to anticipation of hazards. Increased awareness of health status is of vital importance. Those people who recognise signs and symptoms of a serious disease early stand a much better chance of survival and recovery.
So how does it work? Viewed as a purely physical manifestation, awareness is a function of the nervous system. The nervous system is made up of the central nervous system (brain plus spinal cord), and the peripheral nervous system (all the other nerves). We are consciously aware of the operation of some nerves, for example when you feel pain, or move your muscles. These are generally known as somatic nerves. Other nerves – the autonomic nerves - operate subconsciously, for example you do not need to consciously calculate how much oxygen you need to inhale, or how much sugar you have in your bloodstream. Your nervous system works this all out without you knowing and makes sure that your physiology functions properly.
In the same way that we trust our autonomic nervous system to take care of all our internal physiological processes, we might also learn to trust it to initiate the correct responses to situations, and so rely on autonomic responses as well as somatic responses. This would mean that, as long as we have developed the natural ability to execute good aikido technique, we don't need to rely purely on conscious memory, and its list of 'if this…then this' responses. This frees us to respond much more naturally and in harmony with events.
This is not to discard the idea of conscious responses. Cultivation of the conscious calculative parts of the brain is important and this is developed through acts of memorisation, calculation and logic. However it can't do all the work on its own. For heightened awareness it must be used in combination with other less tangible areas of the central nervous system, such as the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland and the limbic system, which govern our interaction with the environment and our subconscious.
As martial artists we are constantly working towards developing abilities which seem to defy normality. In relation to awareness, we might consider those curious areas which lie slightly beyond physical sensation and perception. When strange things happen, can we simply explain them by referring to the physical and chemical mechanics of the nervous system…or is there something else happening which we, in the martial arts, might have access to? It is yours to discover.
First published in THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE BRITISH AIKIDO BOARD February 2015
The Shocking Truth About Martial Arts.
Martial Arts are generally considered to be fighting skills derived from the Eastern hemisphere, Japan, China and Korea, etc, Violent images as seen on TV or in films may lead one to believe that they are all about violence, but this would be far from the shocking truth. Self defence is one aspect; nobody wants to be a victim of violent crime, but beneath the surface lays many secrets as yet untold in the West. Of course, it must be remembered that even in films Martial Arts is used defensively, rather than offensively and often in a fight for life. What would you do if you were being attacked by one of today's drugged-up thieves or relentless robbers? They don’t care if you are a pacifist, have faith in something or do not like violence, they are angry and imbalanced, so will attack even the meek and innocent. Traditionally many people learned to protect themselves and their families. This is not “gratuitous violence” but common sense protection.
Does the Martial Arts practice promote violence though? Traditionally, a word which has a wide context, the instruction is not to encourage people to beat others up, but only to react to a violent attack in self-defence.
Real Martial Arts or Fraud?
“How can we tell if our local teachers are giving us something safe?” Good question. Pre-judgement is something none of us want and it can cause problems. Knowledgeable judgement however can solve or prevent problems. Things to look out for include frauds that have more qualifications than they could possibly have achieved in a few years. These may include “world champion” titles when they have never been outside of their region, promises of “black belts” when you sign up for 3 years, or “faster track success” for even more money. Another one is the classic “call me Master” syndrome, no real Martial Arts instructor would dream of it! Lately there has been a trend for MMA or “Mixed Martial arts” schools to pop up here and there. Are they real or are they frauds? Just check out their qualifications, if they have got real Instructor certificates in more than one style, that are traceable, then they may be genuine, otherwise be wary. Young “Masters” pop up here and there but there can be no such thing. It takes many, many years to reach a level of mastery, not just the hollow claim that you have “invented” a new system or improved what you thought was an inefficient one. This is just a thin excuse for someone who could not be bothered to train for a long period but wants to be called “Master”.
Many traditional Martial Arts have been around for a long time. Ask the students what they get out of it and if they often get used for target practice or sustain injuries during practice; the odd one is inevitable, but no more than the odd one.
