Martial Arts

The term martial arts is generic for Asian Arts of Self Improvement. One who studies and become proficient at a martial art not only gets into great physical shape, but develops confidence and self discipline that contributes to a better quality of life.

The Meaning of Shorinjiryu

Shorinjiryu	The Japanese word for Shaolin Temple Style
Shindo	The way of evolution

The Difference between Karate and Karatedo

Karatedo

The word "Karatedo" is composed of the ideograms kara, te and do. Kara in Japanese refers to one of the most brilliant "Kara" periods in Chinese history when the Tang Dynasty ruked China (A.D. 618-907) and has come to represent China itself for the Japanese. "Kara" means Empty "Te" means hand or technique "Do" signifies philosophical way with which to realize oneself.

Thus, KARATEDO literally means "the way to self-perfection through the practice of techniques originating during the Tang period"

The word "karate" was first introduced in Okinawa to designate "Chinese fight techniques" which include both bare hand and armed techniques (Karate-ho and Buki-ho). But as is often the case in Japanese use of Chinese ideograms, Kara can also be written and pronounced Ku or Sora, meaning "empty", "free like air" or "infinite like the sky"

Thus, another sense of Karatedo is "the way to self perfection through the practice of techniques of emptiness" [emptiness being understood both physically (without weapons) and mentally (with an empty or free mind).

The main goal of Karatedo is to help individuals improve themselves and others physically, intellectually, emotionally and spiritually. The acquisition of technical knowledge is not to be an end in itself, but a mean to realize one's full potential. This is the true meaning of "Do". "Karate Jitsu" is the study of techniques as a mean to better a warrior's chances of survival in battle. It is of great value a a part of karatedo, in the area of self-defense.

The Shindo schools has as its goal the desire to provide every student a safe, comfortable and friendly atmosphere in which to study. The school presents opportunities for individual achievement and sets a positive example.

Comparison of Shorinjiryu Shindo Karatedo and other styles

The most prevalent traits of Shorinjiryu Karatedo are: mobile - high stances - avoiding techniques - full hips - vertical punches - use of bugu to improve efficiency of basic techniques. Our style does not rely entirely on kicking, striking, blocking and punching like many other styles do. Our style employs a host of other techniques such as throws, holds, joint techniques and choking. These enable the Shorinjiryu student to operate comfortably in a close environment and when necessary, an opponent can be seized, thrown and held immobile.

Dojo Kun (School Principles)

1. Maintain propriety, etiquette, dignity and virtue.

2. Gain self-understanding by tasting the true meaning of combat.

3. Search for the pure principles of being truthful, just and normal.

4. Exercise a positive personality: confident, courageous and determined.

5. Always seek to further develop the character, by aiming towards perfection and complete harmony with creation.

Student's Creed 1. I will develop myself in a positive manner and avoid anything that could reduce my mental growth or physical health. 2. I will develop self-discipline in order to bring out the best of myself and others. 3. I will use what I learn in class constructively and defensively to help myself and others and never be abusive or offensive.

Shorinjiryu Shindo Black Belt Oath 1. I accept with honor and privilege this Black Belt in Shorinjiryu. I swear to uphold the standards of honesty, modesty, courtesy, integrity, high moral code, perseverance, courage and indomitable spirit. 2. I sincerely pledge to honor my instructor and school with loyalty and support, also to value and carry on the martial arts tradition with respect and diginity. 3. I further pledge, with humility and gratitude, to continue my mental, physical and spiritual growth to the highest level, to lead by example and to share what I have learned with others.