The Heart of Kendo: A Comprehensive Introduction to the Philosophy and Practice of the Art of the Sword - Softcover

Craig, Darrell Max

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1590300149 ISBN 13: 9781590300145

Publisher: Shambhala, 2002

Synopsis

"The martial arts, if taught correctly, are limitless journeys with no final destination," writes martial arts master Darrell Craig. "They are a way of life." He begins that journey here with the basics: sitting, breathing, and the all-important bow, or rei. He describes kendo equipment and its care, then progresses to some of the basic features of a kendo practice session: warm-up exercises, assuming the proper stance, grip, strikes, and positioning. Only then does he move on to the seven long-sword forms, or kata, that are the foundation of kendo practice.

But Craig's teachings go far beyond mechanics. Through stories and actual recorded conversations with his sensei, Harutane Chiba, thirty-seventh generation of a famous clan of samurai swordsmen, Craig brings you into the presence of a true legend from Japan's imperial dojo. He presents the history of kendo kata, including stories of the kendo duel of old and an appendix describing the goshi, or country samurai, about which little is known today even in Japan. Throughout, Craig emphasizes and demonstrates the respect, restraint, and discipline that lie at the heart of kendo, where the most important opponent to vanquish is oneself.

About this title

About the Author

Darrell Max Craig has black belts in ten different martial arts. In 1973 he was awarded the title of Shihan or master teacher—the equivalent of a knighthood in Japan and an honor rarely bestowed upon foreigners.

Review

"An informed and informative guide . . . an excellent introduction and resource to the physical and spiritual depth of this challenging martial art."— The Midwest Book Review

Edition details

• Publisher: Shambhala
• Publication date: 2002
• ISBN 10: 1590300149
• ISBN 13: 9781590300145
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 256