January 2015
“We spend January 1st walking through our lives, room by room, drawing up a list of work to be done, cracks to be patched. Maybe this year, to balance the list, we ought to walk through the rooms of our lives…not looking for flaws, but for potential.” – Ellen Goodman
Sempai Mics’ Analogy: It is easy to find fault and make excuses. We benefit more by focusing on our potential and doing something about it.
December 2014
“If you want to be successful as an astronaut or as anything else, you have to keep trying. There will be disappointments in your life. You’ll get so far and then there will be a setback. And if you let the setback overcome your drive, your willpower, then you’re in trouble.” ~ Jim Lovell, Astronaut, NASA Gemini and Apollo Programs
Sensei Scott’s Analogy: Change, both in and outside the dojo, can bring with it many challenges. Although at times it seems that we take as many steps backward as we do forward, change gives us an opportunity to learn something about ourselves. In the dojo, let change and challenge spur you on to improving yourself, both in technique and as a human being.
October 2014
“In order to succeed, your desire for success should be greater than your fear of failure.” ~ Bill Cosby
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy: Venturing into the unknown usually presents various fears. Starting a martial art has similar fears, mostly the fear of not knowing and feeling humility. Over come those fears with your desire to learn with a positive and supportive attitude. Everyone starts … not everyone finishes.
September 2014
“Remember, people will judge you by your actions, not your intentions. You may have a heart of gold — but so does a hard-boiled egg.” ~Author Unknown
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy: Most everyone has good intentions. Those who have pure intensions and follow through with good actions are successful. Set your training and personal growth goals and put your plan into action. Go the extra mile … it usually isn’t crowded there.
August 2014
“The foundation stones for a balanced success are honesty, character, integrity, faith, love and loyalty.” ~ Zig Ziglar
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy: The foundation of Hakko Denshin Ryu Ju Jutsu is built on the Bushido code. Balanced growth with integrity provides quality training, quality students, and controlled expansion, without compromising our values for personal gain.
July 2014
“Small deeds done are better than great deeds planned.” ~Peter Marshall
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; Many talk about their great plans and dedication to their training and the Dojo. The achievers actually follow through.
June 2014
“No one is born a perfect runner. And none of us will become one. But through incremental steps, we can become better runners,, And that’s the beauty of our sport: there are no shortcuts, nothing is given to us; we earn every mile and we earn every result.” ~ Pete Magill
Scott Sensei’s Analogy; Just like in running, no one is born with perfect technique in Ju Jutsu. Some people pick up the art quicker than others do, but in the long run, only practice and perseverance can bring about success in Hakko Denshin Ryu Ju Jutsu. That success ultimately depends on you as an individual, and the goals that you set for yourself. All of those personal successes and failures on the mat are what make us better in this art and no one can take those achievements away from you, when you put all of your energy and focus towards achieving them.
May 2014
“May what I do flow from me like a river, no forcing and no holding back, the way it is with children.” ~ Rainer Maria Rilke
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; When practicing Waza, many students tend to force and focus too much, to the point of frustration, which causes anxiety. The goal is to concentrate on what you’ve been taught with clarity and let it flow naturally, in a relaxed way. Don’t over think it however; remember all the points to help make it flow.
April 2014
“Trust is knowing that when a team member does push you, they’re doing it because they care about the team.” ~ Patrick Lencioni, The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; Training with a team of instructors and students has many benefits, such as different explanations to help understand similar concepts. Another main benefit is understanding that when other team members push you, it is because they want to help you, and the team, be stronger in the bigger picture of the Dojo.
March 2014
Quote from the movie “Seven Days in Utopia” which is a golfing movie. The quote was used to aid the golfer in “creating the shot”. See it, Feel it, Trust it (SFT).
Jewell Shihan’s analogy; when practicing keep all the points in mind. Create a picture/vision of what you want to happen. With your partner train slowly and focus on gaining a “feel” for what you are doing. Once you have focus, and are able to achieve the necessary movements to accomplish your goal, you will be able to “Trust” your abilities, which will strengthen your confidence.
February 2014
Man often becomes what he believes himself to be. If I keep on saying to myself that I cannot do a certain thing, it is possible that I may end by really becoming incapable of doing it. On the contrary, if I have the belief that I can do it, I shall surely acquire the capacity to do it even if I may not have it at the beginning. ~ Mahatma Gandhi
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; Having a positive attitude and confident belief in yourself are two of the most powerful aspects of training in the Dojo. Your instructors will teach you how to do things that you have never done. Follow their direction with an open mind and believe in yourself.
