|
What
Is Enshin Karate
?
Enshin Karate is a practical system of empty-handed self-defense
based on a strategy of circular movement allowing you to use your opponent's
power and momentum against him or her. This strategy, called sabaki, enables its
practitioner to convert defense into offense. Enshin stresses the development of
flexibility, power, and speed, with emphasis on stretching, conditioning, and
technique. Training in Enshin karate builds spiritual awareness, mental
alertness, a sense of confidence, and provides resources for meeting the
challenges encountered in life. Enshin Karate was developed by Kancho Ninomiya,
winner of the 1978 All-Japan Tournament and Director of the Sabaki Challenge The
name ENSHIN is derived from two Japanese words: en meaning 'open or unfinished
circle,' and shin meaning 'heart' or 'inner.' The combination of these two words
and their meanings embody the most important aspects of Enshin Karate. For
me, above all else, the 'inner circle' of Enshin Karate represents the strong
bonds that keep us together. The strength of this organization depends on the
ability of each of us to listen to our hearts, and to relate to others through
it.
What Is Enshin
Strategy
?
The circle is the essence of
the strategy and movement in Enshin Karate. The infinite points on a circle
represent the unlimited positions we move to and counter from in meeting an?
opponent. This circular movement that takes one out of a line of attack and into
a position from which he can counter attack is the basis for Enshin Karate
technique. The Enshin circle is an open circle. It is not complete,
although it strives to be. It represents the idea that our challenge is never
finished, although we are always working towards making it so. This unfinished
state is a source of motivation and it reminds us that perfection is to aimed
for even if it cannot be achieved. The middle ring in our logo represents
the cycle that is the essence of our training as well as life. In training we
begin as a white belt, and move through the darkening belts before becoming a
black belt. When we achieve the black belt we begin anew. So, too, in life. Each
goal we reach marks a new beginning. The Enshin Karate-do is not the only
Way. But I believe very strongly in it. It is my wish to offer Enshin Karate to
anyone whose heart and mind believes with me in this Way. Then, together, we can
all work to finish the circle.
|