Shugyo Adam Mitchell

Have we been lied to? Or, are the truths very hard to reach within the Takamatsu-den, available to those willing to go deep, traversing the depths of a discipline, enduring the physical and emotional demands needed to actually 'get it' only to arrive at new beginnings, over and over again? Is 'play' a decoy? 

Meanwhile, jesters and charlatans splash about in puddles of mastery with cool names like kyoshi or renshi, literaly wearing capes and hoods of the mystics, telling tales to western students of far-off lands they've journied to and stories of sages they've learned from.

In this reflection I pose the question to leaders and instructors, are you faking it for reasons of ego and vanity, or are you actually going after the Bu-do as a student, relentless in your pursuit of basics, with humility and the willingness to get tapped out as your north star? Are you trying to capture the gokui with each root form, or are you more concerned with conversion rates and click throughs on your video stats?  

In this episode I encourage self reflection; are we contributing to the degradation of our Kobudo due to inaccurate representations online? Or, as leaders, do we correctly emphasize the importance of discipline, fitness, bio-mechanics and historical appreciation of our craft? This is solely a conversation between you and you. 

I hope something is gained in this conversation, some value and thought are carried forward; if only for one person. Please enjoy and consider. 

 

Episode 9: A dialogue on the Togakure Ryu, myth, fact the future of a Hidden Lineage

Join me in conversation with Sean Askew, Author of Hidden Lineage, founder of the Bujinkan Kokusai Renkoumyo and a personal student of Hatsumi Soke.  

Sean was one of the inspirations in my own training, having travelled to his seminars in the early 2000s and experiencing his small community who trained hard, regularly sparred and offered a genuine and authentic experience. His openness and willingness to roll with anyone was a refreshing break from the timid, often-times cultish experience I found in other black keiko-gi filled Dojo. Sean wore a white Judo Gi. 

It's been two and a half decades since we spoke, sharing the same influences in our Budo and many overlaps in life itself, I am proud to share our conversation about the topics of Ninjutsu, the myths, facts, research and the ongoing efforts to preserve and authenticate traditional Nin-po and Japanese Kobudo. Aside from the valuable historical knowledge he shares, most important is his unique message he shares, challenging us all to shift our perspective toward training and acceptance; and how everything must die once, and be reborn again. 

CONNECT WITH SEAN:

Bujinkan Kokusai Renkoumyo

Hidden Lineage: The Ninja of the Toda Clan https://amzn.to/3yagkYQ

Email: bkrbudo@bkrbudo.com

ABOUT SEAN ASKEW Sean Askew (15th Dan Bujinkan, Kosen Judo 3rd Dan) lived in Japan for 15 years, regularly training under Hatsumi Soke and several of the Japanese Bujinkan senior ranking Shihan. He graduated from Sophia University (上智大学) in Tokyo with a degree in Japanese Studies, and minored in Japanese Religions. His martial arts background includes Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu, Kosen Judo, Kodokan Judo, MMA and shootfighting. Sean teaches from his Bujinkan Kokusai Renkoumyo syllabus, a system approved by Hatsumi Soke and Noguchi Shihan in 2001 and has black belt students in various countries throughout the world. Sean currently resides in Novi Michigan where he is a Global Purchasing Buyer in the automotive production industry. He travels to Japan several times a year to continue his training and to provide guidance and support to his students who travel there.

In this episode, we go deep into the concept of “Jishu Geiko” 自主稽古 or independent practice in martial arts, emphasizing the transformative effects of solo training on physical, emotional, and mental well-being. This reflection underscores the significance of establishing stable routines, incorporating meditation practices, and controlling all aspects of oneself for optimal performance.

Access the free Jishu Geiko worksheet mentioned in this episode: https://www.yasuragidojo.com/blog/jishu-geiko

Key takeaways include:


The importance of solo training in enhancing fitness routines and mastering specific techniques daily.
Maintaining a purposeful workout routine to foster growth and development.
Emphasizing the value of journaling progress, utilizing specific tools, and keeping a notebook for enhanced learning and mental recall.

Moreover, we explore the power of visualization techniques in mental preparation for activities ranging from martial arts training to weightlifting and chess. Through examples of successful individuals, we witness the profound impact of visualization on physical outcomes and skill development.

Additional highlights include:


Understanding the role of solo 'kaso teki' and partnered training in enhancing visualization and technique improvement.
Discussing the significance of consistent commitment, mindset training, and proper form for effective progress in martial arts.
The benefits of aligning solo practice routines with personal goals, incorporating visualization techniques, and focusing on body mechanics for positive life changes.

