AFD – Budo2Go

How Shinto and Bushido influenced Japan. A comparison.

Bushido and Shinto are two important elements of Japanese culture that have played a significant role in shaping the country’s history, traditions, and values. While Bushido is the code of conduct followed by the samurai, the warrior class in medieval Japan, Shinto is the indigenous religion of Japan that focuses on the worship of ancestors and nature. In this essay, we will compare and contrast Bushido and Shinto and analyze their similarities and differences.

Bushido, which translates to “the way of the warrior,” is a set of ethical principles and rules that guided the behavior of the samurai. It emphasized the values of loyalty, honor, courage, and self-discipline, and required samurai to follow a strict code of conduct, which included self-control, respect for others, and a willingness to sacrifice one’s life for one’s lord. Bushido was developed during the feudal period of Japan, and it was heavily influenced by Zen Buddhism and Confucianism.

On the other hand, Shinto is the indigenous religion of Japan that centers on the worship of nature, ancestors, and spirits called kami. Shinto beliefs and practices have been an integral part of Japanese culture for over a millennium, and they continue to influence Japanese society today. Shinto emphasizes the importance of living in harmony with nature and the community, and it encourages respect for the natural world and the spirits that inhabit it. Shinto also places great importance on purification rituals, including the use of water and salt, which are believed to cleanse the body and mind of impurities.

While Bushido and Shinto have different origins and focuses, they share several similarities. Both emphasize the importance of honor, respect, and self-discipline. Bushido requires samurai to maintain a high level of discipline and to act with dignity and honor at all times, while Shinto teaches that individuals must respect the spirits of nature and their ancestors to maintain balance in the world. Both Bushido and Shinto also place great importance on ritual and ceremony, with the former requiring samurai to observe strict protocols in their interactions with others and the latter emphasizing the importance of purification rituals and offerings to the kami.

Despite these similarities, Bushido and Shinto also have some notable differences. Bushido is primarily concerned with the conduct of the samurai and their interactions with others, while Shinto is focused on the relationship between individuals and the natural world. Bushido is a code of conduct that governs the behavior of a particular social class, while Shinto is a religion that is practiced by individuals across Japanese society. Additionally, while Bushido is heavily influenced by Buddhism and Confucianism, Shinto has a distinct set of beliefs and practices that are unique to Japan.

In conclusion, Bushido and Shinto are two important elements of Japanese culture that have shaped the country’s history, traditions, and values. While they share some similarities, such as the emphasis on honor and respect, they also have notable differences, with Bushido primarily concerned with the conduct of the samurai and Shinto focused on the relationship between individuals and the natural world. Both Bushido and Shinto continue to influence Japanese society today, reflecting the enduring importance of tradition and culture in the country

How to use Ninjutsu to supplement Gray man training. Train to be the Gray man.

Ninjutsu, the martial art of the ninja, is often associated with covert and stealthy operations. As such, it can be a valuable tool for those who wish to blend in with their surroundings and avoid drawing attention to themselves. This is where the concept of the “gray man” comes in.

The gray man is a term used to describe someone who is able to move through their environment without attracting attention. This could be in a survival situation where you don’t want to be spotted by others, or in everyday life where you want to avoid unwanted attention or become a target.

Ninjutsu techniques, with their focus on stealth, evasion, and misdirection, can be highly effective for those seeking to become a gray man. Here are some examples:

Hiding in plain sight – One of the key tenets of ninjutsu is the ability to blend in with your environment. This can involve wearing clothing that matches the surroundings, moving in a way that mimics natural movements, and adopting a demeanor that is unremarkable. By doing this, you can become virtually invisible to those around you.
Stealth movement – Ninjutsu emphasizes the use of silent, fluid movements that don’t draw attention. This can involve walking on the balls of your feet, making small, controlled steps, and using the environment to mask your movements. By moving in this way, you can avoid drawing attention to yourself and move unnoticed through crowded spaces.
Disguise and deception – Another key aspect of ninjutsu is the use of deception to achieve one’s objectives. This can involve disguising oneself as someone else, using misdirection to distract opponents, and using camouflage to blend into the environment. By mastering these skills, you can become a true gray man, able to move through any environment without being noticed.
Survival skills – Ninjutsu also emphasizes survival skills such as finding shelter, building fires, and obtaining food and water. By mastering these skills, you can become self-sufficient and avoid drawing attention to yourself by relying on others.

