On the Shinto shelf (Kamidana) sit various items. As I was taught, most of those items represent elements that are necessary to support life itself: Fire via the candles, Salt, Water, Rice, Plant life etc… though one wonders whether Sake (rice wine) is necessary to …
Shinto
The Shinto This is our next installment of “Gifts from My Teacher” where we are sharing about traditional Japanese items that are often part of martial art dojos (schools). The center focus and primary object on the Kamidana is the Shinto, a small shrine or …
Kamidana
The Kamidana… what is it? Let’s continue with our series about “Gifts from My Teacher“.Literally translated from Japanese, Kamidana means god shelf or spirit shelf. I am no expert in the Japanese culture, let’s start with that. But, I will share what I know about …
Happy New Year
As we look back on the successes and accomplishments of 2022, we can reflect on how far we have come. Now, as we plan for the upcoming year of 2023, we set new goals and revise old ones with courage and determination. May the new …
Beginnings: A Self Defense Journey
Gigi Simmons started her pistol training in Nevada, in the Spring of 2008 with Beyond CCW’s Practical Pistol Course. In 2010 she began Tactical Rifle Training. She has continued to study and train since then to further her knowledge in the discipline of firearms use …
Beginnings: How Sensei Found the Martial Arts
For those interested in a little more background on Sensei Brian Simmons beginnings in martial arts, here is some deeper history. Sensei Brian Simmons’ interest in martial arts began around 1990. Lost in a world of confusion, he came to believe that the discipline of …
Why Learn to Fall?
Learn to fall and roll in ways that save your body help prevent or minimize injuries from falls that can happen in our every-day lives.