Happy New Year!!

Toshikoshi Soba on New Year's Eve. Jen and I gathered in front of the TV to watch the ball fall, eating the soba noodles. Happy New Year Roushiichi, Yachi-san and Yuta.

From Jen Suki, and Tony

COMIKE コミケ (**:)

165,000 attendees on the first day of this year's Comike ! And I fear that my daughter, set to graduate college next March is part of that statistic. What is Comike you ask? Well its short for Comic Communication (I think). Its a major event for comic lovers and cosplayers (costume players who dress up as their favorite character) Can you imagine how long it took just to get in the convention hall?
Some of the characters are far from the kids images. More suited for the daddies visual entertainment.
Sigh, Japan has its crazy culture which is hard to comprehend at times.
I just hope Michele did not go dressed as Pikachu! Thank goodness she is back to Pokemons. Until recently she was in Shinsegumi. Now, that I can imagine!


Not quite sure which cartoon characters these three are from !??!

Pikachu ??? GAAAAAAAAAH!!!!

Well, I hope my daughter had an enjoyable day. If she had only stuck to Karate.........Hmmmm. She's better off in the comic world. But you would be surprised at the large number of adults at this convention.

Sanchin

Tony,
Looked up some Sanchin on You Tube. There are so many variations out there. Some are slow and dynamic with emphasis on hip and ab preparation while others are quick with hardly and prerequisite hip/ab setups.  All are correct.

Higaonna Sensei's Sanchin (emphasis on hip and abs set up)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kybxNOlnl20

Gushi Sensei's Sanchin (note the lack of hip and ab setups)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B7YDkZrJ-V0

Ogawa Sensei's Sanchin (interesting posture)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fpLkMI1zEo8

A different version of Gushi Sensei's Sanchin (note the setting of shoulder muscles in the begining)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oz9_hL5mmWI

Goju Kai Sanchin by Yamaguchi Sensei
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EpEVNUIkVx8

and finally Kyokushin Sanchin (emphasis on ibuki)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKbTp42z5yA

Enjoy all the variations! (^^)

Bonus video! The ultimate way to test your sanchin !
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tc3ARNKXEDI

Breathing Question of Sanchin??

Sanchin of Okinawa karate, from M. Higaonna, Sensei

From:YouTube - okinawa karate p3

Sorry Could not publish the youtube video here.

In this youTube of Higonna, Sensei he discussed the breathing of Sanchin. I know Rouchiichi that we discussed breath (kokoro, kokyu-chikara). I have been working on the tanden with my jo, and working with the students to understand this tension of breath and how it relates to the movement of sanchin. Most nights I find this much like catching a storm cloud ( we are bracing for the first real winter storm of the season), just has I reach for it hits, and its gone. Both my students and I are getting better but I seen to hit the breath with the step, about one out of twenty attempts.

Please listen to Higonna, Sensei discuss the second form of breathing in sanchin:

"There are two forms of breathing in Sanchin. One is directly from the nose, down into the lower abdomen or tanden. The other is done with a feeling that the air travels…Up around the back of the head. Down the spine, and up into the tanden where it is wound up like a spring.

Both of these are done harmonizing the breathing with the movement

Press the feet hard into the floor and turn them outwards (inwards??) Tighten your thighs and your buttocks"……. M Higaonna

Finally the Question: Roushiichi have you ever hear the breath described like that?? The first part we have talking much about. The second was news to me.

Mele Kalikimaka

Mele Kalikimaka from New York!! I wanted to share a short note and image of Christmas from Our home in Stillwater. Jen and I will be with my brother Joe and Jodi and their family for Christmas Eve, and then Christmas Day will be with my Sister Laurie and John and family.

I am off to learn more about the Japanese New Year and its food. Roushiichi has sent Jen and myself a "care package" full of goodies for the holiday.

Here is to health and happy New Year!!!

All type-0 are Suki's fault she is walking on the key board....

Preparedness (**#)

     The past few days Hawaii has been hot with heavy rains and subsequent damages in the form of landslides and flooding has caused some havoc. An interesting comment from a city manager was to the effect "the drain off system didn't work....". Hmmm. This made me think of our martial arts training. Can we afford to make the same comment " it didn't work"?
     As I have written in the past, martial arts training should allow us to avoid or defuse conflicts, so we do not have to depend on the techniques we have learned. We learn to identify potential threats and take preventive measures. Simple common sense takes care most of the dangers. For example, not going to areas known to be crime ridden late at night (or any time for that matter), not to indulge excessive alcohol, to be observant when walking to your car in a parking lot. etc.  Several years ago, Japanese media "played up" how Japanese were being victimized in the United States. Well, the so-called victims were "delivering a bicycle to a friend late at night in a crime infested section of town"; drove to a 24 hr convenience store past midnight in a luxury car; sight seeing poverty areas, etc. Unfortunate that no one was able to input some common sense.
     Back to the topic  of "it didn't work". When we face a situation where not fighting is not an option, we will not be able to say later "it didn't work". This then becomes an often discussed and debated topic. Is what you are learning going to protect you? Those that have been in harm's way can understand that not everyone reacts the same way. Even simunition cannot replace the sound of an round zipping past you and the consequent reaction.  The Self defense drills cannot replace the "fear" of being suddenly attacked without warning or standing in the front row of charging demonstrators.  We can recreate to a certain level but we cannot recreate the actual tension and pressures of a real confrontation. After all, it's a class and when its over we all go home. Knowing that  it is a class and knowing that we will all go home is not the same as not knowing what will happen next.
    It is said Kata is the "Bible of Self Defense". I agree, there are many techniques that are applicable. I have actually seen my Sensei use the jodan uke in the fist movement of Gekisai 1 and take down rowdy Marines in bar. You might ask "Jodan Uke? Take down?" Isn't it a block against a head attack? That is where bunkai and oyo come in. It is a very long road from displaying kata to using kata. Now I ask myself, would I be able to do the same thing? Perhaps if I put in the hours that Sensei put in. But, as a weekend warrior? Hmmmm.
I recall  two incidents in Japan that have "influenced" (perhaps exaggerated) my view of martial arts.
      The first incident was a female Nidan who was attacked while hiking and murdered by a homeless. If we were to go by rank alone, then many would wonder why wasn't a karate nidan unable to protect herself?
I ask, what do we expect a Nidan to be able to do? What type of training did she have? Was bunkai and oyou part of her testing requirements? Was stamina and strength part of the testing? Or was it purely recreational?
     Nowadays, it the terms "alive", "reality base" "compliant/non complaint" are used extensively in advertising various schools. I believe that those terms may have some merit, but then my Sensei never used those terms and most of all he was able to apply the kata in actual confrontation. So I am confident that kata practiced wisely is effective, contrary to those who espouse the uselessness of kata training.
       The second incident was when a male reacted to what he thought was a female in distress, kicked the "antagonist" in the head with a jodan mawashigeri and knocked him down. The male subsequently hit his head on the street pavement and died. The "Samaritan" was sentenced to jail on excessive use of force resulting in death charges and spent time in a Japanese jail. Why a jodan mawashigeri to the head? A simple maegeri to the stomach wold have sufficed or even a gedangeri to the thigh. Or even a shitatsuki to the body.
He was a yudansha. What should we expect from a yudansha? Just techniques to knock someone down?
What happened to verbal skills? By the way, the couple was having a quarrel but it was not anywhere near a life threatening argument. 