In conclusion, Ninjutsu techniques are highly adaptable and can be utilized to become a gray man. By mastering the art of blending in with your surroundings, moving with stealth and fluidity, and using disguise and deception, you can become virtually invisible to those around you. In today’s world, where threats to personal safety and privacy are becoming more prevalent, the skills of the ninja are more valuable than ever.

Origins of Budo and other Japanese martial arts

Japanese martial arts, also known as “Budo,” have a rich and complex history that spans over centuries. The roots of many modern martial arts can be traced back to ancient samurai combat techniques, including jujutsu and ninjutsu.

Jujutsu is a martial art that emphasizes grappling and joint manipulation techniques to subdue an opponent. It originated during Japan’s feudal period and was used by samurai warriors to defend themselves against armed opponents when their own weapons were not available.

Ninjutsu, on the other hand, is the martial art developed by the ninja, a group of covert agents who emerged in Japan during the 15th century. Ninjutsu emphasizes techniques for spying, sabotage, and assassination, as well as self-defense. The ninja were known for their stealth and secrecy, and their techniques were developed to allow them to complete their missions without detection.

Many of the techniques used in jujutsu and ninjutsu were eventually adapted into other martial arts, including judo, aikido, and karate. For example, Jigoro Kano, the founder of judo, studied jujutsu and incorporated many of its grappling techniques into his new martial art.

In the case of karate, it originated on the island of Okinawa, which was an independent kingdom until it was annexed by Japan in the late 19th century. Okinawan martial arts were heavily influenced by Chinese martial arts, which were introduced to the island through trade and cultural exchange. However, when karate was introduced to Japan, it was heavily influenced by Japanese martial arts, including jujutsu.

It is worth noting that while many modern martial arts have their roots in jujutsu and ninjutsu, they have evolved over time to focus on different aspects of combat and self-defense. Some martial arts emphasize striking techniques, while others focus on grappling or joint manipulation. Each martial art has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, and the choice of which one to learn ultimately depends on the individual’s goals and interests.

In conclusion, while jujutsu and ninjutsu were important predecessors to many modern martial arts, it is not necessarily advantageous to learn ninjutsu specifically. Instead, it is more important to find a martial art that aligns with your personal goals and interests, and to train under a qualified instructor.

Why Everyone Should Have Martial Arts Training to Survive Any Type of Incident

In today’s world, it’s important to be prepared for anything. Emergencies, natural disasters, and other incidents can happen at any time, and being prepared can make all the difference. One way to be prepared for any type of incident is to have martial arts training. Martial arts training can help you survive and thrive in a variety of situations, from hand-to-hand combat to medical emergencies to the use of weapons.

Here are some reasons why everyone should have martial arts training:

Combatives Training: One of the most obvious benefits of martial arts training is that it teaches you how to fight. In a self-defense situation, the ability to defend yourself and fight back can be the difference between life and death. Martial arts training teaches you how to use your body to defend yourself and take down your opponent. It also teaches you how to control your emotions and react quickly to unexpected situations.
Medical Training: Another important aspect of martial arts training is medical training. In a disaster or emergency situation, there may be injuries or medical emergencies that require immediate attention. Martial arts training can teach you basic first aid techniques, as well as more advanced medical training. You’ll learn how to assess injuries, control bleeding, and administer CPR, among other skills.
Weapons Training: In some situations, you may need to use a weapon to defend yourself. Martial arts training can teach you how to use a variety of weapons, from knives to guns to improvised weapons. You’ll learn how to use them safely and effectively, and you’ll also learn how to disarm your opponent.

Overall, martial arts training can provide a range of benefits that can help you survive and thrive in any type of incident. You’ll learn how to defend yourself in a fight, provide medical assistance to those in need, and use weapons effectively and safely. These skills can help you stay safe and survive in a variety of situations, from natural disasters to terrorist attacks.

In conclusion, if you want to be prepared for anything, consider getting martial arts training. The skills you’ll learn can help you survive and thrive in any type of incident, and can make all the difference when it comes to staying safe and protecting yourself and others.

Why Reiki is and can be a critical part of Budo

Reiki is a form of alternative medicine that has gained popularity over the years. It is based on the concept of universal life energy, which flows through all living things. Reiki practitioners use their hands to transfer this energy to the recipient, with the intention of promoting physical and emotional healing. Budo, on the other hand, is a term that encompasses various Japanese martial arts. It emphasizes the development of the mind, body, and spirit, with the ultimate goal of self-improvement and self-mastery.