January 2014
“You can’t build a reputation on what you’re going to do.” ~ Henry Ford
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; January is usually full of good intentions. If you have set goals for your training in the Dojo, be sure to execute your plan. Deeds, not words.
December 2013
“No stream or gas drives anything until it is confined. No Niagara is ever turned into light and power until it is tunneled. No life ever grows great until it is focused, dedicated and disciplined.” ~ Harry E. Fosdick
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; Excelling in martial arts requires focus, desire, and discipline. We need to focus on what we want to achieve, desire that goal enough to apply the discipline required to work hard enough to accomplish a goal that we have never achieved before. Focus on your goals, desire to achieve them, and do what it takes to reach those goals.
November 2013
“Without self-discipline, success is impossible, period.” ~ Lou Holtz
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; self-discipline makes things happen, not just in the Dojo, but also in life. Setting your goals and disciplining yourself to take the necessary steps to achieve your goals is how people succeed, period.
October 2013
“It’s not the will to win that matters–everyone has that. It’s the will to prepare to win that matters.” ~ Paul “Bear” Bryant
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; Training and preparation are the keys to achieving any mental or physical goals. Practicing the Waza and Henka with a winning attitude will help to build confidence and prepare you for the challenge of a test or real life self defense.
September 2013
“You are never really playing an opponent. You are playing yourself, your own highest standards, and when you reach your limit, that is real joy. ~ Arthur Ashe
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; Training in Traditional Ju Jutsu provides everyone with a goal to challenge themselves more so than an opponent. Every training session provides you an opportunity to strive over yourself. Self Defense is merely a by-product of dedicated training and pushing yourself to your limits.
July 2013
“Take the first step in faith. You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step. ~ Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Sempai Mics’ Analogy: Many times we are in a hurry to learn advanced techniques before we truly understand the basics. Focus on what you need to learn for the step you are on. If you try to skip a step because you want to rush to the top, you will probably trip.
June 2013
“One must learn by doing the thing, for though you think you know it, you have no certainty until you try. ~ Aristotle
Sempai Mics’ Analogy: Even though we can imagine moving through our Waza, or trying a new Henka, you really can’t be sure you understand it until you try it with a partner that wants to share in that journey of learning.
May 2013
“Persistence can change failure into extraordinary achievement. ~ Matt Biondi
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; Persistence can be defined as, “the quality of continuing steadily despite problems or difficulties”. In the Dojo, we’ve all had difficulties learning to do things that we have never attempted to do before, which can naturally give us problems. The key is to continue to push our way through, with a positive attitude, until we achieve our goals. Everyone has challenges and we all started as new students at one time.
April 2013
“In the confrontation between the stream and the rock, the stream always wins, not through strength but by perseverance. ~ H. Jackson Brown
Sempai Scott’s Analogy: Often through the course of our training we encounter setbacks and stumbling points – times when we think, “What is the point? I’m never going to get it.” It’s at these times when we should look back at where we came from and see how much we have progressed in our training. Just like the stream, we sometimes have to “slog it out”, in order to make progress. Just like water slowly wears away at the rocks, so our training provides a means to slowly perfect who and what we want to become.
March 2013
“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” ~ Helen Keller
Sempai Mics’ Analogy: There are many martial arts where you can train alone, doing patterns and forms, to learn your techniques. Hakko Denshin Ryu Ju Jutsu training provides the opportunity for shared learning. Tori and Uke are in a symbiotic relationship, learning and teaching at the same time.
February 2013
“People often say that motivation doesn’t last. Well, neither does bathing – that’s why we recommend it daily. ~ Zig Ziglar
Sempai Mics’ Analogy: We can wait for others to motivate us or we can motivate ourselves. Your Sensei’s, Sempai’s and fellow students can be a great source of motivation but it comes down to the choices you make for yourself. You can choose to motivate yourself to come to class and to practice outside of regularly scheduled classes, or you can wait for others to give you a reason. You should have your own reason.
January 2013
“The last of human freedoms – the ability to choose one’s attitude in a given set of circumstances. ~ Viktor E. Frankl
Sempai Mics’ Analogy: If we get frustrated with our training, it is because we choose to. Having a positive attitude towards training, even if we don’t feel success every time, helps us appreciate what we do know. A positive attitude creates the possibility of greater understanding of that which we are about to learn.
