Preserving Koryu Martial Arts: More Than Just Martial Canning
When we talk about preserving a Koryu martial art, what exactly are we preserving? The word "preserve" implies the act of maintaining something in its original state, much like making strawberry preserves ensures that the fruit's material literally remains unchanged over time. But when we apply this concept to martial arts, it becomes apparent that preservation goes beyond the physical techniques themselves.
Koryu martial arts are ancient and steeped in tradition, with lineages stretching back centuries. The techniques taught in these schools have been refined and passed down through generations of actual battlefield combat. However, when we watch old masters practice, we often notice subtle differences in their movements compared to the current curriculum. In the warring states period, it would be understandable, but for a Koryu art that is not being used in battlefield combat today, why the change? How is it being developed rather than diverged? So, what are we truly preserving in Koryu martial arts?
This is a stumbling block for many practitioners of marital arts when they are gageing the value of their martial art and comparing it to martial sport or combat and even self defence. Everyone limited sand in their hourglass and there is no way to turn it on its side.
Preserving the Principles of Techniques and Movement
At the heart of Koryu martial arts lies a set of fundamental principles that transcend specific techniques. These principles govern how practitioners move, react, and engage with their opponents. While the exact execution of techniques may vary from one generation to the next, these core principles remain constant. They guide the practitioner's understanding of balance, timing, distance, and leverage.
By preserving these principles, Koryu martial arts maintain their effectiveness as combat systems. These guiding principles are like the recipe for making strawberry preserves, ensuring that the martial art retains its essence and functionality.
Preserving the Way of the Sword
Koryu martial arts often revolve around the use of traditional Japanese weapons like the katana, jo, or naginata. These weapons are not just tools of combat; they symbolize a way of life and a code of honor. Preserving a Koryu martial art means upholding the spirit of the samurai, with its focus on discipline, respect, and self-improvement.
The way of the sword extends beyond physical techniques; it encompasses a mental and moral framework that shapes the practitioner's character. This is a crucial aspect of preservation – maintaining the warrior's ethos and instilling it in each new generation of martial artists.
Preserving the Unseen Principles
Koryu martial arts also emphasize the cultivation of inner qualities such as discipline, humility, and indomitable spirit. These intangible aspects of martial arts are equally important as the physical techniques. Just as strawberry preserves preserve the fruit's taste and texture, Koryu martial arts seek to preserve the spirit and mindset of the samurai.
Through rigorous training, practitioners develop a deep understanding of themselves and their place in the world. This self-awareness is a vital part of preserving the essence of Koryu martial arts.
In conclusion, preserving a Koryu martial art involves much more than simply replicating techniques from the past. It entails safeguarding the underlying principles, the way of the sword, and the intangible spirit that defines these ancient traditions. Much like making strawberry preserves ensures that the fruit remains true to its nature, preserving Koryu martial arts ensures that they retain their authenticity and continue to inspire generations to come. In doing so, we honor the legacy of the samurai and the profound wisdom embedded in these martial traditions.
