Shugyo Adam Mitchell

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

Episode 4: Reflections on the Path: Unlocking the Secrets of Learning and Self-Improvement in Budo

In this episode of Shugyo, Adam reflects on his journey in the Dojo and shares pivotal moments from his training in Japanese martial arts. He recounts how his initial arrogance and lack of understanding of the true purpose of training led to a transformative lesson on "learning how to learn."

Through his experiences with various teachers and the guidance of Manaka Sensei, he discovered the foundational pillars of Jissen Kobudo and how they became the compass for his learning journey. His mindset shifted from "shut up and train" to "shut up and learn," leading to a deeper understanding of martial arts techniques, healing practices, and energy work.

Key Points:


The importance of humility and openness in the learning process
Discovering the foundational pillars of Kobudo for self-correction and improvement
The transformative shift from focusing on training to focusing on learning
Encouragement to listeners to reflect on their own learning journey and discover new ways to become better students in their martial arts practice.

The Yasuragi Dojo: https://yasuragidojo.com

Shugyo Podcast: https://yasuragidojo.com/podcasts/shugyo

 

In this episode, I have a coffee with Eric Shahan, a dedicated translator of martial arts literature. Eric shares his passion for translating ancient martial arts books, shedding light on his fascinating work and the impact it has had on his own martial arts journey. From uncovering the philosophy of maintaining awareness in combat to delving into historical punishment methods and tattooing in Japan, Eric's deep dive into these ancient texts has brought valuable insights to the English-speaking world and book-by-book has shifted much of way the western world understands Japanese martial culture. Join us in this conversation, as we journey through Eric's exploration of traditional martial arts literature and the influence it has had on his life and practice.

Episode take-aways:


The World of Translated Martial Arts Books: Eric's passion for translating martial arts books has led to a deep understanding of the philosophies and historical significance of these texts. His work includes impactful translations that shed light on the complexities of Japanese martial arts and culture. Find out how these translations have impacted his own martial arts journey and the significance of these timeless texts.
Rare Insights into Edo Period Martial Practices: Eric's work has brought to light the lesser-known aspects of Edo period martial arts, from punishment methods and tattooing to the practical knowledge and magic prevalent during that era. Learn about his extensive translations on the history of tattooing in Japan and the overlap with other works, offering new and intriguing information for tattoo artists and enthusiasts.
New Avenues in Traditional Martial Arts Research: Eric's commitment to exhaustively researching and translating hard-to-find books from Japanese archives is not only commendable but also incredibly valuable for traditional martial arts practitioners. His dedication to unveiling detailed descriptions of spear fighting techniques, as well as exploring new translation technology for old handwritten Japanese documents, promises to significantly enrich the understanding of traditional martial arts.

If you're passionate about traditional martial arts and eager to delve into the hidden depths of Japanese martial history and culture, this episode is a treasure trove of insights. 

 

CONNECT WITH ERIC:

Shinobu Books

Twitter: @ShinobuBooks

Instagram: @Shinobu Books

 

09:32 Early translations sparked controversy in ninjutsu community.

10:59 Ninjutsu's origins and popularity in Japan.

16:56 Enjoyed martial arts books, particularly by contemporaries.

20:19 Embracing the flow of translating martial arts.

22:27 Book on Japanese travel safety and magic.

24:31 Punishment methods in Edo era for safety.

30:03 Many scrolls lack detailed techniques and descriptions.

31:07 AI translates old, unreadable Japanese documents.

37:16 Acknowledging for bringing traditional martial arts knowledge.

37:54 Received another nice compliment on my books.