December 2012
“One man can be a crucial ingredient on a team, but one man cannot make a team. ~ Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; The spirit in the Dojo is a group effort. As the Christmas season approaches, consider how you can positively contribute to the Dojo, your family, and any other group or team that you maybe part of in your life.
November 2012
“Nothing can add more power to your life than concentrating all your energies on a limited set of targets. ~ Nido Qubein
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; In today’s busy world, many people get pulled in several directions at once. We have so many options in life; careers, relationships, hobbies, friends, technology, projects, vacations, etc. It seems that most people will do a little bit of many things. In order to truly be successful, take the time to limit your activities and focus hard on your goals and targets that are important to you. Managing your time and being organized can assist with your goals and benefit you greatly.
October 2012
“I fear not the man who has practiced 10,000 kicks once, but I fear the man who has practiced one kick 10,000 times.” ~ Bruce Lee
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; Controlled repetitions helps develop muscle memory. Whether it is practicing a basic hip throw, or a complex Waza, proper repetitions will develop the necessary skills to retain and utilize the technique when necessary.
September 2012
“If you don’t like what’s happening, change it. If you can’t change it, change the way you think about it. When the mind is engaged, the soul is most alive. ~ M.A. Soupios, PhD
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; If you don’t like your physical abilities, endeavour to change them. If you aren’t successful with improving your abilities to the degree that you desire, train harder to change your attitude towards your abilities. Keep the mind active and positive in the Dojo.
August 2012
“A dragon is a creature with ultimate positive energy, so much so that it can fly in the sky without wings. Yet it usually remains curled up in supremely still waters.” – Kumazawa Banzan (1619-1691) – from Training the Samurai Mind
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; Our ultimate power lies within us. Our positive energy and training can provide us with very humble powers that may be used when necessary while traveling along the path of life.
July 2012
“We’re so busy watching out for what is just ahead of us that we don’t take time to enjoy where we are.” ~ Calvin & Hobbes
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; Aspire to achieve your training goals however, take time to enjoy what you already know and have learned in the Dojo.
June 2012
“There are two primary choices in life: to accept conditions as they exist or accept the responsibility for changing them.” ~ Denis Waitley
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; Training in the Dojo is an opportunity to learn many things that you don’t know and become something that you have never been by learning them. The choice is ultimately yours.
May 2012
“The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather in a lack of will.” ~ Vince Lombardi (1913-1970)
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; Your positive attitude and “will” are what will help you to be successful with your Dojo goals. With a strong “will”, you can acquire knowledge and strength. Your strong “will” will help you to reach a variety of greater levels in the various areas of your life.
April 2012
“Live as if you were going to die tomorrow, learn as if you were going to live forever.” ~ Ghandi.
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; In the Dojo, we attempt to strike a balance of learning martial arts to protect ourselves should our lives require us to do so in the future, and enjoying the journey of learning while we are training. Enjoy what you do as you prepare for the future.
March 2012
“The world is a dangerous place, not because of those who do evil, but because of those who look on and do nothin~ Albert Einstein
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; When we train in the Dojo, let us consider the good we can do in society. This month, we are working with Aikido London to raise money for the Japan Tsunami Relief Fund. Let’s do our part to improve society and the safety of our fellow humans.
February 2012
“I count him braver who conquers his desires than him who conquers his enemies; for the hardest victory is the victory over ones self.” Aristotle.
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; In today’s world of instant gratification and sport martial arts, it is easy for a student to desire to compete against other people to prove themselves. In traditional martial arts, we attempt to conquer our inner self and focus on self-improvement to achieve our victories. Self-defense is a by-product of pure training. Continuously improving our minds and bodies develops our self-confidence.
January 2012
“Look at the design of a lot of consumer products ? they’re really complicated surfaces. We tried to make something much more holistic and simple. When you first start off trying to solve a problem, the first solutions you come up with are very complex, and most people stop there. But if you keep going, and live with the problem and peel more layers of the onion off, you can oftentimes arrive at some very elegant and simple solutions. Most people just don?t put in the time or energy to get there. ~ Steve Jobs, 2006.
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; Training in Hakko Denshin Ryu Ju Jutsu allows us to peel off the complicated layers of various self defenses, focus on understanding the principle, therefore enabling us to better execute the technique effectively and efficiently. We should avoid the temptation to over analyze and / or complicate techniques and focus on the simplicity of understanding the essence of the technique.
December 2011
“Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.” ~ Mahatma Gandhi (1869-1948)
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; Happiness in the Dojo is balancing how you think, how you talk, and how you act while training. Find your balance in the Dojo to train and live in harmony.