      That is why need to pursue the path of Budo, the art of stopping conflict and not just the art of knocking someone down. (^^)

    Just some ranting on a rainy day !

Season's Greetings!

MERRY CHRISTMAS  (^^)

Absent from the photo are Hana, Tori, Travis, Benten, Riki , Takeru and Kyle's Dad.

 

 Happy Holidays from the pokemons, mommies, Tamura Sensei, Yachiyo and myself!

 

We hope you all have a Super Christmas and Happy New Year!

Thank you for everyone's  support this year and hope to make 2011 even better and spread the spirit of Jita Kyoei.

押忍！

道というものは、天地自然の道に外ならない。ゆえに人はこの道を行うもであるなら、天を敬うことを目的とすすべきである。天は人も自分も同一に愛給うゆえに、自分を居明日う心をもって人を愛するべきである。人を相手とせず、天を相手として力を尽くし、人を咎めず、自分の誠が足りないことをいつも反省しなければならない。西郷隆盛

Saigō Takamori (Takanaga) (西郷 隆盛(隆永）, January 23, 1828 – September 24, 1877) was one of the most influential samurai living during the late Edo Period and early Meiji Era. Saigo has been dubbed "the last true samurai". His statue stands at the entrance of Ueno Park in Tokyo.

Tony, your first Japanese lesson for 2011! (^^) Take your time. Fufu. 頑張って下さい！I think you may find Saigo's thinking similar to something Western. (^^)

Oh, by the way Take took first in the All Hawaii Tournament this month!

Yes folks. It does snow in Hawaii! (^^)

Snow on top Mauna Kea Observatory.

Yup. Thar u c genuine snow. I' m pretty sure it is as much as you see in New York or Japan.  It takes a while to drive up the volcano to touch the snow. (^^)  I do beleive some folks actually snowboard up there and then drive down to the beach do some surfing!

Tony and all, be careful driving out there! 

Yokohama, if it snows this year or early next year make sure to wear non slip boots! (^^)

The calls to 911 in Tokyo and Yokohama greatly increases when it snows! The folks don't know how to walk in the snow or iced sidewalks!

I dreaded driving up north to Niigata in winter months! Didn't have the driving skills! Gahahahaha. Thank goodness for the bullet train!

Christmas Holiday in New York

Traditions for New York

I will do my best this Christmas season to bring some images of the holiday here in New York. As I sit here, I wonder what I can show Yokohama and even Hawaii that is special about Traditions here in New York. Maybe Traditions don't have to be special...then again if we did lost them....then that might make them special again?

Well here is the first one from me...each year I make a little trip to the wood lot behind my home and collect the pine bows. I bring them home and attempt a Christmas wreath for the front entry to the house...this is the results for this year. The next job is the tree....but first a bit of rest. Oyasuminasai

Question for New York (^^)

What are your Christmas and New Year traditions we can share with Yokohama and Hawaii Dojos?
In Hawaii, due to its multicultural make-up, various Japanese, Chinese, Portuguese, Philippine, Korea traditions are incorporated into New Year festivities, especially in the food. (^^) Great buffets!

It may seem strange but in Japan.......the following two are inseparable for Christmas.

Strawberry Shortcake (^^)

Yup! A barrel of Colonel's finest!

Why? I have no idea! I recall that on Christmas Eve, all the Daddies would pick up a Cake to take home.
In Japan, Christmas is not a national holiday so everyone works the Eve and Christmas Day. As long as I can remember (from 1950's when I was a kid) the strawberry shortcake was a given for Xmas. A really big treat back then! If you can imagine a country that was rebuilding from a devastating war, a simple cake was a super treat for the kids. 
I do not know when KFC got into the act. It is now synonymous with Christmas. I would venture to speculate that perhaps the inability to roast a Turkey or bake a ham may have something to do with it.
American size ovens are still are rarity in average Japanese homes.
Yokohama, can you explain this phenomena for us? (^^)

New York Shinsa Today....

Mechanicville Dojo Kyu Shinsa December 11 2010.

