Determined Training for Mind,

Body and Spirit.

The appropriate form of budo training requires an acceptance of the necessary changes that takes place within the body, mind and spirit to achieve a disciplined journey towards higher disciplined skill. These changes arise and develop strong innate character of individuals and a greater realisation of the qualities of the mind and surrounding environment.

The development of inner strength or "Ki" is vital for effective execution of technique which further refines the body and mind into a more healthy and natural state. Further training allows a greater alertness and mindfulness by practitioners not only of themselves but also of their opponent and the changing realities in their environment.

A proficient martial artist develops a sensitisation to the reality of constant change in the universe freeing them from distractions and desires and allowing them to properly focus on their training for greater proficiency. 

With  strenuous training there is a further progression of realisation not only of the qualities in their body and the individuals mental processes but also of their spirit as it carries them forward past the previous limitations of their body and mind into a stronger, more refined and enlightened individual. 

The traditional school of Okinawa Ryu Karate Do Shuri Te Seibukan hands down to the denshi - student a comprehensive learning curriculum, challenging and satisfying those who step across the threshold of the dojo wishing to attain such traditional disciplined budo skills through dedicated training.

Author: Petar Johnson Sempai.

THE ESSENCE OF SELF DISCOVERY

Through the passionate study of traditional martial arts, the essence of  “self discovery,” begins with the realisation and the cultivation of the relationship between the student and the Sensei.

This traditional relationship forms the foundation in which the martial art is handed down from the Sensei to the student, indeed it is essential the student be mindful not to compromise this time honoured relation ship.

Knowing how to speak to and respond to the Sensei is something, which the student ought to refine, as the moment in time and study are shared between the student and their Sensei. We are reminded that the term “Sensei,” has a deeper meaning other than that of “teacher.” When we separate the word “Sensei” into two parts, we have the first part “Sen.,” and the second part “Sei.”

The word “Sen” relates to, “previous/proceeding,” the representation of “Sei,” indeed is the birth of life or spiritual sincerity, this sincere meaning of “Sensei,” demonstrates the depth of the culture, which the traditional title is associated with. Indeed a true Sensei is the “living source of the traditional art,” which he/she represents. Throughout the years of traditional study under the guidance of my masters, I was told that, indeed the word “Sensei,” has a deeper significance that, of “ One who is spiritually born before another.”

For the student to display their traditional etiquette before their Sensei as well as in the observation of others, then the correct courteous term of title should be made, this also demonstrates to others that the student understands the true significance of this time-honoured etiquette.

“The essence of self-discovery,” within the traditional student is set in motion with the realisation of respect towards their Sensei, and the traditional martial art which is portrayed by the teachings and actions of the Sensei, as the student trains to gain a higher level of skill so to the student should seek improvement to polish and refine their budo etiquette.

In the Spirit of Budo

Garry O'Connor Hanshi