|
|
 |
There are more styles of Iaido today as many generations of masters for over four hundred years time span left their knowledge and skills behind. For each generation, further study of Iai lead to more discoveries, modifications and even new developments. However, not all modifications and new developments were just. Though Iai branched off to many different styles, we all share the common root, Hayashizaki Jinsuke, the founder of today’s Iaido and the use of “KATANA." During the Meiji Restoration in late 1800s, the original Dai Nippon Butoku Kai was established by the Imperial Japanese government to promote various samurai arts as combative sports. During this era, blending some of the western ideology with the old samurai traditions the term Budo was created. After the WWII, few Budo organizations brought together leading Iai-do masters from numerous styles and dojo(s) to promote Iaido under one governing body. In 1954, Zen Nippon Iaido Renmei was recognized by the Japanese government. In 1956, Zen Nippon Kendo Renmei began Iaido group. In 1957 the present Dai Nippon Butoku Kai was reestablished under the new charter.
|
At Kenbukan Iai-Do, our core and advanced training is focused on the Mugai Ryu Iaiheido; but first, Omori Ryu-Shoden and both Zen Nippon Kendo Renmei Seitei Iai as well as Zen Nippon Iaido Renmei Touho no Seitei kata are introduced.
Additionally, at Kenbukan Iai-Do Class Kenjutsu training, as well as Shinken (sharp blade) "Tameshi Giri" are considered irreplaceable elements in developing excellent swordsmanship. Shinken practices is permitted on our dojo floor reserved only for the Kenbukan 3 Dan and above holders, as well as ZNKR and ZNIR guests with 3 Dan and above qualification with a prior agreement.
Iaido seems like a simple art. On contrary, it is quite intricate and precise art. However, explained in the simplest terms, there are only four fundamental body movements in Iaido: Nukitsuke, Kiritsuke, Chiburi, and Noto, which practiced repetitiously.
- Nukitsuke - drawing of the blade from its scabbard
- Kiritsuke - cutting action or actions following the Nukitsuke
- Chiburi - blood removal from the blade
- Noto - returning of the blade to its scabbard
 |
 |
SEIDO PHILOSOPHY 【静と動】
The principle object of Iaido is to master the way of the sword through repetitious training of techniques. At Kenbukan Iai-Do, we implement an essential element known as Sei & Do we referred to as Sei-Do in our training. Sei-Do roughly translates to "Silent Movement". Precise movement in drawing sword is taught to reduce sound, therefore reducing resistance. Minimal resistance promotes more control and speed which are most essential elements in drawing the sword. At Kenbukan Iai-Do, Sei-Do is emphasized with utmost importance.
Shin Gi Tai (心 技 体） Training Emphasis
The practical and philosophical goal of all Budo arts is to bring the spirit, the mind, and the body together into one essence, known as Shin-Gi-Tai. Shin represents mind, heart and good spirit – practitioners should always be aware of what they are doing and consider the approach to the techniques. Shin can also mean spirit (i.e. ‘fighting’ spirit) that that is evident in our training. Gi represents skill, knowledge and experience – striving to perfect techniques in order to be able to perform them effectively and without hesitation. Tai represents the body and physical effort – taking every movement and making it part of the whole body in order to maximize its effectiveness. Maintaining healthy bodies enables rigorous practice and adaptability to changing situations.
Mastery of Budo, and the creation of this one essence, does not come easily overnight, or even in several years.
Repetitive training, year after year, fosters consistency, which fosters harmony between these elements. Furthermore, the body cannot be concentrated without also equally concentrating the mind. Harmony cannot be achieved if there is an uneven balance between training of the mind, of the spirit, and of the body. Conditioning the body to the precise execution of intricate martial art movements requires great physical effort and concentration of will. Budo training emphasizes defeating one's own weakness and persevering through discouragement, disciplining our minds and emotions in the face of fear or uncertainty, and analyzing the meaning of committing whole-heartedly to a path until success is secured.
Ultimately, with successful training and great effort, the art of higher living, the Shin-Gi-Tai harmony, will be attained.
 KENBUKAN IAIDO RENMEI - JACKSONVILLE, FL - JULY 10, 2015
|