Kyu Shinsa today for five Mechanicville Kesshin-kai students. I am hoping to save some short videos of the day. I also have some stills of the video does not make it though on the blog. This part of Shinsa was under the direction of Sensei Pat Martone. Today we had one member from each of our kyu ranks up to San Kyu. I wish I had the video running durning my Ido Kihon section of the test....I used much of Ookoshi, Sempai's Ido that you sent me in the DVD. By the way Roushiichi, you are becoming a expert with the video editing. I think that DVD will be a treasure for Sempai and his family back in Yokohama. Great work!!!

I also enjoyed Kumura Dojo's 2010 New Letter. I like you Roushiichi, am so fortunate to continue my karate journey. Arigato Gozaimasu to you Roushiichi for our wisdom, friendship, understand, and constant challenges to better myself on this way. To Shihandai William for my Nihongo Lessons. To Take, Sensei thank you to my introduction to AAU Karate, and a new understanding of kata. Mahalo to all. Seems Yachi, Sensei has been promoted in and out of karate. Congratulations on the Sales Woman of the Year, and your Hachi Kyu from Lowe Shihan's dojo. I also thank you for modeling kihon and oyo for my in all the DVD's. Mele Kalikimaka to you all!!

The second video is from the keri Ido today, I enjoy watching and looking for areas that I and the students of Mechanicville can improve on, so comments are welcomed.

Ido kihon II

I am not sure that the longer kata video will post. I missed the opening to Pinan sono ichi today, but I am sure you will be able to fill in the previous movements. I note of interest, we do not use migi tettsui kome kami. I have never seen any other dojo, use Shuto as we do here. I just got off the phone with my, Sensei Dan Sisto and we were taking about change to kata. We may be getting a group to review all the change and variation that have made their way into kata. It has not been lost on me the discussions we had on the kanji of kata, maybe its just a but more malleable "shape or form that cuts our earth" in New York (^^). Time will tell here in New York. I will close now Jen and I would like to tree decorate tonight. I have to be honest Roushiiichi, the woman of bootcamp took it out of me today ( I think, I twisted wrong, my right rib cage is very sore....I know I should be more careful.....I still learning about "old".

Pinan Sono Ichi

Sphagetti anyone?? (^^)

I just had to share this scene from one of my favorite movies, "Tanpopo" directed by Itami Juzo


Here's the link if embedding fails..... (**;)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z__PZq_aiQU
Now lets see how to eat Ramen (Chinese noodles)


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1XyoAZFREnY

Now my favorite scene. This reminds me of the countless functions I attended during my career in Japan. (^^)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PcMaZLiqVpI
I sort of wonder if we teach karate the same way.....Gahahaha
Have a wonderful day!

おせち料理 Osechi Ryori

Osechi Ryori

Did you know that in the "old days" there was no cooking done during the first three days of New Years?
So many housewives were busy at the end of the year cooking up Osechi Ryori in preparation for New Year. Of  course now you can order it at the local 7-11. (^^)
The ingredients used in Osechi actually have meaning. A quick run down follows.

Sato Imo (taro): fertility as many baby taros grom from one seed potato

Renkon (Lotus roots): hole in the root = ability to see the future

Gobo (burdock): as it grows straight in the soil = steadfastness

Ebi (lobster/prawm/shrimp): the bent back like the eldery = long life

Kohaku namasu (pickled white radish and carrots in strips) : festive red/white gift wrappings

Kuro Mame (black beans) : a wish to work in good health

Kazunoko (Herring roe) : fertility and prosperity

Tazukuri (Fried Sardine) : Wish for rich harvest as sardines were used as fertilizer

Kohaku Kamaboko (red/white fish paste cake) : red/white = auspicious colors

Datemaki ( rolled fish paste omelet): wish to improve knowledge and culture. Date also means flamboyant.
                                                       Maki = scroll

Kuri Kinton (chestnuts in sweet potatoe paste) : prosperity from the golden color of the dish

Konbu Maki (kelp rolls) : to be happy Konbu = kobu as in Yorokobu (to be happy)

Takenoko (Banboo shoots) : endurance and flexibility

Tai (Red Sanpper) ; fish used for all auspicious celebrations.

I sure miss the smell of cooking at the end of the year! Of course, I snuck a few bites while grandna wasn't looking! (^^)  Now if folks would stop going to MMA fights in New Year Eve and spend qaulity timw with family at home!

Tradtionally the Ameyoko in Ueno is packed with folks buying the ingredients for Osechi. The Ameyoko
(short for American Alley) was originally a blackmarket area for US goods illegally obtained from Occupation Forces right after World War Two. It then developed into a shoppong area for very cheap goods ranging form food to clothes. The National Museum of Art is close by as well as Ueno Park which is aslo famous for Cherry Blossom Viewing in the Spring. Lots of sake and shiochu flows throughout the day!
The local police is kept quite busy as well. (^^)

Entrance to Ameyko

Shopping fo goodies!

What kind of New Year traditions do you have in New York?

More entertainment from Japan for a lazy weekend!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IymzIP6eOo4

Some one please translate........

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LHCmZt1ZwBY

Only in Japan

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3SzQF5oBCmw

You can feel the spirit and energy from these ladies.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNU02ySnSVQ
 
My current  favorite song. Just joking (^^)  The real version follows.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVC6Xc2va8s

A lot better I think (^^)

Enjoy your Sunday!

Karate and Music

Please enjoy some modern music played with traditional Japanese instruments.
Kumite with such BGM would cetainly be fun!
Just in case the embedding was a no go here's the link!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=83pvYlCsWxg
Lyrico, the drummer has a solid Zenkutsu and Shikodachi! 基本だね！
I can imagine how much Kihon these two had to master to produce such great music!

