The “Whispered Ah” – for Calmness, Muscle Relaxation and the Posture

I was recently reminded of an Alexander Technique known as the “Whispered Ah” – developed primarily for those in the performing arts [Josefsberg Breathing] [Dias WhisperedAh, p. 4] [Breaking WhisperedAh].   It is a very simple technique that initiates,

The Achilles Tendon – Ways to Help Protect It

This article is about ways to take care of the Achilles tendon.  According to the All Japan Kendo Federation (AJKF), among all the injuries that occur in kendo, Achilles tendon-

For Beginners – Some Ways to Help Prevent Foot Blisters

This article is for the beginners at the dojo where I practice at who often develop blisters on the feet and, in particular, the rear foot (typically the left foot).  I, too, remember

Plyometrics for Speed and Strength Development in Kendo

The producer of Bokushingu’s Kendo TV kindly introduced me to plyometrics several years ago.  I had wanted to increase the speed and strength in my footwork and koshi

Ways to Relax Tight Shoulders (肩の力を抜いて!)

Some fellow members at the dojo where I practice have asked about ways to relax tight shoulder muscles.  What follows is my journey in this area and ways I have explored

Healing Kendo (癒しの剣道) by Nakamura Sensei – Foreword and Part 1

This is Part 1 and the Foreword of a seven-part English translation of an article by

Ways to Check and Improve One’s Posture for Kamae and Well-Being

Posture (shisei 姿勢) is an important ingredient of a strong and beautiful kamae – which, in turn, is a prerequisite for the “execution of correct technique (and thus