![]()
Budo is the way of the warrior; it embraces all the Japanese martial
arts. It is an aspect of traditional culture that has evolved through centuries
of historical and social change.
Budo is the method, the teaching, that enables you to understand perfectly the nature of your own mind and self, and leads you to discover your own original nature, to awaken from the numbness of the ego and accede to higher, fuller personhood. This is the essence of Budo. It is not the art of fighting, of narrow technique, but an art of personal refinement and of protecting the quality of life. At AKA, we realize people come to study Martial Arts from all walks of life, and for many reasons: self-defense, exercise, a sense of camaraderie, a social outlet, weight loss, and so on. While we stress the spirit of Budo, we welcome all students, regardless of skill level, and work hard to ensure they have an enjoyable and productive time on the mat. Benefits of Martial Arts training:
Spiritual development We strive to teach our students to have an indomitable spirit and to never give up. Students learn to believe in themselves as well as the positive affects they can bring about by giving of themselves. They learn to have faith in others in their life to guide them to the next level of accomplishment in their goals. Respect Respect is a way of life. The students are taught to respect others, themselves, and their skills. A solid foundation of self-respect prepares one for life's challenges. Character Character is attained by being well developed physically, mentally, spiritually and with respect for yourself and others. Striving to develop character within each student is what separates Martial Arts from sports and fitness programs. Mental development Training in Martial Arts develops focus and the ability to concentrate on the task at hand while being aware of one's surroundings. To become highly skilled in the Martial Arts, one must be calm, centered, and focused towards the task at hand. A strong mind is developed through training. Physical development Our instructors strive to improve a student's physical abilities at all levels. Training increases physical fitness, athletic ability, coordination, concentration, helps with weight loss, self-defense skills, enhances one's speed, power, flexibility, and develops well rounded, versatile Martial Artists. Some general precepts Overcome your own ego. Don't take yourself too seriously or too personally. Life is not all about you. Realize there is more to the over all plan that you know or can control. Let it go and turn it over. Realize that you don't have to develop what you already have. Train your mind to let go and see through the illusions. All things come with time and training. Enjoy the journey. Read about Budo, Bujutsu, and Aikido. Take some of the principles, like harmony, and apply it to everything you do. Think and act with honor, compassion, and courage towards all, even those that really get to you. See their fear and pain and extend your loving protection to them. Bushido and The Four Oaths (Yamamoto Tsunenori):
Yagyu Munenori:
Musashi:
In general:
|