Tsugaru Shamisen

Taiko (Japanese drums)

Karate has no borders, it is shared with the same spirit throughout the world.  I feel that music is the same. Music has no borders, it shares the same spirit. If we could all have the same spirit and feeling of mutual happiness and joy from each other the world would be a better place.
Please enjoy Celtic musicv played by a group of lovely Chinese ladies with traditional Chinese musical instruments.  Yes, I admit, my eyes focused first before my ears! (^^)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P8K7wKyYVHc

Another beautiful day in Hawaii. Listening to the music has energized me for the day. Looking  forward to my Pokemons this afternoon. Fufu, A different kind of music. Jita Kyoei, I get a lot from my Pokemons!
**For any first time reader, Pokemon refers to my kids in the karate class! (^^)** All sorts of characters!

Kumite vid on Kimura Dojo Blog

Managed to upload Vid #2 on the Kimura Dojo Blog.
Please check there! (^^)http://kimuradojo.blogspot.com/

Osu! Whew...perseverance, perseverance, perseverance (^^)

顔面有りの組手。

Decided to give it another try today......(**;) Persevere....Fufu. Definitely going to change servers.

Sunday, later in the afternoon: Not looking too good at this point. Well off to the showers and wash off the BBQ smoke. See what happens by the time I finish. (^^)  Nope, no go!

Sunday evening; I decided to challenge myself and edit the video into smaller portions. But first made sure I had a good copy of the video just in case I destroyed in it in the editing process. Well, there is first for everything. (^^)
Video editing mukyu. Gahahaha.  Now I am waiting for the upload. At least the screen looks a lot different from previous attempts! Gahahahaha.
Not looking good..............(**;) I wish there was a timer showing time remaining till completion. The unsuccessful notice comes at the end of a very long wait! Grrrrrrrrrrrrrr.
I'll retreat for now and try again. (**#)

Monday morning! Attack! Despair not. The spirit of Osu will prevail!.............I hope (- -;)

10 minutes passed.......Perseverance, Taegataki wo tae, Shinobi gataki wo shinonde.......(^^)
Makes me hungry for a BIG GREASY BURGER!!!!!!!!
20 minutes passed.....Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.
I can always mail a copy to Tony, I suppose. Yokohama has one already. Ooops I'll have to redo the comments in English on Tony's copy. Gahahaha. Oh well,  more rehab exercise for my right hand.
Sorry folks over an hour has gone by. Nuff for this morning! Gahahahaha
Better hit the books on vid uploading......Sometimes it goes so well and easy.........

No go! Sorry folks. Share the original DVD! Osu! (^^)

Ookoshi Senpai's kumite

Hmmmm. As I battle the problems of uploading the vids, a short explanation of the kumite testing.

The portion of hand attacks to the head. This was preceded by 7 rounds of Kyokushin style kumite.

After finishing the 3 rounds , he then fought Yachiyo for another three rounds and finished off with me as a sandbag for one round. A total 14 rounds, approximately 45 minutes.
Of course he had to go through kihon Ido and Kata prior to kumite.
A very good effort by Ookoshi Senpai. (^^)
Friday, Darn, it sure is taking a long time to upload (**;)
Saturday, No luck again........(**#)
Sunday, My third attempt to upload vids this morning. Time to change server perhaps. The connection is really erratic and a good test for my patience. Come on, Clear give me my $$ worth! (^^)

Sunday, 3 hours later success with the 1st vid, now waiting on the 2nd vid. Thank goodness it is Sunday and I have time! (^^). For you action fans, sorry no lightning rounhouse kicks or spinning hook kicks. I think by this time, Ookoshi Senpai was just thinking of the beer and shochu. Besides, my feet has an averison to going above the belt! It's tiring!

     I did not use my favorite throws and sweeps as the we fought on a concrete floor convered with very thin linoleum  squares. I have practiced ukemi on this floor and the damage to the body would have been too great. Perhaps next year or the following year if we manage to raise $$$$ to purchase mats, then we will incorporate throws, sweeps and groundwork in our kumite. (^^)
     Hmmm almost time go shopping for the BBQ with Take's Dojo. His Shihan, Mitomo Shihan is in the islands. They particpated in an IKF (International Karate Federation) tournament. on Saturday. Mitomo Shihan had brought along his junior high shool Prefectural Champ. Need to catch up on the stories! Of course to EAT!!!
    All in all I had a great time at the price of a swollen hand. Gahahahaha. Hopefully Ookoshi Senpai was able to get outof his seat when he reached Haneda. I am pretty sure he will be having the standard Yokohama Dojo Critique session at "Seahorse" replenshing his immune system.
    I am looking foward to my trip to Japan and seeing everyone at Yokohama in March 2011.
   Hopefully the uplaod succeeds!.
Well folks it looks like the upload failed, Will try someother day.
Aloha

Wokout for Jim

Konbanwa Roushiichi

I was asked by my Judo Friend, Jim Solan to give him a workout, his email was down, so I thought I might post it on the blog. I am not sure if anyone would also like it. Jim will be returning to the dojo in late December. He has added much to my understanding of Judo and ground fight, and is a true budo-ka. He has been power lifting for the last year or so, and wanted a conditioning workout, to get cardio back in shape.

1. Medicine Ball shuttle runs. I take 4 medicine balls 22, 14, 12, 10, 8lbs I have these in the dojo, so I use them. I place all four in the center of the dojo. I then start on the far right end. I run to the first medicine ball, squat and press the ball overhead, and then sprint back to my starting position with the ball. I then repeat with each medicine ball, until all are on my end. I then sprint to the far end of the dojo, first with no ball, and then come back for my first ball. I then squat and overhead press the ball and sprint to the far end of the dojo. I then repeat with each of the other medicine balls until all the balls are on the far end of the dojo, and then finally sprint back. This is a bit like the old fashion UCLA’s from High School days. I have been working on 1min timed

2. I then take one medicine ball and do body weighted squats touching the medicine ball with my butt. I do this for 3-4mins. The last 20 seconds of each minute I hold the squat in the down (seated position for a 20 sec count).