November 2011
“We tend to forget that happiness doesn’t come as a result of getting something we don’t have, but rather of recognizing and appreciating what we do have.” ~ Frederick Koenig
Hoggart Shihan?s Analogy; For those Instructors and Students who attended our recent Taikai in Ann Arbour, Michigan, USA ? this is a good reminder that although we crave attaining higher ranks, we can recognize and appreciate that we have the talented Instructors and leadership to assist us to obtain what we desire and attain our goals.
October 2011
“Each one of us has to find his peace from within. And peace, to be real, must be unaffected by outside circumstances. ~ Gandhi
Paraphrased from the Dan syllabus introductions of Sho Dai Soke Ryuho Okuyama, translated by Brian Workman;
To be enlightened is not to be bothered by the noise of society. The basis of religion, politics, business, research and philosophy is in the kimo (heart) of man. Bugei is the way to kami (spirituality). Mastering technique can give you the security of knowing you can protect your life, and through this knowledge your character will develop a lightness and dignity. But do not just master technique. Try to find and develop the truth behind the technique, the pure and eternal. This will allow you to master yourself and attain unity of mind and body, to become enlightened.
September 2011
“The best and safest thing is to keep a balance in your life, acknowledge the great powers around us and in us. If you can do that, and live that way, you are really a wise man. ~ Euripides Greek tragic dramatist (484 BC – 406 BC)
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; On Sunday August 21, 2011, a traumatic event happened in Goderich, Ontario, Canada. An F3 tornado swept through the town destroying many homes, business, and disrupted many lives in a matter of seconds. The great powers around us, such as nature and this tornado, displayed itself in a devastating fashion. The power within in us is to assist our friends and families in this time of need and to help them gather their inner strength to re-build their lives and find balance again. Our thoughts are with all those affected by this tragic event.
August 2011
“The willingness to accept responsibility for one’s own life is the source from which self-respect springs. ~Joan Didion
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; The unique characteristic of martial arts is that your success is directly proportionate to one’s ability to accept their own responsibility for their training discipline, habits, lifestyle, attitude, and goals. Self Respect is a by-product of that responsibility.
July 2011
“If you don’t like something change it; if you can’t change it, change the way you think about it. ~ Mary Engelbreit
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; Having an open mind to learning is the key to progressing in the Martial Arts. A student’s perspective and approach to learning is just as important as what they are learning. The way a student thinks will directly reflect on their ability to learn.
June 2011
“Your past is important because it brought you to where you are, but as important as your past is, it is not nearly as important as the way you see your future.” ~ Dr. Tony Campolo
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; As a martial artist, the goal is to improve and develop our skills, do things we have not yet done, and become something that we have never been. Our past training is important however, having an open mind and accepting change will greatly assist in developing your future self.
May 2011
“I am aware of the symbiotic relationships all around me and I do my part to actively participate in them with a positive, helpful attitude.” ~ Mary Rau-Foster
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; In Hakko Denshin Ryu Waza, our philosophy is; “no challenge, no resistance, no injury.” The symbiotic relationship between Tori and Uke rewards both with an opportunity to learn the intricacies of our principles in a controlled environment.
April 2011
“Slow is smooth, smooth is fast, fast is lethal?. ~ From Team 1 of SRU in CTV Series, Flash Point ? Episode 313 ? season finale. (Compliments of Sempai Michael Mics)
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; Training in the martial arts, in particular Hakko Denshin Ryu Waza, we need to learn to slow down to become smooth. Once our techniques and Waza are smooth, speed will naturally follow. That smooth speed will enhance the efficiencies of our techniques.
March 2011
“Only three percent of adults have written goals, and everyone else works for them. ~ Brian Tracy
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; Becoming better than you have ever been, requires doing things that you have never done. Be a leader and write down your Dojo and training goals!
February 2011
“Perhaps the most valuable result of all education is the ability to make yourself do the thing you have to do, when it ought to be done, whether you like it or not; it is the first lesson that ought to be learned; and however early a man’s training begins, it is probably the last lesson that he learns thoroughly. ~ Thomas H. Huxley , English biologist (1825 – 1895)
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; There are times when a Sensei provides instruction or constructive feedback and the help is not completely understood as to “why” it is important. The Sensei has the vision of the bigger picture to provide you with the knowledge that is important, even if it is not viewed as such at the time. Trust in the system and do what needs to be done for your own development. When you become a Sensei … you will understand.
