In traditional budo, rank is not a ceiling—it is a reference point. One must never settle into the form of the rank they hold, but instead strive to embody the level above. This principle should be visible in every facet Continue reading
I quickly wrote these down after a seminar with Kato Shozo Sensei, Kendo Kyoshi 8th dan and Iaido Kyoshi 7 dan. During the seminar he mentioned these and they have resonated with me ever since. Disclaimer: this was my interpretation Continue reading
The All Japan Kendo Federation has since 2012 it seems, adopted the practice of posting the shinsa results online for Kodansha tests. I wondered as to the trends in attempts and pass rate percentages, and also would differing ranks display different trends. I assumed Continue reading
San sappou or san satsu ho, related to the mitsu no sen, refers to the three ways in which one can disrupt the opponnet’s kamae and create an opening and/or opportunity to strike or thrust.The three are known as 1) Continue reading
Sometimes different aspects of my life bleed into each other. This recent article in a particle physics magazine, Symmetry Magazine.org, was exactly one of those times. Hope you enjoy the article linked below. The Persevering Physicist
Fudo Myo-o, one of the protective deities in Buddhism, is often shown wielding a rope and a sword. It is with his sword that he cuts through the illusions to reveal the unadulterated reality. The rope simultaneously is used to Continue reading
I decided to revisit the post from a couple year ago and update the chart. I am still not sure I fully agree with what I put together. It should noted that the practice period is the minimum required training period. Continue reading
Ha-suji tadashiku is defined simply as the correct angle of the cut, particularly as it enters and exits the opponents [1]. In iaido, it is paramount to focus on this to ensure that one cuts with the blade and not Continue reading
Shu, Ha, Ri ( 守破離) ~Follow, break, leave The essence of Shu Ha Ri is, in the beginning, one focuses on learning the basics through imitation (Shu), next, the focus shifts to understanding principles, philosophy, meaning, and applying that to Continue reading
The eligibility date for promotional testing is approaching and that has inspired me to reflect on a few things. I have maintained a steadfast method of how I approach regular practice and shinsa preparation that has been forged under the guidance Continue reading