3. I then do a pyramid of push-ups with kneeling dumbbell military press. I start with 10lb hand dumbbells and now use 15lbs. Reps from 1 pyramid to 10 reps. I use a yoga matt for my knees.

4. Last one is a pyramid of burpees from 15 down to 1. I start on left end of dojo do 15 burped and sprint to the far right end do 14, I then pyramid down to one.

100th post! (^^)

After finishing the test. Contrary to the smiles we are both HURTING! (^^)

How appropriate that Ookoshi Senpais promotion test is the topic for the 100th post. And how time flies, rather,  it is amazing that I can jabber and yabber this much! (**;) To be honest, I never thought that I would do a ten men kumite over again especially on the week of my 60th birthday. 20 men and 30 men kumite was done when I was way younger and at the minimum practicing 5 days a week. Since leaving Japan, I had not done any kumite with exception of my Pokemon gang. (^^) So I would be lying if I wasn't quite sure how this promotion would turn out.
Well, it turned out better than I hoped for. My stamina did not run out, I was able to avoid or block most of the attacks. My experiment with headgear and hand attacks to the head confirmed my thoughts on kumite.
I'll write more on that after my hand gets back to normal. I'm hen pecking the keyboard for now.
But for today I want to dwell on three aspects of Budo. Of course there are more.
1. Shinnen or Belief
2. Challenge
3. Perseverance
Both Ookoshi and Iwasaki Senpais started karate in their early 50's and ended up testing for shodan in their late fifties. What made them stick to it? I believe it was their belief in our training, the willingness to accept the challenge of changing their lives at this stage and of course perseverance. Their spirit supported my spirit.
Their willingness to meet challenges bolstered my acceptance of challenge. Their perseverance solidified my perseverance. Jita Kyoei. But even before that, the meaning of Hito 人、one cannot stand alone. We are what we are because there is always someone supporting you. For this, I thank all my students in Hawaii and Japan. They all are the source of my love for Budo and keeping my candle lit.
Well, got 2 hours worth of video to edit and burn before Ookoshi Senpai goes back to Japan (^^)
I 'll post some in the near future.
Don't forget to work off all that good stuff you ate yesterday!
Osu!

Sad state of affairs in Asian Games



What is going on? Has sportsmanship disappeared?

     Strange things have been happening at the Asian Games. First, I caution readers that I am writing this based on news reports I have seen and will be the first to point out that I do not have all the facts.  But as the saying goes, where there is smoke there is a fire. In any competition, sportsmanship is foremost. Without sportsmanship there is no value in competition. More so if government efforts are made to provide their own teams unfair advantage.
1. It is reported that in soccer foreign teams were not allowed to practice on the actual field the matches were  held. Reason being that they (Chinese host) did not want the turf damaged. Hmmm, but the Chinese team had been practicing on it before. As you know, knowing the turf on which you play is critical in soccer, as it affects the speed and direction of the ball.
2. In foot volleyball ( forgot the name of the game)  in which Malaysia is a contender for the gold, the Chinese team demanded that the referees be Chinese! Powers to be ensured the line judges were Chinese. Strange that all or most calls went against the Malaysian team....(**;)
3. In kayak paddling, the Japanese team, contenders for the gold, were denied practice at the course. Reason being it was under construction. Strange that the Chinese team had access and practiced. Hmmm.
Guess who won?
4. In a soccer match, penalties were given to the opposing team to a point I think it set a world record for penalties. Guess which team didn't get penalized and won.
5. In  taekwondo, a Taiwanese competitor, gold medal contender, was disqualified while leading and clearly overwhelming her opponent on charges of illegal footwear. The WTF approved and specified foot wear had been checked and passed prior to the match. A portion of the footwear (WTF approved) was even removed prior to the match. They allowed the match to proceed. Guess who won the gold?
6. The female Judo player who won the gold looked as though she had just finished a boxing match. The North Korean player wasn't penalized once! An elbow strike was also included! The Japanese player fought her finals with one eye completed closed. The refereeing was really bad in several other matches as well.

My question is what did the governing bodies of the sports do? Isn't looking after the welfare of the players part of their job? Very strange.
I am sad that such affairs, if true, took place. Nuff said




Think of the person's hands and feet as swords. Hmmmmmm.



I previously wrote on this back in August. Just a little different take in the same topic. (^^)

The 15th principle in Funakoshi Gichin’s “ The Twenty Guiding Principles of Karate” is 人の手足を剣と思え [Think of the person’s hand and feet as swords] There are several interpretations of this. Personally I like the interpretation that the message is “don’t underestimate your opponent”. I think Tony can relate that in some domestic disturbances, the threat suddenly comes from the original victim. Always need to be on our toes. Always be prepared.

I want to take a look at this principle from a different angle. Of course, as usual, I am simplifying the concept and I can see some Senseis laughing and wondering “where did this kookoo come from?”.

Let’s start from taking the principle at “face value”. “Think of the person’s hands and feet as swords.” Hmmm. My first interpretation and reaction is “Don’t get hit”. After all, getting cut by a sword definitely diminishes your capability to protect yourself.  To take it further, if the key is in not being hit, the emphasis and focus on training should be avoidance techniques such as taisabaki, irimi and mastery of maai (distancing).

Now, let’s look at it from a full contact perspective. What is the core requirement in full contact? I believe it is the ability to take punishment. From the start we punch and kick each other to develop the body and SPIRIT to take physical punishment. Not to waver from the attack and return the favor ten fold. (^^) What is one of the requirements for testing? Kumite and the ability to be standing at the end of the 10 kumite sessions doing the famous Kyokyushin "shuffle" (^^)

So I ask you? Where did the 15th principle go to? Fufu.