January 2011
“The people who succeed while facing small or large obstacles are those who become engaged and emotionally invested in their goals. They focus like a laser beam upon their desires and plan of actions. They are persistent, even when faced with obstacles, and they continue to maintain a “can-do attitude”.
The biggest obstacle that each of us face is our own lack of self-discipline. We can find many other things to do rather than work on our self-improvement plan. When we lack the self-discipline it is often because we really don’t want to achieve a particular goal, at least not enough to fight the inertia that we inevitably experience. ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson (only a portion of the whole quote)
December 1, 2010
“In order to become the best, you must dedicate yourself to the fullest; not only in the martial arts but also throughout daily life. Taking on full responsibility for your actions and willingly take initiative to set goals for the future, making yourself a better human being overall. ~ Sensei Christopher Jannetta
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; Martial arts is not just something we do a couple nights a week to stay fit and protect ourselves, it improves the way we think, act, and treat others. Set your goals in life, and in the Dojo. Martial arts are a way of life.
November 1, 2010
“The person who says it cannot be done should not interrupt the person doing it.” Chinese proverb
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; “Can’t” is a word that we don’t use in the Dojo. It isn’t that you can’t do something; it is just that you haven’t learned how yet.
October 1, 2010
A lot of times people look at the negative side of what they feel they can’t do. I always look on the positive side of what I can do. ~ Chuck Norris.
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; Every student in the Dojo should remain positive and reflect on what they have learned and accomplished during their training. Being frustrated by what you have not yet learned is counter-productive to your overall progress. Be sure to focus on what you have learned thus far and be proud of the skills that you have developed.
September 1, 2010
We can’t solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them- Albert Einstein
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; In our civilized society, we should endeavour to solve problems with a solution based attitude. In the Dojo, we find alternative solutions to dealing with the unfortunate violence that may find us in society.
August 1, 2010
It takes courage to let go of your assumptions and fly your dreams as a soaring invitation to become the best version of yourself. ~ Mary Anne Radmacher
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; Letting go of preconceived ideas regarding the martial arts is a challenge for many people. Many students are interested in joining the Dojo due to their perceptions of martial arts however, most students continue to train because they let go of those false assumptions and dare to soar and excel with a new and better understanding of what martial arts has to offer us … an exciting way of life.
July 1, 2010
Nothing is so strong as gentleness and nothing is so gentle as real strength. ~ Ralph W. Sockman
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; The true strength in Hakko Denshin Ryu Ju Jutsu is understanding the real power of relaxation and gentleness is not just physically but more importantly, mentally.
June 1, 2010
Everything comes to him who hustles while he waits. ~ Thomas Edison
Hoggart Shihan’s analogy: Training is a balance of working hard every time you are on the mat, yet being patient while reflecting on your progress and goals.
May 1, 2010
Our goals can only be reached through a vehicle of a plan, in which we must fervently believe, and upon which we must vigorously act. There is no other route to success. ~ Pablo Picasso
Hoggart Shihan’s analogy: While training in martial arts, one must keep their goals in mind at all times. Plan your targets progressively, the time frames in which you wish to achieve them, maintain consistent attendance, make time for extra workouts, and believe in yourself wholeheartedly.
April 1, 2010
Ability is what you’re capable of doing…
Motivation determines what you can do…
Attitude determines what you will do. – Lou Holtz
Hoggart Shihan’s analogy: Most everyone possesses the potential to be great. To be imbued with the right attitude and proper motivation is what elevates us to experience that greatness!
February 1, 2010
“Change has a considerable psychological impact on the human mind. To the fearful it is threatening because it means that things may get worse. To the hopeful it is encouraging because things may get better. To the confident it is inspiring because the challenge exists to make things better.h ~ King Whitney Jr.
Hoggart Shihanfs analogy: We inspire to become better by learning new things through a change in our understanding of various concepts. The real change is in our outlook in becoming something we have never been and accepting that change willfully and honestly.
January 1, 2010
“Freedom is not just a dream; it’s there on the other side of those fences we build all by ourselves.” Instinct with Anthony Hopkins
Hoggart Shihan’s analogy: Often the barriers we encounter at the Dojo are the mental fences that we build ourselves. Achieving our goals can be as simple as changing the way we think in order to progress in our training and advance to the other side. (Thank you Sempai Pressey for providing this quote)
“I’m not driven by people’s praise and I’m not slowed down by people’s criticism. I’m just trying to work at the highest level I can.” Russell Crowe.
