The true heart of a martial arts school isn't found in the style it teaches or the trophies on its shelves, it's revealed in how instructors treat their students, especially the young and inexperienced. A teacher’s behavior on the mat speaks volumes about their character, training lineage, and commitment to the preservation of the art. And one of the clearest windows into this is how they demonstrate technique with those under their care.

One of the easiest ways to determine the skill and integrity of a martial arts instructor is to observe how they teach and demonstrate techniques on younger or less experienced students. This is a revealing moment, an opportunity to look into the heart of who they are and how their dojo truly operates.

When a teacher moves slowly and rhythmically, explaining technique with both words and controlled body movement, while ensuring their partner remains safe - that’s good leadership. It’s a sign of maturity, skill, and responsibility. On the other hand, when an instructor uses a slow, compliant attack as an excuse to explode with unreasonable speed and power, risking injury just to impress the crowd, it reveals something far less admirable. Especially when they follow it with a glance around the room, fishing for smiles or laughter.

That’s not teaching. That’s performance rooted in ego. And if you want your martial art to be taken seriously, if you want it to grow and serve future generations - this kind of amateur, dangerous behavior must stop.

Fortunately, traditional martial arts across the world come with generations of wisdom, documentation, and resources to draw from. But it takes discipline to access that depth. And discipline is exactly what’s missing when anyone can call themselves a “master,” fake their form, and rely on overly compliant uke and theatrical demonstrations. It all leads to the same destination: a student getting hurt.

If you’re a student who has witnessed this kind of recklessness, take this as a serious warning, leave that dojo. It’s a clear sign your instructor was poorly trained, lacks control, and is willing to put your safety at risk for their own gratification. Someone will get hurt ... maybe you.

And if you’re an instructor of Budo and this is how you were taught, believing that beating your students for a response from the crowd is the way forward, then I urge you: read the science. Understand sundome (the control and restraint at the heart of true technique). Bring your teaching into a space where students can grow, where the dignity of the art is preserved, and where mastery is measured by how well we protect - not punish - those who trust us.

Welcome to this episode of the Shugyo Podcast. This episode is my own perspective on the unique tool found in the traditions of Togakure Ryu, known as the Kyoketsu Shoge. This sickle, rope and ring has been the hallmark of the modern 'ninja', finding it's way on toys, cartoons and countless hours of discussion, yet almost no demonstration of it's use. 

In this episode, along with it's supplemental video found on our blog, I breakdown much of what I see as myth, drawn from the old work of Hatsumi Soke and twisted into the black cloaked ninja in smoke clouded mystery. My perspective is, it's much more simple and needs to be understood as that. 

I hope you enjoy this episode of the Shugyo podcast, please be sure to leave a comment and subscribe to this channel.  

As we bid farewell to 2024, Yasuragi Dojo wants to extend our gratitude and share some of the incredible milestones and new program developments from the past year. Plus, we're excited to give you a sneak peek into what's in store for 2025.

2024 Highlights:

Digital Expansion

Looking Ahead to 2025:

From all of us at Yasuragi Dojo, thank you for your continued support and dedication. We are grateful to have such a vibrant and passionate community of hard training students and are eager to embark on the journey of 2025 with you.

Stay tuned for more updates and exciting announcements by subscribing to our channels and downloading our mobile app!

Wishing you a prosperous and enriching new year,

Adam Mitchell, Yasuragi Dojo 

P.S. Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions, feedback, or just to say hello! We love hearing from you. 

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Visit our website: Yasuragi Dojo

I am thrilled to have the esteemed Joichi Hirao Sensei joining me in this episode of Shugyo. Joichi Sensei is a seasoned practitioner and instructor with a rich legacy in Judo, and specifically within the specialty of Kosen Judo.

From his childhood beginnings under the tutelage of renowned judo master Yoji Kurimura, 8th Dan, to winning International Championship titles (winning the EU Open, Lisbon 2014) to building an innovative approach in preserving traditional techniques through the Gatame Kosen Judo program, Hirao Sensei brings a wealth of knowledge and unique experience. We talk a lot about the 'old school judo', and how Joichi Sensei is committed to not letting it fade into history.

We'll explore the myths, nuances and methodologies within Kosen Judo, the role of physical conditioning in his approach to judo, and discuss how Hirao Sensei's international experiences have shaped his unique teaching philosophy.

Whether you're an instructor seeking to enrich your curriculum or an aspiring martial artist aiming to hone your skills, this episode is packed with valuable insights to elevate your understanding Judo history, practice and it's preservation into the future.

Connect with Joichi Hiaro Sensei:

WEB: https://www.kosenjudoonline.com/ 

INSTAGRAM: gatame.judo.japan   

YOUTUBE:  @gatamejudo   

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

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:

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 Office
TEL (1)-541-398-1088
68600 Warnock Rd, Lostine, OR 97857
[email protected]

Japan Office
TEL (81)-080-7234-8245
3-20-4 Asahidai, Owariasahi,
Aichi, Japan 488-0001

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.

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: [email protected]

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.

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. 

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: [email protected]

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.