This blog post explores the author's journey into an ancient Japanese martial art, detailing the profound influence of his mentor, Shihan, and the spiritual and philosophical teachings that shaped his practice. It covers the unique training methods, the significance of weapon mastery, and the core values of the martial art, emphasizing personal growth, mental strength, and the importance of compassion and humility in martial arts.
Welcome to my journey of discovering an ancient Japanese martial art. As a common white guy from the middle of Europe, my path to martial arts was filled with coincidences that felt almost like a fairy tale. My mentor, whom I refer to as Shihan, believed our meeting was destined, hinting at a deeper connection that transcended mere chance.
When I first met Shihan, he recognized my potential as a disciple. Initially, I thought I was merely helping an elderly man, but our relationship blossomed into a profound friendship that crossed generational and cultural boundaries. At the time, I was in my 20s, while Shihan was in his 70s and widowed, having left Japan to travel the world after the loss of his wife. His choice to settle in my country was intriguing, especially given our long-standing relationships with various Asian nations.
My training experience was unlike anything depicted in movies or traditional martial arts schools. There were no dojos, mats, or competitions. Instead, Shihan emphasized the importance of an empty room filled with serenity, calmness, and patience. He believed that anyone could learn this martial art, regardless of their background or physical condition.
Shihan often stated that those who had suffered in childhood—whether from illness, abuse, or loss—were the most suitable disciples. He taught me that pain could lead to powerful spiritual values such as love, kindness, and compassion. This philosophy became a cornerstone of my training.
One of the first principles Shihan imparted was the importance of listening to our hearts. He explained that our inner feelings guide our decisions, helping us discern what aligns with our true nature. This principle applies not only to martial arts but to life itself. Understanding our true selves allows us to develop our strengths while letting go of harmful traits.
As my training progressed, Shihan introduced me to the philosophy and spirituality behind the martial art. This included learning to use various hand weapons, which played a crucial role in my development. Mastering weapons was not just about physical skill; it also fostered self-confidence and mental strength.
Initially, I was hesitant about weapons, having always been a pacifist. However, as I learned to handle them, my perspective shifted. I began to see weapons as tools for protection rather than instruments of violence. Shihan taught me that there are two paths in martial arts: one dark and destructive, driven by greed and power, and the other focused on peace, kindness, and responsibility.
When it came to selecting weapons, Shihan encouraged me to choose those that evoked positive emotions. I decided to craft my own nunchucks from hard walnut, which became my first weapon. Over time, I developed a strong connection with them. My journey continued with the discovery of the comma, a traditional Asian weapon that I felt drawn to through vivid dreams.
I also trained with a staff, known as a bow, and a shorter stick called hanbo. Each weapon taught me valuable lessons about strength, precision, and responsibility. The hanbo, in particular, became a favorite due to its versatility and practicality for self-defense.
The final weapon I mastered was the Dao sword, a unique blade that emphasized stabbing techniques rather than slashing. Training with wooden replicas initially prepared me for the real sword, which felt like a significant milestone in my martial arts journey.
A pivotal moment in my training occurred when Shihan presented me with several gifts that symbolized my growth. These included a gold ring representing his family tree, the Dao sword, and two ancient books filled with the wisdom of our martial art. The first book, "The Secret Martial Art," detailed combat techniques, survival strategies, and the importance of adapting to one’s environment. The second book, "The Art of Witchcraft," explored spirituality, meditation, and mentalism, offering insights into personal growth and interpersonal relationships.
The core of my martial art is deeply rooted in spirituality and mental growth. The teachings originated from a noble Japanese figure known for his healing abilities and mysticism. Practitioners of this art are few and often train in solitude, valuing nature and the wisdom it offers. They prioritize compassion, humility, and self-awareness, striving to live in harmony with the world around them.
In conclusion, my journey into this ancient martial art has been transformative. It has shaped my identity and instilled in me values that extend beyond combat. I hope to share more of my experiences and insights in future videos, continuing to explore the depths of this unique martial art and its teachings. Thank you for joining me on this journey, and I look forward to sharing more with you soon.
