Shugyo

Adam Mitchell
Shugyo

Exploring the unique and profound methods, philosophy and culture found in the transformative practices of traditional martial arts. This podcast is hosted by Adam Mitchell, from the Yasuragi Dojo, a registered Non-Profit (501.c.3) organization, solely dedicated to providing the best information and training resources for those interested in the path of self-mastery and discipline. Join us in conversation with some of today's most respected thought leaders who share their wisdom and experience, so that you can sharpen your own skills for living and appetite for disciplined training and adventurous living. The Yasuragi Dojo has been teaching Kobudo and cultural programs for over 25 years in the heart of Hudson Valley, Please visit our Dojo website to learn how you can participate in our programs, classes or retreats.

  1. Learning From Maasai, Spear Fighting the Elder Warrior

    13 AGO

    Learning From Maasai, Spear Fighting the Elder Warrior

    In today's episode, we'll delve into the captivating journey of I took into the heart of Kenya to immerse myself in the ways of the Maasai tribe. My purpose for being in Kenya, was to travel throughout the most poverty stricken areas to document the work the organization I work for has done, meanwhile connecting with the people and learning about the diverse cultures within this amazing country. During this time, my son and I were welcomed into a Maasai family, and they were honored to share with me something I've always wanted to learn, the Maasai spear, and their methods of fighting with it. From traditional Maasai weapons and techniques to the profound kindness and warmth of the Kenyan people, my experience offered a unique perspective on ancient practices and the resilience of communities facing socio-economic and hardened tribal challenges. Join me as I share the lessons learned from the Maasai, the significance of cultural exchange, and the spirit of gratitude in the face of darkness and adversity. Thank you for visiting and supporting our work at the Yasuragi Dojo. If you enjoyed this episode, please continue to support by subscribing to our podcast. If you are interested in stepping further into our 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

    59 min
  2. Saving Kominka, The Endangered Folk Houses

    30 JUL

    Saving Kominka, The Endangered Folk Houses

    There are 800,000 traditional buildings in Japan, some hundreds of years old, and the are abandon and being torn down at 10% each year. These incredible structures, forgotten representations of Japan's deep connection to master craftsmanship, will be gone within 10 years. But not according to our guests, Kunito Niwa and Andrea Carlson, from the Kominka Collective. Int his episode, you will learn about: The rich heritage of Kominka and the revival of traditional Japanese building methods through the incredible work of the Kominka Collective. The challenges and triumphs of salvaging, preserving, and repurposing materials from old Japanese structures. Keeping the spirit of Kominka alive in North America. Here are the key takeaways from our conversation: 🔸 The Art of Salvaging: The process of disassembling old buildings not only involves preserving the beams and structure frames but also unearthing hidden treasures like historical artifacts and notes by long-ago carpenters, showcasing the rich history and craftsmanship of Kominka. 🔸 Engaging in Cross-Cultural Collaboration: The collaboration between skilled individuals in North America and the Kominka Collective provides opportunities to learn and participate in traditional Japanese building methods, fostering a global community dedicated to preserving and promoting this invaluable heritage. As martial artists dedicated to the traditional Japanese Kobudo disciplines, our appreciation for preserving cultural elements and heritage is paramount. Let's continue the dialogue and work together to honor and perpetuate the legacy of Kominka for generations to come. If you are interested in the preservation of traditional Japanese architecture and craftsmanship, we welcome you to contact the Kominka Collective through the details below:  Website: The Kominka Collective, Facebook North American OfficeTEL (1)-541-398-108868600 Warnock Rd, Lostine, OR 97857contact@kominkacollective.com Japan OfficeTEL (81)-080-7234-82453-20-4 Asahidai, Owariasahi,Aichi, Japan 488-0001

    1 h y 29 min
  3. Kobudo Going Forward, with Manaka Unsui

    4 JUN

    Kobudo Going Forward, with Manaka Unsui

    This episode was recorded at the Shunpukan Dojo, in Noda-shi, following a week of training with Unsui Sensei. He sat us down to discuss how we should approach our study of traditional Japanese martial arts into the future. In this conversation, he highlights the importance of preserving the original Japanese mindset and the impact of technology on the human condition and the martial arts. Sensei emphasizes the need to return to a natural, primitive state for training, allowing martial artists to discover their potential and find balance.  What you'll take away from this episode: 1. Understanding the Original Mindset: Sensei emphasized the importance of understanding the original way of the Japanese mindset prior to World War 2 and how much of Bushido was implemented in their study. How can we maintain this mindset and apply it to our training today? 2. Embracing Nature and Tradition: Sensei discussed the impact of technology on our lives and the importance of aligning with nature. As we become more reliant on technology, maintaining our connection with nature and tradition will be crucial in our pursuit of both self and martial mastery. 3. Return to the Primitive Self: Sensei's message encourages us to step away from the constant input of technology and revert to our natural state. Whether it's through rigorous training, spending time in nature, or disconnecting from modern distractions, rediscovering our primitive selves is essential for personal growth and martial arts development.   ABOUT MANAKA UNSUI Fumio Manaka Sensei, who also goes by the martial name “Unsui”, has 70 years of experience in the Japanese arts of kobudo, having started training at the age of 14 as the first student of Masaaki Hatsumi Sensei. Unsui Sensei holds certificates of mastery (menkyo kaiden) in several martial schools and has formal training in many others. In 1996, Unsui Sensei founded the Jissen Kobudo Jinenkan. For many years Unsui Sensei made regular trips to the United States and Europe to conduct training seminars and to directly instruct his students. From April 2001 to May 2004 Manaka Sensei lived and trained in Baltimore, Maryland. His goal in this move from Japan was to allow martial artists in the United States and Europe easier access to him and to raise the level of training in these areas. With his goals achieved, he returned to Japan in June 2004 and now teaches from his hometown of Noda, Japan.   Thank you for visiting and supporting my work in preserving the Traditional Japanese Martial Arts of Jissen Kobudo at the Yasuragi Dojo. If you enjoyed this video, please continue to support by subscribing to our YouTube channel. 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 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.