Health & Fitness
Many western fitness fans don’t see that some of the modern fitness gurus are actually trying to take bits-and-pieces from ancient tried and tested methods; e.g. Yoga, Karate, Tai Chi, Ch’i Kung and so on. It really isn’t necessary as the “old school” styles have it all, or should have after a hundred to a thousand years of development! What about Mental Health? As someone who has studied psychology, sociology, health, fitness and self-defence for over fifty years I can say with all honesty that Traditional Martial Arts, generally, offers a path not only to better physical health but better mental health. Take PTSD, for example. Many people around the world who teach traditional Chinese T’ai Chi Ch’uan/Taijiquan or “Tai Chi” (misnomer) are now teaching sufferers of PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) because it has such a profound effect. This movement was recently pushed forward by a UK organisation, MAFCUK. Logical thinking in a “one step at a time” manner can help the human brain to grasp back some of the damage done by shock and fear. It can help someone get back on track. A marvellous “tool” indeed. As for the average person in the street, it can help them to focus, take control of their direction, stay calmer, avoid common illnesses, think more clearly and generally stay younger for longer. This is why it is part of every day “society fabric” in the East.
Written by Professor Mike Symonds, MA.
(Founder / Grandmaster / International Coach) 2014
Martial Arts are generally considered to be fighting skills derived from the Eastern hemisphere, Japan, China and Korea, etc, Violent images as seen on TV or in films may lead one to believe that they are all about violence, but this would be far from the shocking truth. Self defence is one aspect; nobody wants to be a victim of violent crime, but beneath the surface lays many secrets as yet untold in the West. Of course, it must be remembered that even in films Martial Arts is used defensively, rather than offensively and often in a fight for life. What would you do if you were being attacked by one of today's drugged-up thieves or relentless robbers? They don’t care if you are a pacifist, have faith in something or do not like violence, they are angry and imbalanced, so will attack even the meek and innocent. Traditionally many people learned to protect themselves and their families. This is not “gratuitous violence” but common sense protection.
Does the Martial Arts practice promote violence though? Traditionally, a word which has a wide context, the instruction is not to encourage people to beat others up, but only to react to a violent attack in self-defence.
Real Martial Arts or Fraud?
“How can we tell if our local teachers are giving us something safe?” Good question. Pre-judgement is something none of us want and it can cause problems. Knowledgeable judgement however can solve or prevent problems. Things to look out for include frauds that have more qualifications than they could possibly have achieved in a few years. These may include “world champion” titles when they have never been outside of their region, promises of “black belts” when you sign up for 3 years, or “faster track success” for even more money. Another one is the classic “call me Master” syndrome, no real Martial Arts instructor would dream of it! Lately there has been a trend for MMA or “Mixed Martial arts” schools to pop up here and there. Are they real or are they frauds? Just check out their qualifications, if they have got real Instructor certificates in more than one style, that are traceable, then they may be genuine, otherwise be wary. Young “Masters” pop up here and there but there can be no such thing. It takes many, many years to reach a level of mastery, not just the hollow claim that you have “invented” a new system or improved what you thought was an inefficient one. This is just a thin excuse for someone who could not be bothered to train for a long period but wants to be called “Master”.
Many traditional Martial Arts have been around for a long time. Ask the students what they get out of it and if they often get used for target practice or sustain injuries during practice; the odd one is inevitable, but no more than the odd one.
Health & Fitness
Many western fitness fans don’t see that some of the modern fitness gurus are actually trying to take bits-and-pieces from ancient tried and tested methods; e.g. Yoga, Karate, Tai Chi, Ch’i Kung and so on. It really isn’t necessary as the “old school” styles have it all, or should have after a hundred to a thousand years of development! What about Mental Health? As someone who has studied psychology, sociology, health, fitness and self-defence for over fifty years I can say with all honesty that Traditional Martial Arts, generally, offers a path not only to better physical health but better mental health. Take PTSD, for example. Many people around the world who teach traditional Chinese T’ai Chi Ch’uan/Taijiquan or “Tai Chi” (misnomer) are now teaching sufferers of PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) because it has such a profound effect. This movement was recently pushed forward by a UK organisation, MAFCUK. Logical thinking in a “one step at a time” manner can help the human brain to grasp back some of the damage done by shock and fear. It can help someone get back on track. A marvellous “tool” indeed. As for the average person in the street, it can help them to focus, take control of their direction, stay calmer, avoid common illnesses, think more clearly and generally stay younger for longer. This is why it is part of every day “society fabric” in the East.
Written by Professor Mike Symonds, MA.
(Founder / Grandmaster / International Coach) 2014
Martial arts and dangerous occupations - a comparison of principles.
Photo courtesy of Manual of Practical Firemanship, first published 1945.
Consider this simple list of principles.
Maintaining a safe and guarded posture.
Develop sensitivity to any advancing danger.
Remain calm and focussed throughout.
Be adaptable and react intelligently to change.
Train well and often.
Promote the will to serve others.
Convey essential information.
Practice realistically and for any situation.
