Budo, or the practice of traditional Japanese martial arts for self-cultivation, is about more than learning how to fight. Real budo is a way of seeking and grasping meaning in life. Traditional Japanese martial arts have close ties to Zen Buddhism, and students of such arts as iaido, kendo, aikido, judo, and karate-do, among others, are required to work
tirelessly to refine body, mind, and spirit.
In 'Budo Mind And Body', Nicklaus Suino, one of the foremost martial arts teachers in North America, reveals the nuts and bolts of budo training including:
How to develop technical skills
How to determine the principles behind techniques
How to develop physical strength, technical strength, and strength of character
How to discipline your mind to really focus and be in the present moment
Suino's advice on training and etiquette will be helpful to beginning students, and will act as a potent reminder to more seasoned practitioners. Advanced students will especially appreciate Suino's explanation of budo philosophy. In the appendices, the author also includes a survey of Japanese martial arts, the eight essential texts on budo, and an
annotated bibliography.