Looking forward to Thursday's Junin Kumite. Hmmm I wonder if I can last? After all I haven't done any "real" kumite for since leaving Japan. (**;)  Oh well, a good way to celebrate my surviving 60 years!!
I have added a twist to the normal junin kumite. Half will be done with hand attacks against the head.
Light contact naturally. Don't have an abundance of brain cells functioning properly. Just want to try out a theory of mine with regard to Kyokushin style training (at least the ones I have been exposed to)

Challenge

Perseverance is the key to any challenge. The OSU spirit

On Saturday, there was a promotion test at Yokohama Dojo and another special test coming up here in Hawaii on Thanksgiving Day. Our Dojo has only one promotion a year based on the fact that there is only one practice a week for an hour and a half. If the adults warm up with the kids, then they practice for about three hours. It is the same here in Hawaii. So you can imagine, if you don't pass a test you have a year's wait to challenge again. For kids that is tough to bear. But I believe it teaches perseverance.  I remember the days when it was just white and black and you found out you were promoted when Sensei told you after practice one night. We didn't practice for wanting a new color belt. Well things change.

Colored belts are not a bad thing. But even with kids, they know themselves without any colored belts whether they have been practicing or not.  Oops I got sidetracked!

One of the students tested was Iwasaki  Senpai. It has been five years since he and Ookoshi  Senpai joined the Dojo on a challenge from a mutual lady friend who had joined earlier. They had even plotted to quit after the first testing. (^^) Iwasaki and Ookoshi Senpais were scheduled to test for 1 Kyu which requires a 8 man kumite. Upon consultation with my Shihandai, William, I decided to have them test for Shodan. After all its only 2 more additional kumite sessions. Fufu. I am happy to report Iwasaki  Senpai had passed with flying colors. At 4:30 am Hawaii time, he was busy comforting his body at at our usual watering hole with his Dojo mates.
Both Senpais hold important positions in their work; Iwasaki Senpai as a CEO of a medical equipment company and Ookoshi Senpai as an administrator in the Special Investigations Division of the Tokyo Procurator Office, Ministry of Justice. The responsibilities of their positions require long hours at work. Yet they manage to still train and also support Yokohama Dojo. It is the same with Shihandai with his Medical School, Furuya Senpai with his police duties, Nakagawa and Niimura Senpais with their own family businesses. They all face the challenge of pursuing the path of Karate within their lives. They all give back to the Dojo in the spirit of Jita Kyoei.
It certainly was challenge to start Karate at the age of 53 and to persevere 5 years to take the Shodan Test at 58. Not to mention having to complete the ten man kumite at that age. And to think their Karate is just starting! Shodan is the starting line for all of us.
Students such as Iwaskai and Ookoshi Senpai provide me with the energy and desire to continue on my Budo path. Arigatou.
Otsukaresama to all those who took the test!
OSU!



Promotion Exam in Yokohama

A report from Shihandai William (^^)

Last night Kenshinjuku Yokohama Dojo had its annual belt examination. A total of 21 children and 8 adults took the exam. We started off practice with the usual routine. Meditation or “Mokusou” helps us prepare mentally before any practice to attain a calm state of mind, as well as it allows us to focus on our breathing. We then warm up and do stretch exercises. I count up to four in Japanese and the kids and adults follow with “five, six, seven and eight”. The children’s Kihon curriculum consists of tsuki (punches) in Heiko stance, Shiko stance, uke (blocks) in Heiko stance, and ashi waza (kicks). The first four moves are done slowly followed by 20 full speed reps, each with kiai.
After a short break and a 10 minute kata practice session, I administered the kata examination. White belts are required to do the basic Kihon Kata. As children go up in rank, they are required to perform different kata from the Heian (Pinyan) series. Upper classmen and black belts usually have mastered these kata so they learn the various Goju-Ryu kata such as Gekisai, Saifa, Seiunchin, Sanchin and so forth. The importance of kata is knowing applications to each movement and its practicality.　Otherwise the movements will have no meaning and it becomes just a dance. I teach the kids that when posture, timing, kiai, and eye contact all come together at the right moment, we have “Kime”. The energy flowing up from the ground through our thighs, next through the center of our body, and then to our finger tips, whether it be a punch or block, will be transferred to our opponent. Any unnecessary tenseness in our muscles or lack of Shime (tightening) will obstruct the flow of this energy and the kata becomes dead.

The last part of the belt examination was kumite (sparring). Each child had to spar for one minute: 30 seconds attacking, 30 seconds blocking. The number of opponents depends on their rank. During the adult belt examination, brown belt Kobayashi-kun had to fight eight opponents and Iwasaki-san fought 10 people. Both of them were limping at the end from all the Gedan kicks to the thighs and their chests were bright red from all the punches! My hat’s off to them both!

We will try to get pictures up on the blog for everyone to enjoy. In the meantime, practice hard and play hard!
Osu!　
Yokohama Dojo Shihandai William  Fox

My comments.
(^^) I look forward to testing William and the Black Belts in March of next year!
21 kids! Gaaaaah. I have enough on my hands with my 15 Pokemons in Makiki!
Looking forward to the pics!
Mahalo for the report William!

November Potluck

Target sticks in action. The kids love to use the sticks. Need to keep an eagle eye and make sure it doesn't turn into a chanbara session (swordfighting). (^^)

Reaction drill in session. This is when I get my workout for the month! (^^) The adult version follows below.