Train your spirit as well as your body.
The quality of your actions and deeds become more important than the façade of ego.
At the core you find an empathy with others, a shared sense of brother/sisterhood.
You aspire to being better, in your actions as well as within self. A good reputation must be earned.
Your intuition improves and a sixth sense develops about possible dangers.
You cultivate a deeper and ultimately beneficial appreciation of responsibility for your own actions.
Consequences become a reality in your life.
Now, ask yourself, “Was this a list of principles for martial artists or will it fit anyone employed in a dangerous job, e.g. emergency services, military, building trades, farmers, fishermen etc?”
Techniques and consequences may vary but the principles, the real essence of each activity are the same. Facing risks to your health in any form raises your awareness to the value of life itself.
Visit a local club and find out just how much you might be able to joyfully bring to the art. It’s not that dangerous . . . no more so than what you might do every day!
Begin a new and interesting path in life by joining a local club, why not start with an Aikido weapons class in Bideford.
The class is open to adults of all abilities and experience.
Photo courtesy of Manual of Practical Firemanship, first published 1945.
Consider this simple list of principles.
Maintaining a safe and guarded posture.
Develop sensitivity to any advancing danger.
Remain calm and focussed throughout.
Be adaptable and react intelligently to change.
Train well and often.
Promote the will to serve others.
Convey essential information.
Practice realistically and for any situation.
Train your spirit as well as your body.
The quality of your actions and deeds become more important than the façade of ego.
At the core you find an empathy with others, a shared sense of brother/sisterhood.
You aspire to being better, in your actions as well as within self. A good reputation must be earned.
Your intuition improves and a sixth sense develops about possible dangers.
You cultivate a deeper and ultimately beneficial appreciation of responsibility for your own actions.
Consequences become a reality in your life.
Now, ask yourself, “Was this a list of principles for martial artists or will it fit anyone employed in a dangerous job, e.g. emergency services, military, building trades, farmers, fishermen etc?”
Techniques and consequences may vary but the principles, the real essence of each activity are the same. Facing risks to your health in any form raises your awareness to the value of life itself.
Visit a local club and find out just how much you might be able to joyfully bring to the art. It’s not that dangerous . . . no more so than what you might do every day!
Begin a new and interesting path in life by joining a local club, why not start with an Aikido weapons class in Bideford.
The class is open to adults of all abilities and experience.
New book all about the real life journeys of students of Aiki
The range of ways and circumstances in which people have used what they have learnt on the mat to deal with whatever life throws at them is simply amazing. Some stories are very short, some much longer, some make a simple point, and others are far more profound, but they all serve to inspire and motivate any serious aikido student and maybe will serve to entice students on the mat when they understand the benefits of aikido practice.
On the most basic level, the book is simply a good read and enjoy. It is the ideal book for aikido teachers to promote to their students, because it simple focuses on what can happen if they keep on training. Aikido seeks to promote harmony, but all too often in the aikido world, the different lineages seem to focus on what divides us. However, in putting together the book from so many diverse places, it became increasingly obvious that we are mostly climbing the same mountain, albeit the chosen route may be different. If you would like to buy the book then contact Quentin Cooke ([email protected]) $25 – AE members get $5 off! Quentin Cooke, 7th dan, is the chief instructor of Burwell Aikido Club in Cambridge, UK. Quentin has served as a Board member for Aiki Extensions since 2008. He is the 2014 International Aiki Peace Week committee chairperson and his dojo is hosting the 2014 Aiki Extensions European Seminar |
Conversation on Jo at lunch break, 6th November seminar in Poole.
Present, myself, Andy, Nigel and Julian.."Why make a move that is unnecessary, keep it simple. ... don't give away your intention". Etiquette will mean that you select a good Jo .... and not someone elses'! A quality Jo is less likely to break when you are depending upon it ... eg in Jo dori or Jo nage. ....and look after it. Also don't lean on it when on the tatami as it damages the mat for one .... or any where else come to think of it." "Keep the shoulders relaxed and as far as possible your elbows in more than they are out, remain free flowing in action." (Leaning on your Jo means that you have given away your control of gravity to something other than self). "Keeping two hands in contact with the Jo when active has an advantage, also when changing hands, crossover of hands, don't take the hand too far from the Jo."
Without tension is surely the way of peace.