At first glance, Reiki and Budo may seem like two separate practices with little in common. However, when examined closely, it becomes clear that Reiki can actually be a valuable addition to one’s Budo training. Here are a few reasons why:

Reiki can help with physical healing – Budo training can be quite intense and rigorous, and injuries are not uncommon. Reiki can be used to speed up the healing process, reduce pain and inflammation, and promote overall physical wellness. This can be particularly useful for practitioners who are dealing with injuries that prevent them from training to their full potential.
Reiki can aid in mental and emotional healing – In addition to physical healing, Reiki can also help with mental and emotional healing. Many Budo practitioners struggle with anxiety, stress, and other mental health issues. Reiki can be used to promote relaxation, reduce stress levels, and increase feelings of calm and peace.
Reiki can help with energy flow – In Budo, practitioners focus on the flow of energy, or ki, through the body. Reiki can help to clear any blockages in this energy flow, allowing the practitioner to access and utilize their ki more effectively. This can lead to greater physical strength, increased mental focus, and overall improved performance in Budo.
Reiki can aid in spiritual development – Budo is not just about physical strength and skill, but also about developing the spirit. Reiki can be a useful tool for this, as it helps practitioners connect with their own inner spirit and with the universal life energy that surrounds us all. This can lead to a deeper sense of spirituality, increased compassion, and greater overall fulfillment in life.

In conclusion, Reiki and Budo may seem like two very different practices, but they actually complement each other quite well. Reiki can aid in physical, mental, and emotional healing, improve energy flow, and promote spiritual development – all of which are valuable additions to Budo training. By incorporating Reiki into their practice, Budo practitioners can gain a deeper understanding of the connection between mind, body, and spirit, and achieve greater overall self-improvement and self-mastery.

Ninjutsu and Jeet Kune Do: Two Great Martial Arts Complimenting Each Other

Ninjutsu and Jeet Kune Do are two of the most popular martial arts in the world. While they may appear vastly different on the surface, these two styles are actually quite complementary to each other. In this article, we will take a closer look at both ninjutsu and Jeet Kune Do, and explore how they can be combined to create a powerful and effective fighting style.

Ninjutsu is a Japanese martial art that has its roots in ancient samurai culture. It was originally developed as a method of self-defense and covert operations, and has since evolved into a comprehensive fighting system that encompasses a wide range of techniques and strategies. Some of the key components of ninjutsu include weapons training, stealth techniques, grappling and throws, and spiritual development.

One of the key strengths of ninjutsu is its versatility. Ninjas were trained to adapt to any situation, and this is reflected in the diverse range of techniques and strategies that make up the art. Ninjas were also known for their cunning and resourcefulness, and these traits are still emphasized in modern-day ninjutsu training.

Jeet Kune Do, on the other hand, is a more recent martial art that was developed by the legendary Bruce Lee. Jeet Kune Do is often described as a “style without style,” as it is not limited by any set techniques or predetermined forms. Instead, Jeet Kune Do practitioners are encouraged to develop their own unique style based on their own strengths, weaknesses, and individual preferences.

One of the key features of Jeet Kune Do is its focus on simplicity and directness. Unlike many other martial arts, Jeet Kune Do does not rely on complicated techniques or complex forms. Instead, it emphasizes the importance of fluid and natural movements, and encourages practitioners to rely on their instincts and reactions in combat situations.

So, how do ninjutsu and Jeet Kune Do complement each other?

First and foremost, ninjutsu and Jeet Kune Do both share a focus on versatility and adaptability. Both arts emphasize the importance of being able to adjust to any situation, and encourage practitioners to develop their own unique approach to combat. This makes the two styles a perfect match, as they both promote the same core values of flexibility and versatility.

Another important factor is the complementary nature of ninjutsu’s weapons training and Jeet Kune Do’s focus on simplicity and directness. The weapons training in ninjutsu provides a comprehensive understanding of different types of weapons and their use, while Jeet Kune Do emphasizes the importance of fluid and natural movements. Combining these two elements results in a powerful and effective fighting style that can adapt to any situation, whether armed or unarmed.

Finally, ninjutsu and Jeet Kune Do both place a strong emphasis on personal development and self-awareness. Both arts encourage practitioners to explore their own strengths and weaknesses, and to constantly strive to improve and evolve their skills. This type of self-reflection is essential for any martial artist, and by combining the two styles, practitioners can further enhance their own personal growth and development.