Hoggart Shihan’s analogy; Praise and criticism in the Dojo is helpful however, focus on your training goals, and your reasons for attaining those goals, being the best you can be and training at the highest level possible.
November 1, 2009
“If you practice combat having developed sensitivity to ki and letting yourself be guided by ki, you can practice in an effective and meaningful fashion.” An Excerpt from “Ki and the Way of the Martial Arts” by Kenji Tokitsu
Hoggart Shihan’s analogy; Allow yourself to feel the techniques work while training, not just make them work through force. Sensitivity to ki will develop your skills for many years rather than using strength to develop your muscles in the short term.
October 1, 2009
“Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything” Albert Einstein
Hoggart Shihan’s analogy: The attitude we take towards change can directly reflect on our progress in the Dojo. (Thank you Sempai Scott for researching this quote)
September 1, 2009
True excellence and success can be achieved by using good judgment and making proper decisions, rising up within any given system, as apposed to rebelling and / or working against the system in hopes to gain some sort of mystical advantage.
Menkyo Kaiden Shihan Sandai Kichu Ken Hoggart; September 2009
August 1, 2009
“One who overcomes all things with a firm mind is called a wayfarer. One who has thoughts fixated on appearances, is burdened by everything, and so suffers misery is called an ordinary person.” – Suzuki Shosan (1579-1655) – from Training the Samurai Mind
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy; As we train, we meet our challenges with a calm and firm mind, confident of overcoming any adversity. Those who focus on their rank or the colour of their belt, may loose what the process of training can provide us in the big picture.
July 1, 2009
“The best way to guarantee a loss is to quit.” ~ Morgan Freeman
Hoggart Shihans’ Analogy; Should a student become frustrated with their progression in the Dojo, they can stop training. Or, they can work hard at the Dojo, improve their attendance, and better themselves as a person and achieve their overall goals.
June 1, 2009
“To me, the extraordinary aspect of martial arts lies in its simplicity. The easy way is also the right way, and martial arts is nothing at all special; the closer to the true way of martial arts, the less wastage of expression there is.” ~ Bruce Lee
Shihan Jewell’s Analogy: In Waza for example “slow and steady wins the race”. Slow down and find the simplest, easiest way to accomplish your goal. If you feel you are using strength then continue to practice until you discover the “true way”.
May 1, 2009
I’ve always found that anything worth achieving will always have obstacles in the way and you’ve got to have that drive and determination to overcome those obstacles on route to whatever it is that you want to accomplish. ~ Chuck Norris.
Hoggart Shihans’ Analogy; The Dojo is a place to clear your mind and develop your focus, preparing you to overcome obstacles, and accomplish what you desire.
April 1, 2009
A man who views the world the same at fifty as he did at twenty has wasted thirty years of his life. ~ Muhammad Ali.
Hoggart Shihans’ Analogy; Learn from your training in the Dojo, changing your views and perspectives as you grow within the martial arts and with your lessons in the Dojo.
March 1, 2009
Just play. Have fun. Enjoy the game. ~Michael Jordan.
Hoggart Shihan’s analogy; Often, we put unnecessary pressure on ourselves to train hard, in order to advance in rank. We should enjoy our training and bask in the feeling of accomplishing smooth and efficient technique. Rank will come naturally when we train with passion and enjoyment.
February 1, 2009
I think setting a goal, is getting a visual image of what it is you want. You’ve got to see what it is you want to achieve before you can pursue it.
~Chuck Norris.
Hoggart Shihan’s Analogy: Visualize yourself doing your Waza flawlessly and your Henka smoothly with tactical perfection. Enjoy the sensation of doing it right.
January 1, 2009
It’s lack of faith that makes people afraid of meeting challenges, and I believed in myself.
~Muhammad Ali.
Hoggart Shihans’ Analogy; Believe in yourself, what you know, and have faith in your training accomplishments. Don’t focus on what you are doing wrong…focus on what you have learned and how much better you have become!
January 1, 2008
If a technical movement is perfect, it is because it is in harmony with the effectiveness that adjusts your ki to a technical form. The perfect form of a technique that is not effective makes no sense, just as there cannot exist a perfect sword that does not cut.
An Excerpt from “Ki and the Way of the Martial Arts” by Kenji Tokitsu
Hoggart Shihans’ analogy; when performing your Waza, don’t just do the movement. Instead, feel the affect that your technique has on Uke, by way of; their off balance, their lock up, and their response to your movement and your ki.
February 1, 2008
Those that dare to venture experience the greatest rewards.