Present, myself, Andy, Nigel and Julian.."Why make a move that is unnecessary, keep it simple. ... don't give away your intention". Etiquette will mean that you select a good Jo .... and not someone elses'! A quality Jo is less likely to break when you are depending upon it ... eg in Jo dori or Jo nage. ....and look after it. Also don't lean on it when on the tatami as it damages the mat for one .... or any where else come to think of it." "Keep the shoulders relaxed and as far as possible your elbows in more than they are out, remain free flowing in action." (Leaning on your Jo means that you have given away your control of gravity to something other than self). "Keeping two hands in contact with the Jo when active has an advantage, also when changing hands, crossover of hands, don't take the hand too far from the Jo."
Without tension is surely the way of peace.
A conversation about Jo – Easter 2011 Kefalonia in the Ionian Sea.
Present; Sensei Tony Sargeant 6th dan Aikiki from the U.K. ; Sergei Stoliarov 3rd dan Aikiki from the Russian Federation; Sensei Richard Small (editor) 3rd dan TIA GB and Sensei Ludmilla Vinogravoda 2nd dan from the Russian Federation.
Sensei Sergei.
‘there is a question of what comes first. Is it form or power?
Many will say that form comes first but we have found from teaching many children that they will learn at least three times faster if we begin with power’. S Sergei later demonstrated the methodology in the Dojo, … it made sense and his students of course are the proof of this method. ‘ from power good form is created, only later is more detail added.
Self discovery is a valuable ingredient of the method and indeed the path we seek to tread’
‘By raising our level through self discovery you can achieve the possibility of teaching that which was never taught to you.’
‘We should open our gaze to other possibilities but must continue to walk the path. Only towards the end will the wisdoms become more apparent. Self teaching is valuable and can be quick. For example, Shaolin monks asked to stand on bricks soon discover the best way to stand!' 'Why is it that we do not find ourselves? Is it that teachers talk too much?'
Editor's note; yes, I'm guilty there, perhaps I will look for more self learning in my own students in future.
Sensei Ludmilla
'It takes time, your own time, to feel the Jo, not understand it but feel it. The Jo, and ken, need to become as much a part of your body as your own arm and you should be able to manipulate it as such'.
Sensei Tony
'wherever in the world I saw Saito Sensei teach the Jo he would just pick one from the same rack as the students. It wasn't a special Jo he used, therefore it is not the object itself but the person that matters. Through confidence form flourishes.'
Sensei Sergei
'Consider this, if you think that you must use the Jo and generate power with the purpose of using the jo then this is a wrong feeling. Though you feel the weapon it is your own effortless power that is put into the Jo. It is much more than choreography. Does the Elephant know he is powerful? When he moves trees out of the way, he doesn't know that other animals cannot do this.'
Editor's note, perhaps only those in the right place on the path will see the wisdom in these words.
'Is form or essence more important?
You know the game for children where they seek a treasure and one who knows will call out, 'cold, warm, hot.'? Our journey through life has these moments when we make some spiritual progress: we can't explain this to self but there is a sense that what we have experienced has taken us closer to what some might call God. For whatever that means to you, we wish to take one step on the path together'.
Sensei Tony;
Changes in self can make it appear that the kata changes, it does not. People say, 'but you have changed that bit'. However it is how you and they see it that has changed. Change occurs for what is necessary for the one on the path at the time. A good teacher is needed to give you opportunity to find ways you can change, the kata does not. Seek ideas on emphasis, direction, body posture, energy, where to relax and where to consolidate. Jo can add to body balance. When blocking with Jo try to release your own tensions .... breathing out on the block can lead to relaxation and be powerful'.
'It is difficult to provide the answers because they will often be different for each person and will relate to where they are with their skill level and spiritual understanding at any given time. If you try and act out high level understandings without sound foundations it is unlikely you will succeed, sound basic comes first. Mind on foundation and the Jo will be a willing partner.'
Editor's note; I wanted to write an article for you the reader which would set out some achievable insights into the Jo practice.
I watched Sensei Sargeant demonstrate different levels of understanding and speak of his discoveries. As I watched and listened the sense and truth was apparent, but I am unable to express it in words – it is simply a personal journey of discovery to be found in your own time and place ... and if you want to. A bit like a holiday snap of a beach or a tree, they mean little to anyone else ... other than those who have been there or plan to. At a certain level the practice of jo kata can almost seem like a more expressive version of counting prayer beads.
So, as my porridge cools and the island of Kefalonia warms in the Sun, I conclude that the Jo in all its forms is merely a companion to you on your path, the path, which like the kata, remains the same – a spiritual path – a journey of the higher self with the rest of you joining in as required .... if not then perhaps the path and Jo have a different meaning for you.
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