In conclusion, ninjutsu and Jeet Kune Do are two of the most effective and versatile martial arts in the world, and combining them results in a powerful and well-rounded fighting style. By combining the adaptability and versatility of ninjutsu with the simplicity and directness of Jeet Kune Do, practitioners can develop a style that is truly unique and effective in any situation. Whether you’re looking to improve your self-defense skills or simply seeking a challenging and rewarding

Ninjutsu and aikido… which would you pick?

Ninjutsu and Aikido are both martial arts that originated in Japan and have been widely practiced for centuries. However, they differ greatly in their philosophy, training methods, and effectiveness in combat situations.

Ninjutsu, also known as ninpo or the ninja way, is considered to be a complete fighting system. It emphasizes practicality and efficiency in combat, and its techniques are designed to be effective against both armed and unarmed opponents. Ninjutsu is known for its use of stealth and surprise, as well as its versatility in adapting to various situations. Practitioners of ninjutsu use a variety of weapons, such as swords, shuriken, and bo staffs, and they also incorporate grappling, striking, and joint locks into their training. The goal of ninjutsu is to neutralize an opponent as quickly and efficiently as possible, using whatever means necessary.

Aikido, on the other hand, is a non-violent martial art that emphasizes self-defense and spiritual development. Its techniques are designed to redirect an attacker’s energy and neutralize the situation without causing harm. Aikido practitioners use joint locks, throws, and pins to control an opponent, and they focus on fluid, circular movements that allow them to blend with an attacker’s energy and redirect it. Unlike ninjutsu, aikido does not make use of weapons, and its training is less physically demanding. The ultimate goal of aikido is to resolve conflicts peacefully, and practitioners strive to cultivate a harmonious and compassionate spirit.

In conclusion, Ninjutsu is a complete fighting system that emphasizes practicality and efficiency in combat, while Aikido is a non-violent martial art that emphasizes self-defense and spiritual development. While both styles have their own unique strengths and weaknesses, the effectiveness of each style will depend on the individual practitioner’s skill level, training, and philosophy. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide which style best suits their needs and goals.

Kuji and Japanese Reiki, a comparison.

Ninjutsu Kuji and Japanese Reiki are two spiritual practices that have a long history in Japan. Although they come from different cultural and spiritual backgrounds, they share some common ground in their philosophy and approach to spirituality. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at both practices, comparing and contrasting their similarities and differences.

Ninjutsu Kuji is a spiritual practice that has its roots in the ninja tradition of medieval Japan. The word “kuji” means “nine symbols,” and refers to a series of hand gestures or mudras that are used in spiritual practices. In ninjutsu, the kuji are believed to provide protection, enhance physical and mental abilities, and connect the practitioner with the spiritual realm. The practice of ninjutsu kuji involves performing the hand gestures in a specific sequence, often accompanied by visualization and mantra repetition.

Japanese Reiki, on the other hand, is a form of spiritual healing that has been passed down from generation to generation for hundreds of years. The word “reiki” is a combination of two Japanese words, “rei,” meaning “spirit,” and “ki,” meaning “life force energy.” Reiki practitioners believe that they can channel the universal life force energy into their bodies, and use it to heal physical, emotional, and mental issues. Reiki is performed by placing the hands on the recipient’s body, or holding them just above the body, and allowing the energy to flow through the practitioner and into the recipient.

One of the key similarities between ninjutsu kuji and Japanese Reiki is the focus on spiritual energy. Both practices believe that the human body is a vessel for spiritual energy, and that this energy can be used for spiritual development and physical healing. Both also use visualization, mantra repetition, and hand gestures to enhance their practices and connect with the spiritual realm.

Another similarity is the belief in the power of intention. In both ninjutsu kuji and Japanese Reiki, the practitioner sets their intention before performing the practice, and it is believed that this intention is a key factor in determining the outcome of the practice. Both practices also place a strong emphasis on mindfulness and being present in the moment.

However, there are also some significant differences between ninjutsu kuji and Japanese Reiki. One of the most notable differences is the origin and history of the practices. Ninjutsu kuji has its roots in the ninja tradition, while Japanese Reiki has been passed down as a spiritual healing practice for centuries. Another difference is the approach to physical healing. In ninjutsu kuji, the focus is on enhancing physical abilities and providing protection, while in Japanese Reiki, the focus is on direct healing of physical, emotional, and mental issues.

