Resources on Gyaku-Dou (逆胴)

Here is a small collection of resources on striking gyaku-dou (also referred to as hidari dou) for students at the dojo, where I practice at and to all who are interested in learning how to do gyaku-dou.   It is a useful

Extending the Life of the Shinai (竹刀)

This a brief article on some ways to help extend the life of the shinai (the bamboo sword) for the beginners at the dojo I practice at and all who find that their shinai‘s do not last long.   I present a short version and a

Synchronizing the Strike with the Hikitsuke (引き付け)

This article is intended for those, like me, who may find it difficult to strike, with power and consistency, the small men-uchi (小さい面打ち as demonstrated at 0:15 of [RemaKendo SmallMenUchi]).  It covers: some Background explaining the impetus of this

Men Kaeshi-Dou (面返し胴) – Quotes and Resources

Here is a collection of quotes and resources (in terms of  articles and videos) on the Men Kaeshi-Dou (面返し胴)  technique.  This collection will likely grow as I discover more.

A Fun Way to Teach Kids – Using Booboos

This article describes a “fun” approach to teaching kids in general and kendo specifically.  It is an approach that I use from time to time that seems quite effective.

The Paradox of Efforting and Non-Efforting

Here’s some stories related to the paradox of efforting (trying) and non-efforting (the absence of trying) in kendo and life.  On how efforting can sometimes lead to so called failure and how non-efforting, to unintended success.  It is also

My Life in Two States and Some Ways to Return Home

I reflect on my experiences on the “way” (道) and summarize in this article:  my life which seems to toggle between two (cognitive) states and some ways that I have found helpful in finding my way home back to the second state.

Quotes on Surrender and Acceptance

Here’s a small collection of quotes on surrender and acceptance in the following sections:

Somatics for Chronic Shoulder and Neck Tension Relief – Videos

This article lists some Somatics exercise videos (below) to release chronic muscle tension in the shoulder and neck areas and to experience (hopefully) long term and lasting relief.