Anonymous
Hoggart Shihans’ analogy; Challenge yourself to experience the Waza, in a relaxed state of mind, the way it was designed to be practiced.
March 1, 2008
“In the game of life, winning is neither magical nor automatic. It is a conscious effort geared towards a defined goal. You don’t win by a twist of fate; rather, you win by faith in your creator.”
By Paul M. Bassey — Nigeria
Hoggart Shihans’ analogy; when training, make a conscious effort to focus on your goals, every time you are on the mat, having belief in your abilities, and faith in what you are being taught.
April 1, 2008
“I’ve found that luck is quite predictable. If you want more luck, take more chances. Be more active. Show up more often.”
Brian Tracy
Hoggart Shihans’ analogy; Prepare for your opportunities of growth and knowledge of Hakko Denshin Ryu Ju Jutsu, by training consistently with confidence.
June 1, 2008
Doubtless violence can bring a first form of effectiveness, but with increasing age, you will begin to discover other sources of effectiveness.
An Excerpt from “Ki and the Way of the Martial Arts” by Kenji Tokitsu
Hoggart Shihans’ analogy; Using strength to perform your technique will allow you to complete it however, you may not learn and understand your technique to benefit your efficiencies for years to come.
August 1, 2008
” The goal you set within is the first stone to stand on to become your best. You must keep setting goals and achieving them. To become the best in life you must believe in yourself and strive to stand on top of the mountain looking down and not midway looking up.”
Copyright © 2008 Chad E. Hardy
Hoggart Shihans’ Analogy; Learning the foundation of Hakko Denshin Ryu Ju Jutsu is built on the foundation of Shodan Waza, along with the other Black Belt Waza. The Kyu ranks of Shodan are similar in that every level is a stone to which you build your knowledge and understanding as you continue your quest to ascend.
September 1, 2008
Peace is not something you wish for; it’s something you make, something you do, something you are, and something you give away.
Robert Fulghum
Hoggart Shihans’ analogy; Peace is a state of mind. While in the Dojo, your peace can be found at the beginning of class, during the bow in. Make your peace with yourself before you train, and maintain that peace during your Waza. Mushin is relaxing the mind, not just the body.
October 1, 2008
I have given my school the name Jisei Budo. Ji means “oneself”. Sei means “to form”, or “to accomplish”. Thus it is a school of budo through which one can form oneself by oneself.
An Excerpt from “Ki and the Way of the Martial Arts” by Kenji Tokitsu
Hoggart Shihans’ analogy; The Dojo is a place for students to learn about themselves. A Dojo Instructor merely guides a student along the right path. It is up to the student to accept that guidance as a way and a means to accomplishing their goals.
November 10, 2008
In order to gain the most of your training in Hakko Denshin Ryu Ju Jutsu Waza, understanding the movement is more important than executing the movement. Perform the Waza to your Uke, through their center, and always with off balance in mind, is key. Focus on the big picture of; your objective, not just the movement – do your technique to Uke’s whole body, not just their wrist – step outside your comfort zone of movements, and feel the understanding throughout your whole body as it moves Uke to your desired position.
Menkyo Kaiden Shihan Sandai Kichu Ken Hoggart; November 2008
December 1, 2008
To make progress in the practice of Budo, concentration, will, conviction, and even an immovable spirit are required in order to persevere through years of training.
An Excerpt from “Ki and the Way of the Martial Arts” by Kenji Tokitsu
Hoggart Shihans’ analogy; Think not only of your training today, tomorrow, or next week, but think of your training for many years to come. Budo is not just a phase in your life. It is a lifestyle that requires dedication and provides many rewards along the journey of training.
January 1, 2007
Those that dare to venture, experience the greatest rewards.
Anonymous
Hoggart Shihans’ analogy: Dare to venture into your training goals for the New Year (2007), and experience your own rewards. Many of us relate to the great feeling of a good workout and the reward of gaining more insight every time we practice.
February 1, 2007
The current of the winter river
Reflects the moon
On the transparent water like a mirror
A poem by Miyamoto Musashi
Hoggart Shihans’ analogy; this refers to the notion of plunging your hand into the freezing and rapidly moving water. The power of the water is know, yet so deceptive, because of the calm on the surface that is reflecting the beauty of the moon. This is similar to the Deceptive Power of the Eighth Light. Such graceful and non-violent techniques can be so powerful and efficient with extreme results.