 

The main attraction for the Pot Luck was the BUBBLE LADY. Now, if the kids would pay as much attention to practice as they did for the Bubble Lady, it would be heaven! (^^)



Heroes or Terrorists? A glimpse (RTK version) of Japanese history

 

Shinsengumi

For me the most exciting period of Japan was after Japan opened up to the West following U.S. Commodore Matthew Perry's visits in 1853.  It was definitely an era of political turbulence pitting Japanese against Japanese. Feudalism vs Modernization.  One political though was sonnō jōi: "Revere the Emperor, Expel the Barbarians. Acts of murder and violence in Kyoto, the imperial capital were committed by samurai loyal to the emperor . In response the Tokugawa Shogunate formed the Roshigumi (浪士組), a group of 234 master less samurai (rōnin) led by Kiyokawa Hachirō to protect Tokugawa Iemochi, the 14th shogun who was preparing to headed to Kyoto. 

However in a twist of fate, the Rōshigumi, upon reaching Kyoto was told that there real goal was support followers of the Emperor. This caused the majority of ronins loyal to the Tokugawa regime to return to Edo while 13 of them remained in Kyoto and formed the Shinsengumi. as stated above, was funded by the Tokugawa regime. The Shinsengumi 新撰組 was originally known as the Miburo, "Ronin of Mibu, Mibu being a suburb of Kyoto where they were posted. They soon became known as the "Wolves of Mibu" 壬生浪based on early disreputable actions. The Shinsengumi members were originally also known as the Miburō meaning "ronin of Mibu", Mibu being the suburb of central Kyoto where they were stationed. However, the reputation of the Shinsengumi became tarnished quite early on, and their nickname soon changed to "Wolves of Mibu".
 

The Shinsengumi in its formative stages had its own internal conflicts in which various faction leaders were assassinated. In the final run, the Shinsengumi was controlled by Serizawa Kamo and Kondō Isami. The group was then given the task by the Aizu clan to Kyoto and counteract revolutionaries who supported the emperor against the Tokugawa shogunate.

The Chōshū clan was  forced out of the Imperial court by the Tokugawa regime comprised of Aizu and the Satsuma clan.  The Mibu group was sent to Aizu to keep Chōshū out of the imperial court by guarding its gates. This in turn created in Kyoto a power shift in the political arena in Kyoto, from the extreme anti-Tokugawa Chōshū forces to the pro-Tokugawa Aizu forces. It is believed that the name "Shinsengumi" was coined at this time for their job in guarding the gates. Shinsengumi could be translated to "Newly Selected Corps" (Shinsen 新撰 "new chosen ", gumi組 "group").

The Shinsengumi's greatest claim to fame was the Ikedaya Affair of 1864, in which they prevented the burning of Kyoto. However, their reputation had been tarnished by many reckless acts by its leaders such as Serizawa and Niimi. Rather than being viewed as keepers of peace they were feared. Niimi Nishiki, was ordered to commit seppuku (self disembowelment) by Hijikata and Yamanami. This was soon followed by Serizawa's assassination  by Kondō's faction ordered by Matsudaira Katamori.

The Shinsengumi remained loyal to the Tokugawa regime and  left Kyoto after the withdrawal of Tokugawa Yoshinobu. They were then posted as security forces in Fushimi and participated in the Battle of Toba-Fushimi. Kondō Isami was captured while fighting in the outskirts of Edo and beheaded by the Meiji government. A group of Shinsengumi men under Saitō Hajime fought in defense of the Aizu domain, and many of the others went on northward under Hijikata, joining the forces of the Republic of Ezo (Hokkaido).  1869 is seen as marking the end of the Shinsengumi.

Well, that is it in a very small nutshell. It is more interesting than this summary for sure.  In Japan the Shinsengumi is still revered and many movies, plays and novels abound about their exploits. I would recommend reading on them. I, for one, sort of see a resemblance of this group with many other groups around the world, some even labeled as terrorists. Were not the Minutemen considered terrorists by the British? Doesn't  the internal strife among the Palestinians in Gaza with the various faction transpose itself with the era Shinsengumi? Perhaps its is my imagination.

By the way, my daughter is a fan and avid follower of the current comic series based on Shinsengumi characters. Her Blog is filled with shouts of "Hijikata!!!!!" (^^) She never did like history in school!

I believe that she has already collected the entire figurine set for the series!

She is also a fan of this series. Hmmm. But then she is majoring in theatrical arts. so I guess it is a natural flow. I also heard that the job market in Japan for voice actresses is pretty slim. (**;)

To Yokohama Dojo, allow me to pass on the translation for now. ( - - ) Later perhaps.
横浜道場の皆、今回の翻訳をパッスさせてください。多分後でやりましゅー。ゴメン。ペコ

Sanchin Shime in Mechanicville's Dojo

After watching Sanchin Shime by Higaonna Sensei on Han Sensei at the Miyagi Festival in 2010, I feel awkward in posting my “checking” of Scott-san sanchin kata durning our last kyu shinsa. I am sure that Scott’s Sanchin would be better under Higaonna Sensei, watchful eye… Found this YouTube very interesting on tandan...( I also could not get the youtube to post)

YouTube - Sanchin shime Higaonna Sensei #1.MOV

YouTube - Sanchin Shime Higaonna Sensei #2.MOV

Red, White and Blue

     
     I briefly touched upon this subject in my comments in response to Tony Sensei on the Child Safety issue. As Amercians we all have pride in our country. No one is less American than the person next to him. Regardless of race, creed or religion we are all Americans. A Japanese-American is no less an American than an Italian American, Irish American or Korean American. Like wise a Christian is no less an American than a Buddhist or Muslim. There were and even now times in which our allegience to our country is questioned because of our backgrounds.  Yes, at times we “blinded” by it. Reasons are numerous.

We were Americans then as much as now.

