Bunbury Budokan

Why do we bow to the sword? Because it saves lives.

In Iaido, respect for the sword first and foremost from an extreme emphasis on safety.

Whether you are holding a live blade (Shinken) or a quality zinc-alloy practice sword (Iaito), you are handling a lethal weapon. The ritual of bowing is a mental "switch" that forces the practitioner into a state of Zanshin (heightened awareness).

An Iaito is more than just equipment; it is an extension of the practitioner’s body. The reasons for showing respect are simple:

Sword Maintenance : A quality Iaido sword is a complex and expensive piece of craftsmanship. Bowing represents a commitment to maintain it properly and handle it with professional care.

The Mental Shift: This movement serves as a reminder: what you are picking up is not a toy, but a lethal weapon.

Ultimately, respecting the blade is respecting life. It is a disciplined habit designed to prevent any injury caused by negligence.

Interesting read….

🌿The Wisdom of "Stopping Conflict" in Japanese Jodo

Jodo (杖道) is an ancient martial art centered around the concept of "balance."

The core of this discipline is the Jō, a wooden staff measuring approximately 1.28 meters (4 shaku, 2 sun, 1 bun) with a diameter of about 2.4 centimeters. Typically crafted from resilient Shirokashi (Japanese White Oak), it is a weapon of deceptive simplicity.

Unlike bladed weapons designed for lethal strikes, the origins of Jodo**Shinto Muso-ryu**were born from a philosophy of "victory without injury." Historically, it was developed to counter the sharpness of the Samurai sword. Without a cutting edge, the Jō relies on the mastery of distance (Maai), shifts in timing, and precision strikes to pressure and neutralize an opponent's aggression.

It is truly the art of "Shi-go" (止戈)—stopping the spear. The goal is not to destroy, but to resolve conflict through the fluidity and uprightness of the wooden staff.

Congratulations to bunbury budokan members Michelle and Andrew for their current successful kye grading challenges In Iaido and Jodo .
Excellent work

This Kendo saying speaks to something many overlook:
that balance is not only stillness, but constant, focused movement.

When you cross a narrow log above rushing water, hesitation is your enemy.
Look down too long, overthink your footing, freeze, and you fall.
But if your eyes stay steady, your breath calm, and your body in motion,
you make it across.

The same holds true in life, and in combat.
Overthinking kills timing. Doubt disrupts rhythm.
We grow not by standing still trying to feel ready,
but by trusting each step forward, especially the uncertain ones.

Concentration without action, can make one a great observer,
however, when action is needed, concentration alone leads to paralysis.

And on the other hand, action without concentration leads to chaos.
It’s the unity of the two that makes flow possible.

So whatever challenge you face now,
keep your attention sharp.
Keep your steps moving.

You’re crossing the log bridge.
Don’t stop now.

Today bunbury budokan was honoured to host anouther iaido seminar with sensi jerry .
It was a very informative and enjoyable day with excellent company.
Many thanks to all who attened .

Another year wrapped up for Bunbury budokan .
We wish club affiliations all the very best for the new year and a safe and happy Xmas .