The Katas: The Meaning behind the Movements
(Paperback)
Publishing Details
The Katas: The Meaning behind the Movements
By (Author) Kenji Tokitsu
Inner Traditions Bear and Company
Inner Traditions Bear and Company
3rd September 2010
United States
Classifications
General
Non Fiction
796.815
Physical Properties
Paperback
192
Width 152mm, Height 229mm, Spine 10mm
318g
Description
The embodiment of the ancient knowledge that underlies the dedication-to-perfection philosophy of Japan
How mastering these specific movement sequences known as katas provides a way to deepen ones martial arts practice spiritually
Explores the psychological and social importance of the katas in martial arts and Japanese society, including their role in seppuku (ritual suicide)
Includes many examples from the lives of famous masters, from the legendary samurai Miyamoto Musashi to 20th-century poet Yukio Mishima
An essential part of the martial arts of Japan, such as sumo and karate, the katas are specific sequences of movement that originated during Sakoku, Japans period of closure to the outside world from 1633 until 1853. The dedication-to-perfection philosophy of the katas, ubiquitous in Japanese society, is vital to understanding the spiritual aspects of their martial arts as well as other traditional Japanese arts, such as flower arranging, chad (tea ceremonies), and kabuki theater.
With examples from the lives of famous masters, from legendary samurai Miyamoto Musashi to 20th-century poet Yukio Mishima, this book explores the psychological and social importance of the katas, including their role in seppuku (ritual suicide), the student-master relationship, and gyo (the point at which the practitioner breaks the mold of the kata and begins to embody it). Looking at their origins in the warrior class and how this pursuit of perfection is ultimately a way to accept the power of death, the author explains how performing the katas transmits ancient knowledge much deeper than just technical movements, providing a way to deepen ones martial arts practice spiritually.
Reviews
. . . The Katas is an intriguing collection of principles and makes for a fascinating read and enlightening read, highly recommended. * James A. Cox, The Midwest Book Review, November 2010 *
Author Bio
Kenji Tokitsu has doctorates in sociology and in Japanese civilization. Born in Japan, he began studying martial arts as a child. In 1971 he moved to France and began teaching karate. He founded the Shaolin-mon Karate-do school in Paris in 1983 and the Tokitsu-ryu Academy in 2001. The author of Miyamoto Musashi: His Life and Writings and Ki and the Way of the Martial Arts, he lives in France.