March 1, 2007
Budo is a particular practice that leads without fail to spiritual development. In fact, if people begin budo as a physical practice, their path will guide them progressively toward a psychological dimension, and they will encounter a practice in which the body and the mind form a unity.
An Excerpt from “Ki and the Way of the Martial Arts” by Kenji Tokitsu
Hoggart Shihans’ analogy; this is a common reality in the Dojo. I can recall several students who joined for one reason, maybe job related or physical exercise, and continue their training for the spiritual and mental benefits of Budo. Feel free to speak with senior students or instructors to inquire about this philosophy and how Budo may have affected them.
April 1, 2007
Great things are not done by impulse, but by a series of small things brought together.
Vincent Van Gogh
Hoggart Shihans’ analogy; All of the small things in the Dojo contribute to achieving greatness. The etiquette, the fundamental principles, the unwritten rules, the respect, and the compassion are all important to our training. To be great is to notice all the small things in order to see the bigger picture of your success.
May 1, 2007
To make progress in the practice of Budo, concentration, will, conviction, and even an immovable spirit are required in order to persevere through years of training.
An Excerpt from “Ki and the Way of the Martial Arts” by Kenji Tokitsu
Hoggart Shihans’ analogy; Think not only of your training today, tomorrow, or next week, but think of your training for many years to come. Budo is not just a phase in your life. It is a lifestyle that requires dedication and provides many rewards along the journey of training.
June 1, 2007
In order to correct my posture, I look at myself in a mirror. Combat is like a mirror that reflects me to myself. Looking into this mirror, I become conscious of faults and inadequacies that have to be corrected and remedied. Therefore, in order to keep my life straight, I have to look in this mirror often. I would say that the practice of combat is a kind of ascetic practice for finding out who I am.
An Excerpt from “Ki and the Way of the Martial Arts” by Kenji Tokitsu
Hoggart Shihans’ analogy; as we look in our mirrors, both at the Dojo and in private, we will see the reflection of ourselves, not just in the physical being, but into our soul. We will see the reflection of our promises, our accomplishments, our excuses, our justifications, our honor, and our integrity … our core values. A mirror can help to correct more than just your posture in the Dojo. A mirror can help you to correct your core values leading towards self improvement.
July 1, 2007
It is not the magnitude of our actions but the amount of love that is put into them that matters.
Mother Teresa
Hoggart Shihans’ analogy; In Hakko Denshin Ryu Ju Jutsu, it is not the strength, vigor, or flash that we put into our techniques, but the relaxation and inner spirit that we are able to apply within our techniques. It truly is a matter of Devotion and understanding.
August 1, 2007
The notion of Budo involves striving for the betterment of oneself, that is to say, the betterment of one’s being in its totality, by means of the practice of martial arts.
An Excerpt from “Ki and the Way of the Martial Arts” by Kenji Tokitsu
Hoggart Shihans’ analogy; Martial art is more than a sport or hobby; it is truly a way of life. Many of us can reflect on the many ways that the Dojo, or way of Budo, has affected our lives such as our families, our careers, and our core values, and in our attitudes, in a very positive manner. Budo helps us develop in many ways other than just fitness or self defence.
September 1, 2007
Aim above morality. Be not simply good; be good for something
Henry David Thoreau
Hoggart Shihans’ analogy; your goals and dreams are directly proportional to your efforts every day with every task. Aim high and reflect on your Achievements and goals constantly.
November 1, 2007
The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.
Eleanor Roosevelt
Hoggart Shihans’ analogy; Dreams, goals, and accomplishments should always be in the forefront of our everyday thoughts. You first must have a dream or a goal, in order to accomplish or achieve it in the future. What are your dreams?
November 1, 2006
In my martial art, there is no change in footwork; it is just like walking along a road as usual. Following the rhythm of the opponent, finding the right physical position in conditions of both hurry and calm, the stride should be orderly, without slack or excess.
An excerpt from “The Book of Five Rings” by Miyamoto Musashi
Hoggart Shihans’ analogy; in our training, we should concentrate less on the actual movement and focus more on the principle and purpose behind the reason for the technique. To over analyze the movement can take away from our reasoning.
December 1, 2006
In martial arts, speed is not the true Way. As far as speed is concerned, the question of fast or slow in anything derives from failure to harmonize with the rhythm.
An excerpt from “The Book of Five Rings” by Miyamoto Musashi
Hoggart Shihans’ analogy; when we practice our Waza, Henka, or Shiatsu, to find our rhythm and harmony, within our given environment or situation is more important than overall speed.