If you are interested in stepping further into my work, below are links to help you better understand the Yasuragi Dojo and opportunities that may help in your path in Kobudo study.

Once again, thank you for spending time here ~ Adam

 

OUR DOJO: https://yasuragidojo.com

JOIN OUR DOJO: https://yasuragidojo.com/join

FREE TRAINING RESOURCES:

Fundamental Taijutsu: https://yasuragidojo.com/taijutsu-fun...

Podcast: https://yasuragidojo.com/podcast

Dojo Newsletter: https://yasuragidojo.com/newsletter

 

MORE ABOUT THE YASURAGI DOJO

The Yasuragi Dojo is a school of Traditional Japanese Martial Arts, teaching the traditions of our teacher, Manaka Unsui and the International Jinenkan organization. Our Dojo preserves the arts of Ninpo, Jujutsu, Kenjutsu and Classical Weaponry. Collectively, our art is called Jissen Kobudo.

We have proudly served the Hudson Valley of New York since 1998, with our Dojo located in the hamlet of Mahopac. Our Dojo has served our global community of students and training groups through our online programs since 2007. If you are interested in joining our Dojo, please inquire directly for information.

About The Jinenkan: Developed by Lieutenant Colonel Fumio Manaka, the international Jinenkan organization is a complete martial art system characterized by it’s traditions of authentic Kobudō, the classical fighting forms of Japan’s Samurai.

 

Epsiode 7: Ikigai and unraveling it's profound meaning as the essence of life’s purpose.

Listen on: iTunes, Spotify and YouTube

Nicholas Kemp, author of Ikigai-kan, Feel A Life Worth Living, emerges as a beacon guiding Western audiences to comprehend and integrate the essence of ikigai into their lives for a profound sense of fulfillment. He is also the host of the Ikigai Tribe (https://ikigaitribe.com/) , a small community of educators, psychologists, coaches, and trainers who serve their personal communities using the ikigai concept.

The dialogue unfolds with the many perspectives on ikigai, while underlining the intrinsic importance of having a clear sense of purpose and propelling forward in life. It contrasts Western notions of success with leveraging creativity and imagination to nurture one’s purpose, thus painting a richer tapestry of fulfillment.

Furthermore, the exploration delves into the concept of “Ibasho,” a psychological sanctuary fostering positive relationships, accentuating the invaluable role of social connections and the delicate equilibrium between solitude and community.

Acceptance, Zen philosophy, and resilience in the face of life’s trials emerge as pivotal themes, positioning ikigai as a transformative understanding towards life contentment through intentional choices and pursuits.

Nick's initiatives of organizing Ikigai retreats in Japan resonate with the ethos of experiential learning and conscious tourism, aligning seamlessly with our work here on the Shugyo podcast. It's been an inspirational and valuable conversation.

Enjoy this compelling episode with Nicholas Kemp, that not only sheds light on the essence of ikigai but also offers a roadmap to unlocking purpose and fulfillment in life.

WHAT YOU'LL GET FROM THIS EPISODE:• Ikigai is the feeling that life is worth living and can be found in various sources, such as relationships, goals, and small joys.• When one loses their Ikigai, it is often a collapse of their value system, and finding a new Ikigai requires reevaluating one's values.• Ikigai is not just about achieving goals but about the process of using one's life in a meaningful and purposeful way.• Tools and methods, such as journaling and group discussions, can help individuals discover their Ikigai and live a more fulfilling life.• Ikigai is a personal and subjective experience, and each individual may experience it differently.• The concept of Kokorozashi, or the direction of one's heart and spirit, is important in finding and pursuing one's Ikigai. Understanding the meaning of kanji characters can provide insights into the essence of concepts like ikigai.• Cohorts and community play a crucial role in finding one's purpose and creating a sense of belonging.• Intuition and serendipity can lead to unexpected opportunities and pathways in life.• Finding ibasho, a place where one can be themselves and feel comfortable, can be achieved through solitude and connection with others.• Acceptance and understanding the true nature of things (arugamama) allow for adaptation and flow in life.• Tapping into one's values, exploring interests, and allowing oneself to play are important steps in finding a sense of purpose.• Ikigai retreats in Japan offer experiential learning opportunities for individuals seeking to explore their ikigai.

