(Notes and thoughts)
気: energy
合: to unify
Expressions of kiai: facial micro expressions (the stare, etc.); body language (posturing); overall attitude projected in conflict (Tairitsu [対立]), etc. (the way you move; physicality; non-physical [hands on] ways to control an adversary)
A power of suggestion by our behavior, expressions, body language and how we move.
This is the art and essence of kiai.
About vocalizing, in the traditional martial communities specific vocalizations are taught. These sounds are a trigger point of certain bodily manifestations that are found in concepts like Okinawan chinkuchi, causing dynamic tensioning such as tightening of the lower back muscles used in thrusting.
Each sound has deliberate meaning and objectives, tactically speaking. The idea is to induce hesitation, confusion and “the freeze,” to gain an advantage in the loop (the OODA).
Just a brief hesitation can be the matter of grave harm or death of an adversary or you, choose wisely.
Kiai is tied not to just vocalization but intimately with breathing. Kiai is therefore also the silent partner of all methodologies applied in violence fense, think of the application of chinkuchi.
Kiai no ri (気合 の 理) describes methods for employing energy to affect an adversary manifesting kihaku (希薄) [Tsuyoi seishin 強い精神] or strong spirit. Kiai is projecting energy through posture and breathing, often expressed as muscle and breath control.
Isshinryu is defined as “one heart/mind/spirit” which is readily perceived as “one” which we express through the saying, “all bottles good, all serve purpose” so when we apply our Isshinryu, we do so with mind, body and spirit that is likened to concepts such as kiai and chinkuchi and other esoteric terms that are gateways to the many that is the “one” or Isshinryu karate Jutsu!
More on Kiai:
Main article bibliography:
Lowry, Dave “Black Belt Magazine, April\May, Karate Way: What is Kiai?” 2022
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