Iaido or Iaijutsu can be deceptively simple in its movements but like anything simple in nature, there are profound depths to explore. In nature, a tree can appear as a block of green color from a distance. A leaf is almost indistinguishable from other leaves near it. Moving closer and inspecting further we can find the details. Martial arts are similar. At first, the gross movements don't appear to be much at all. After a time we find there is a world of detail to explore.
The basic components of iaido are drawing the sword (nukitsuke), cutting with the sword (kiritsuke), symbolically removing blood (chiburui) and returning the sword (noto). Learning the art of Japanese sword has a lot to offer physically and mentally.
Is Learning Iaido Online Viable?
I had doubts when I first opened the school to online teaching. Initially I did not set out to teach anyone online. Organically it unfolded over time and I found that teaching my students overseas via the internet worked. I often gauged online learning with that of students physically in the dojo. I fine-tuned my approach in teaching and now feel confident that someone can learn this via my online methods. Learning iaido online does require a more dedicated individual. It is the same as working from home. If you can not motivate and focus yourself then it is likely not to work. Making time for training is paramount. Our school does not enroll people en-mass. Strict rules and guidelines must be followed. It is for the dedicated and serious practitioner. Of course, not everything can be transmitted and learned online, but the bulk of learning is transmittable. For information learning these arts online please check this page.
Some reasons to practice kenjutsu and iaijutsu:
Investigating through experiential knowledge the historical arts of the samurai and sword fighting in Japan.
Improving our character and quality of life through the mental and physical challenges of bujutsu practice.
Cultivating a calm attitude during times of stress and duress.
Exploring the subtle physical energies and strategies involved in sword combat.
Recientemente tuve una conversación con alguien que se refirió a su escuela como una genuina escuela samurai. Insistía en que su escuela era auténtica y …
Today I decided to write the four kanji compound of morohanotsurugi. In English, we might say, Double-Edged Sword.
Though there is a meaning that through misuse …
Practicing and Studying
There are two main words used about practicing and learning in martial arts. Generally, we wouldn't say, I do martial arts, but rather …
Be thankful for your mistakes, failures, and blunders.
They are your own teacher reminding you of the middle and correct way.
Be mindful of your shortcomings. Just …
No matter what, move. Advance. Unceasingly against whatever odds, internal or external, move towards the light. Find the path forward. Always make progress. This is …
Some Japanese schools or individuals wish to capitalize on the ignorance of non-Japanese martial artists or gaijin (foreigner). If a Japanese 'koryu' is asking you …
Good Posture = Efficient Movement
A graphic I made for a student talking about the differences between efficiently striking the head in a basic manner and …
Maai 間合い
Combative spacing or maai is important to investigate early on and come to understand. In weapons combat it is essential. Although at some point …
This is important to understand when practicing historical or classical martial arts. Although the sword is not part of everyday life and death struggle the …