    21 min
  4. Finding The Dao in Violence, with Jack Schaefer

    14 MAY

    Finding The Dao in Violence, with Jack Schaefer

    Today we sit down with Taoist Priest, Chinese Medicine practitioner and martial artist, Dr. Jack Schaefer as we delve into the heart of “dao” and it's ignored or misunderstood ... yet transformative power within the context of traditional martial arts.  Join us as we navigate the challenges encountered by Western seekers delving into the profound teachings of Daoism, it's purpose within both modern and classical martial arts, while unraveling ethical precepts, cultural intricacies, and the art of compassionate living. We will lead to an understanding that martial arts are not merely a means of self-improvement but can also be studied as a conduit for serving others, where non-duality and discipline intertwine to sculpt individuals of resilience and empathy. KEY TAKEAWAYS WITH DR. JACK SCHAEFER:  The Essence of “Dao” in Martial Arts: Central to the discussion is the concept of “Dao / Do” in martial arts, highlighting the vital role of personal commitment and dedication in mastering these disciplines. This ethos underlines the transformative power of martial arts beyond physical prowess. Unlocking Self-Mastery with “Dao”: Insights from Dr. Jack Schaefer shed light on the significance of “dao” in traditional arts, particularly for Western audiences seeking self-mastery and spiritual growth. The narrative emphasizes the transformative potential of martial arts for fostering self-discipline and inner evolution. Navigating Challenges in Daoism and the Violence of Martial Arts: We explore the complexities faced by Western practitioners studying Chinese Daoism, emphasizing ethical principles, cultural nuances, and compassionate living as integral components of the martial arts path. The Path of Self-Improvement and Service: Martial arts are portrayed as a transformative avenue for personal growth and service to others, emphasizing non-duality, discipline, and the delicate balance between competitiveness and holistic well-being. Parting Clouds’ Commitment to Authentic Daoism: A dedication to imparting genuine Daoist teachings to Western audiences through structured programs, online studies, and immersive retreats focused on philosophy, meditation, and historical insights. CONNECT WITH DR. JACK SCHAEFER Parting Clouds Daoist Education Email: partingthecloudsdaoisted@gmail.com Facebook ABOUT DR. JACK SCHAEFER I am a life long practitioner of asian martial and has spent decades in the study and practice of Chinese medicine and Daoism. I am an ordained Daoist priest and co-founder of Parting Clouds Daoist Education. We are a recognized Daoist temple organization located in the US with students in the US, Canada, France, England, Russia, Mexico, Australia, and Scotland. We aim to bring authentic Daoist teachings to the western word.   Thank you for visiting and supporting my work in preserving the Traditional Japanese Martial Arts of Jissen Kobudo at the Yasuragi Dojo. If you enjoyed this video, please continue to support by subscribing to our YouTube channel. 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 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.

    1 h y 9 min
  5. Stealing from the Mongolian Tiger

    10 MAY

    Stealing from the Mongolian Tiger

    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.

    34 min
  6. Death and Rebirth of the Bu Jin, with Sean Askew

    7 MAY

    Death and Rebirth of the Bu Jin, with Sean Askew

    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.

    1 h y 2 min
  7. Jishu Geiko, A Guide to Solo Kobudo Training

    16 ABR

    Jishu Geiko, A Guide to Solo Kobudo Training

    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.

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Exploring the unique and profound methods, philosophy and culture found in the transformative practices of traditional martial arts. This podcast is hosted by Adam Mitchell, from the Yasuragi Dojo, a registered Non-Profit (501.c.3) organization, solely dedicated to providing the best information and training resources for those interested in the path of self-mastery and discipline. Join us in conversation with some of today's most respected thought leaders who share their wisdom and experience, so that you can sharpen your own skills for living and appetite for disciplined training and adventurous living. The Yasuragi Dojo has been teaching Kobudo and cultural programs for over 25 years in the heart of Hudson Valley, Please visit our Dojo website to learn how you can participate in our programs, classes or retreats.

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