Sunday, December 29, 2013

Practice for Life



2013.  We were warmly welcomed on a visit to the thriving New York City Kendo Club Dojo; with Founder Kataoka Sensei, Ishizuka Sensei, Spencer Wong, Cherico King and 40 or so others.










Its a thrilling challenge to translate this visual, kinetic and dramatic martial art, based on the philosophy of 'Bushido', into cinema.  An adrenalin boosted meditation; a non-violent practice for life.


With cinematographer Jason Beasely. Photos Amy Guggenheim.

 nyckendo.com
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Glimpses into Kendo - February 2011
In the film, two young people looking for a better way to live, brings them to Kendo practice.

It always starts the same......Walk into another space.....leave behind the day.....Dress, in 'Hakama' [Pleated Pants] and 'Gi' [Cotton Jacket] ....On the ground in 'Seiza', [Seated] set the 'Men' [Helmet] on the 'Kote' [Wrist Guards]....put on the 'Tenegui'[Head Towel], the 'Men' [Helmet] and the 'Bogu' [Torso Guard]....Slide the 'Tsuba' [Guard] on the 'Shinai' [Bamboo sword] and meditate. Rise, 'Men' faces 'Men'........'Hajime'! [Begin!]

"The sword here represents the force of intuitive or instinctual directness, whch, unlike the intellect, does not divide itself, blocking its own passageway." - D.T. Suzuki in Zen and Swordsmanship