CONNECT WITH NICHOLAS KEMP:WEB: https://ikigaitribe.com/PODCAST: https://ikigaitribe.com/podcasts/

THE BOOK - IKIGAI-KAN, Feel A Life Worth Living: https://amzn.to/3JePZuM

In this reflection, I share from a deeply personal and traumatic experience of being attacked and stabbed and exactly how this event shaped my perspective on knife defense as a martial arts instructor. I reflect on the need for responsible teaching and understanding of knife defense principles, emphasizing the importance of fitness over choreography and the four following principles to build a solid foundation for any traditional martial artist wishing to expand their knife fighting understanding.

As well, I step into the physiological and emotional aspects of life-threatening situations, emphasizing the need for realistic training methods and the understanding of pre and post-conflict period within the lifecycle of violence.

It's my goal in this episode to challenges the traditional approaches to tantojutsu (traditional Japanese knife technique) and highlight the overlap between traditional techniques and modern reality-based martial arts meanwhile stressing the necessity of quality instruction and commitment to training.

SUMMARY OF EPISODE: 

Principles of Knife Defense


- The importance of understanding physiological changes and emotional responses in life-threatening situations.
The need for realistic training methods, such as sparring, kata, conditioning, education, and meditation.
The significance of teaching knife defense and the practicality of moves, as well as distinguishing between ambush versus defense.
Importance of teaching flinch response, freeze factor, control over breath, and handling lacerations during stressful situations.
The need to limit complex movements and focus on simple movements in knife defense.

Fitness in Martial Arts


The concern that fitness is not being taught in martial arts, where fitness means understanding how the body reacts during fights.
Traditional kata training may not simulate physiological changes effectively and may not prepare for real-life stress.
The need for gradual exposure to strenuous conditions during training to help identify body responses and override them.

Understanding Conflict and Post-Conflict


The importance of understanding the life cycle of conflict in knife defense and traditional martial arts versus modern reality-based martial arts.
Traditional martial arts align with modern reality-based martial arts in understanding the pre-conflict, escalation, and post-conflict phases, in contrast to focusing solely on the apex of conflict.
In the post-conflict phase, the importance of self-triage, de-escalation, articulation of law enforcement, and understanding the biomechanics of lacerations.

Training Tools and Methods


The significance of using the right tools for training, particularly the familiarity and understanding of different knife types and their mechanics.
The necessity of training with a second knife, promoting familiarity, and proficiency in handling the weapon.
Discouraging the use of rubber tools for training and emphasizing the importance of using real knives for proficiency.

Episode 5: When a Jinenkan and Bujinkan Instructor decide to have a conversation, it becomes a study on the nuances of Kamae. 

Discover what most students miss, and the incredibly important reasons you must study Kamae deeply in order to grow as a martial artist.

In this episode we focus on the concept of Kamae, or mental intention combined with body posture, in traditional Japanese Kobudo. Our guest, martial artist and Chinese medicine practitioner, Mark Franco, shares invaluable insights into the foundational importance of Kamae, its evolution, and the deep mastery required for its practice.

Join us as we explore the significance of posture and its application in martial arts training, delving into the complexities and nuances that shape the physical path for the traditional martial arts. So, grab your gi and get ready to embark on a journey of discovery and enlightenment in the realm of Kamae.

KEY POINTS DISCUSSED 


Understanding Posture vs. Stance: Mark Franco highlighted the nuanced difference between "posture" and "stance" in martial arts, emphasizing that posture is a natural alignment that becomes second nature through practice, as opposed to something one jumps into when fighting.
The Evolution of Kamae: The episode explored how Kamae serves as the foundational building block in traditional martial arts training, focusing on body posture, alignment, emotional state, purpose, and intention. Mark emphasized the need to deeply understand the shapes and principles of one's martial arts system, citing Kamae as the foundational bricks of tradition.
Commitment and Dedication: Both hosts stressed the importance of commitment, dedication, and continuous learning in martial arts, sharing experiences from their own journeys and acknowledging the challenges that come with sincere practice.
Application in Practice: The discussion touched on the impact of proper positioning and correct intention in martial arts, emphasizing the role of Kamae in shaping timing and responses during practice.
Shu ha ri in Traditional Martial Arts: The hosts discussed the concept of shu ha ri, emphasizing the importance of foundational commitment to the root and the evolution of techniques in traditional martial arts, including the role of Kamae in sequential development and training.

 

CONNECT WITH MARK FRANCO

West Los Angeles Bujinkan Dojo: https://www.westladojo.com/

Instagram: @west_los_angeles_dojo

info@westladojo.com

 

WEST LOS ANGELES DOJO

4228 Sepulveda Blvd.

Culver City, CA 90230

(424) 256-9036