We follow the three fundamental principles Kyu-Shin-Do 扱心道 within our practice of Kyushin-Do, this translates as the centripetal force or degree; Other variations of the calligraphy or writing used are: Kyu-Shindo, this translates from the Chinese Shinto philosophy ‘the way of the gods’ this can also be translated as, a globe or a new way; this is reflected in the Martial Arts, as it is in outside life.

We break this into three sections firstly we look at the Kyu this is a representation of a sphere or circle the ongoing search or study for knowledge. the second is shin which represents the heart or truth; it has also been referred to as the indomitable spirit within and thirdly the Do which translates as the way or the path referring to the way of life or life's journey.

Through these principles we, search for the heart of or the principal technique and follow that way, in search for the knowledge or truths within. We follow the philosophy and principles of Kenshiro Abbe; however, that being said; we have no pedagogical lineage link to Abbe, we follow the philosophy of his teachings as the Kyu-Shin-Do doctrines teach. As Kyu-Shin-Do is not and cannot be considered a ‘Martial Art’ but a ‘Budo Philosophy’ as stated by Kenshiro Abbe himself, the founding teacher. These fundamental principles are instrumental in the development of Tatchi Waza ‘standing techniques’ or takedowns.

These three principles or philosophes are cultivated through the study of Budo through three of zen's universal truths ‘Banbutsu Ruten’ 萬物流轉 This represents all things in the Universe are in a constant state of motion secondly ‘Ritsu Do’ 律ド This translates to motion is rhythmic and flowing, meaning that everything is in a state of motion and this philosophical perspective is used through ‘Randori’ translated as free practice or cooperative training.

Finally, ‘Chowa’ 調和 This translates to all things work and flow in perfect harmony. ‘Choshi Randori’ or cooperative practice, the idea behind this particular type of practise, is to cultivate perfection of technique.

This is done from the taking of the grip 組む ‘Kumi-Kata’, the momentum 弾み ‘Hazumi’, the combative distance 間合 ‘Ma-Ai’, the opening of the opponents defences, will the opportunity that arises from the uke’s energetic intentions 隙 ‘Suki’, -two note net when this practise is the context of full contact then this particular part would be referred to as 出端 ‘Debana’ which translates as, the opportunity manufactured created by the movement led by the Tori and not by the Uki.

Though which we continue the movement applying the principle of Kuzush 崩し thranslited as breaking the oponants Balance Or Crumbling Their Defence.

Then we have the completing of the technique 掛け ‘Kake’, followed by the control or pure thought 残心 ‘Zanshin’; this refers to the intention of the technique to the execution the technique, to the focus of the following through after the execution of the technique has been completed 決め ‘Kime’.

Recommended reading:

[To the Right of this page] A breif explanation of the principles, thoery and practice By Ian Parfitt.

Deshimaru, T., n.d. Zen Et Arts Martiaux. English;The Zen Way To The Martial Arts. Conway Street, London: Rider & Company, 1983, p.120.

The theory of Kyu-Shin-Do writing by Kenshiro Abbe 8th Dan.

Cai, Z., Bruya, B. and Sunzi, 1994. The Art Of War. Hammersmith, London: Thorsons, p.140.

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