In conclusion, ninjutsu kuji and Japanese Reiki are two spiritual practices that share some common ground in their philosophy and approach to spirituality. However, they also have some notable differences, including their origin and history, and the focus of their practices. Whether you’re interested in exploring one of these practices or both, it’s important to understand their similarities and differences so you can choose the best path for your own spiritual journey

Can teachings of Ninjutsu be as beneficial to learn as Krav Maga? An unbiased analysis.

Ninjutsu, the ancient Japanese martial art of the ninja warriors, has a rich history of application and development spanning over a thousand years. The art of ninjutsu has been perfected over centuries and has been used as a tool for combat, survival, and espionage. While Krav Maga is a modern, Israeli self-defense system, it has its roots in street fighting techniques, and has been widely adopted by military and law enforcement organizations around the world. Both ninjutsu and Krav Maga have their own unique strengths and weaknesses, but in this article, we will focus on how ninjutsu training, specifically the concept of the flexibility of the kamae, the ability to apply techniques across all fighting ranges and weapons, and the focus on basic combat and survival skills, is more functional for most people than Krav Maga training.

Flexibility of the Kamae:

The kamae, or posture, in ninjutsu is designed to be flexible and adaptable to any situation. Unlike Krav Maga, which relies on a set of pre-determined techniques and positions, ninjutsu training focuses on developing the ability to quickly assess and respond to any situation, adapting the kamae and techniques as necessary. This level of adaptability and fluidity in the kamae gives ninjutsu practitioners the ability to respond quickly and effectively to any situation, whether it is a hand-to-hand combat scenario or a weapon-based attack.

All Fighting Ranges and Weapons:

Ninjutsu training covers all ranges of combat, including close-quarters, mid-range, and long-range combat, as well as the use of weapons. This comprehensive approach to combat training gives ninjutsu practitioners the ability to respond to any situation, regardless of the distance or the type of weapon being used against them. Krav Maga, on the other hand, primarily focuses on close-quarters self-defense and does not incorporate the use of weapons to the same extent as ninjutsu training.

Basic Combat and Survival Skills:

One of the key differences between ninjutsu and Krav Maga is the focus on basic combat and survival skills. Ninjutsu training places a strong emphasis on developing the ability to defend oneself and survive in any situation. This includes training in hand-to-hand combat, weapons training, and survival skills such as stealth, tracking, and camouflage. These basic combat and survival skills are critical in the event of a catastrophe or societal collapse, and provide ninjutsu practitioners with a distinct advantage in these types of situations.

In conclusion, while both ninjutsu and Krav Maga have their own unique strengths and weaknesses, the comprehensive approach to combat training, the flexibility of the kamae, the ability to apply techniques across all fighting ranges and weapons, and the focus on basic combat and survival skills make ninjutsu training, specifically the Gyokko Ryu style, a more functional choice for most people. Whether you are looking to improve your personal self-defense skills or prepare for the worst, ninjutsu training provides a solid foundation for both.

Shifting focus

Hello all my fellow Budoka. As I sit and think about what BUDO2GO needs I realize I need to look to myself for inspiration around what I want and am looking for and how that plays out to the rest of you.

Due to that a few changes are going to be coming to BUDO2GO.

1. Instagram, Twitter and a new Facebook page will be primarily where new posts and blogs will be published. I may also keep updating the pages here, but they will be more static. Longer posts will still be linked from Socials to this site, but more content will also be more easily digestible for those mediums.

2. Products will be coming. I have certain budo/martial arts items that I like to train with and will be posting reviews and suggestions here. I am not affiliated with any of those items and will be giving honest insight.

2a. I am working with fellow Budoka, Shinto Kannushi and friends to create special items JUST FOR BUDO2GO.

3. Between Socials and this site, I am contemplating providing some simple training and self defense videos, documents, and skills for anyone to practice to give them the most basic level of competence for self preservation. With the continual deterioration of the economy, social justice, mental health and overall moral compass that society today has, the ramp up of violence and death in the country and others is untenable. Now more then ever you should have a base level of situational awareness and a small bag of ideas and techniques to get out of danger, and if need to – eliminate it as best you can for the preservation of your life, and the lives of others.

I will be posting this on social media as well, be prepared for LOTS of new content, ideas and products coming your way.

Domo Arigato Friends.