      Well let's put that aside and concentrate on Budo. It is no different in the martial arts. We all have pride in the art we follow. But this pride at times make us blind and build a wall of animosity and distrust contrary to what Budo is all about.


     Many moons ago I had told Tony Sensei about a fellow soldier who had practiced Karate in United States. I recall his style being Shotokan. He, in my mind, was fortunate to be stationed in Okinawa, the birthplace of Karate! Yet, this young man refused to practice at any Dojo in Okinawa as it was “all inferior” and that Shotokan was the only true karate. (**;) Hmmmm. Did they not teach history in his Dojo? Here as an opportunity that many could only dream of and he was throwing it away. I did try to explain to him the origins of karate, but alas, fell on deaf ears. He would not budge from the mentality that his style was the one and only supreme style of karate. Now that is believing! Many of the ills in this world are rooted in similar thinking.  Pride is one thing. To blind yourself to the rest of the world is another. Pride becomes Prejudice.

Nope! Okinawan Karate isn't the real thing! My Sensei told me so!

     Unfortunately, ypu can still see this in the world of karate. It also exists in other martial arts as well. Aikido, Kenpo, Kung Fu, etc. Now we have “reality based” or “alive” styles that promote “the real deal” and eschew so called “traditional arts”. The only martial art, that I know of, that has not been affected by this type of mentality is Judo. No separate styles, no off-shoots, no one claiming to have inherited Jigoro Kano Sensei’s Judo. Yes, there are Senseis that have their own style of teaching methods but it remains Judo. The formal Judo Katas remain the same whether it be Tokyo or Mechanicville.



Student: Sensei! Do I turn right on the opening on Heian 1?
Sensei: Ahhhhm, In U-ryu, it's left, In No-Ryu it's 30 degrees to the right, and Our-ryu it's..........

I also find "finding our roots" interesting. Being a third generation Japanese Amerian I hold Japanese traditions dear to my heart. But at the same time wearing a Rising Sun headband is not my cup of tea.
I recall a time when Japanese-Americans had a surge of "finding their roots" and we began to see these headbands on many occasions. Thank goodness kids didn't come to class in haori and hakama with two swords at thier waist! (^^)  Finding one's roots is not just visual, ity has more to do with the soul.
I dread seeing those Kamikaze head bands as well. I think there are many other ways of showing your roots.

Gaaaaah! よしてちょうだい！！

Now I can handle this! (^^)

or this

AUMMMMM. Let me be.

Competition

Ahhh, Competition. A topic that can be debated for hours, days, months, years. (^^)
競技、何時間、何日、何ヶ月、何年も答弁できる課題である。
Does it nurture mutual respect? Yes and No
お互いの尊重を養う？イェスとノー
Does it develop self control? Yes and No
自己コントロールを養う？イェスとノー
Does it nurture mental development? Yes and No
精神面の発達を養う？イェスとノー
Does it teach core values? Yes and No
基本的道徳を教える？イエスとノー
So on and so on. In Japanese we say Sanpi Yooron, literally  Yeas and Nays.
など等。日本語では賛否様論と言う。イェスとノー
     Tony Sensei and I have competed. Tony longer than I have. I have seen the best and the worst in competition. I have concluded that it all hinges on the instructor and parents. Whether competition is good or bad is affected the non-competitor. Interesting.
トニー先生と自分は試合経験がある、トニー先生は自分より長く。その間競技の良い所と悪い所を見てきた。結論を言えばそれは指導者と親の掛かっている。協議が選手でないものによって良し悪しが決まるのは興味深い。
Ooops Looks like the embeddeing isn't working again. Here's the link
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cTTTUBDx_28

A example of the dark side of competition. What does this teach the child?
I feel that competition can be healthy for a child or adult as well. If approached and guided correctly.
Participation should not be based on any one's ego. But then how do you compete without an ego?
Then we have to grapple with the idea that Budo is to stop conflict. Remember the Kanji? To Stop Two Halberds. Doesn't competition promote conflict? (**:) Hmmm. Muzukashii desu ne.  If we teach karate and we say "We use it only as a last resort. It is not to be used frivolously." How do we explain competition?
競技の悪い面。これは子供に何を教えるのだろうか？
自分は協議は子供と大人には健全で居れらるとおもう。きちんと指導をすれば。
参加は誰のエゴでするものではない。しかしエゴ無しで競技ができるのだろうか？
その上、武道の本来の意味「戦いを止める」との関連を考え無ければならない。
競技は戦いを前提にするのでは？難しいですね。空手をしどうし、その中で「空手は最後の手段として使う、むやみに使っては駄目です」などと教えた場合競技をどう説明するべきだろうか？

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ge9CuM1YkE
A even worse example (there is more to what you see, however......(**;)
これはもっと酷い例。（見た部分よるももっとあるが。。しかし）
***Warning*** Taking parts of a video sometimes do not tell the whole story, we often react only to what we have access to. Never the less, as a referee and a high ranking Sensei, this type of incident should never take place. Fufu. Videos remind me of my days in the Army Psychological Affairs Unit. One of our tasks was to come up with ideas on how to brainwash the "enemy". One of the things we learned was how to edit or clip a photo to tell a completely different story from the actual incident. So as in the above video we do not see the entire story and what led up to the incident. But, as earlier stated, the Sensei should not have taken such action.
注意！ビデオの一部だけでは全体の話が見えないそして見える部分でけで反応する。しかしながら、審判、高段者としてこのような行動は起きるべきではない。昔軍隊で心理作戦部隊にいたいときをおもいだす。そこでいかに写真を編集してむるっきり事実無根の話を作るかを教わった。
上記ビデオも同じように話の全部は見れない、しかし前にも書いた用に先生たる者が取る行動ではない。

Finally
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_36OpchdG6w