Please take a look at Articles on self-defense/conflict/violence for introductions to the references found in the bibliography page.

Please take a look at my bibliography if you do not see a proper reference to a post.

Please take a look at my Notable Quotes

Hey, Attention on Deck!

Hey, NOTHING here is PERSONAL, get over it - Teach Me and I will Learn!


When you begin to feel like you are a tough guy, a warrior, a master of the martial arts or that you have lived a tough life, just take a moment and get some perspective with the following:


I've stopped knives that were coming to disembowel me

I've clawed for my gun while bullets ripped past me

I've dodged as someone tried to put an ax in my skull

I've fought screaming steel and left rubber on the road to avoid death

I've clawed broken glass out of my body after their opening attack failed

I've spit blood and body parts and broke strangle holds before gouging eyes

I've charged into fires, fought through blizzards and run from tornados

I've survived being hunted by gangs, killers and contract killers

The streets were my home, I hunted in the night and was hunted in turn


Please don't brag to me that you're a survivor because someone hit you. And don't tell me how 'tough' you are because of your training. As much as I've been through I know people who have survived much, much worse. - Marc MacYoung

WARNING, CAVEAT AND NOTE

The postings on this blog are my interpretation of readings, studies and experiences therefore errors and omissions are mine and mine alone. The content surrounding the extracts of books, see bibliography on this blog site, are also mine and mine alone therefore errors and omissions are also mine and mine alone and therefore why I highly recommended one read, study, research and fact find the material for clarity. My effort here is self-clarity toward a fuller understanding of the subject matter. See the bibliography for information on the books. Please make note that this article/post is my personal analysis of the subject and the information used was chosen or picked by me. It is not an analysis piece because it lacks complete and comprehensive research, it was not adequately and completely investigated and it is not balanced, i.e., it is my personal view without the views of others including subject experts, etc. Look at this as “Infotainment rather then expert research.” This is an opinion/editorial article/post meant to persuade the reader to think, decide and accept or reject my premise. It is an attempt to cause change or reinforce attitudes, beliefs and values as they apply to martial arts and/or self-defense. It is merely a commentary on the subject in the particular article presented.


Note: I will endevor to provide a bibliography and italicize any direct quotes from the materials I use for this blog. If there are mistakes, errors, and/or omissions, I take full responsibility for them as they are mine and mine alone. If you find any mistakes, errors, and/or omissions please comment and let me know along with the correct information and/or sources.



“What you are reading right now is a blog. It’s written and posted by me, because I want to. I get no financial remuneration for writing it. I don’t have to meet anyone’s criteria in order to post it. Not only I don’t have an employer or publisher, but I’m not even constrained by having to please an audience. If people won’t like it, they won’t read it, but I won’t lose anything by it. Provided I don’t break any laws (libel, incitement to violence, etc.), I can post whatever I want. This means that I can write openly and honestly, however controversial my opinions may be. It also means that I could write total bullshit; there is no quality control. I could be biased. I could be insane. I could be trolling. … not all sources are equivalent, and all sources have their pros and cons. These needs to be taken into account when evaluating information, and all information should be evaluated.” - God’s Bastard, Sourcing Sources (this applies to this and other blogs by me as well; if you follow the idea's, advice or information you are on your own, don't come crying to me, it is all on you do do the work to make sure it works for you!)



“You should prepare yourself to dedicate at least five or six years to your training and practice to understand the philosophy and physiokinetics of martial arts and karate so that you can understand the true spirit of everything and dedicate your mind, body and spirit to the discipline of the art.” - cejames (note: you are on your own, make sure you get expert hands-on guidance in all things martial and self-defense)



“All I say is by way of discourse, and nothing by way of advice. I should not speak so boldly if it were my due to be believed.” - Montaigne


I am not a leading authority on any one discipline that I write about and teach, it is my hope and wish that with all the subjects I have studied it provides me an advantage point that I offer in as clear and cohesive writings as possible in introducing the matters in my materials. I hope to serve as one who inspires direction in the practitioner so they can go on to discover greater teachers and professionals that will build on this fundamental foundation. Find the authorities and synthesize a wholehearted and holistic concept, perception and belief that will not drive your practices but rather inspire them to evolve, grow and prosper. My efforts are born of those who are more experienced and knowledgable than I. I hope you find that path! See the bibliography I provide for an initial list of experts, professionals and masters of the subjects.

The State of Isshin

Isshin no jōtai [一心の状態]


The Japanese concept of Isshin (一心) can be translated as “one heart” or “one mind.” It signifies a state of complete concentration, focus, and unity of intention, where the mind and heart are aligned toward a single goal or purpose. In martial arts and other disciplines, Isshin embodies the idea of wholehearted commitment to an action or task, with no distractions or divided attention.


Core Meanings of Isshin:


1. Undivided Focus: Isshin represents a state of undivided focus or single-mindedness. In martial arts, this can mean that the practitioner must be fully immersed in the moment, acting with full attention and intention without allowing external thoughts to interfere. Whether performing a kata, sparring, or responding to a threat, the martial artist must unify mind and body in the present action.

2. Heart and Mind as One: The term “心” (shin or “heart-mind”) refers to both cognitive and emotional aspects in Japanese thought. Therefore, Isshin suggests not just mental focus but also emotional dedication, merging the rational mind with feelings like passion, determination, or even serenity. In practice, this can mean acting with full sincerity, whether in physical movements or personal interactions.

3. Spiritual Undertone: In a broader, spiritual context, Isshin can reflect the principle of purity of purpose—having a clear, unobstructed path between one’s intentions and actions. This idea aligns with various Japanese spiritual and philosophical traditions, such as Zen Buddhism, where one cultivates a state of awareness that transcends the ego or distractions, acting with clarity and purpose in every moment.

4. Isshin in Martial Arts:

• Karate: In karate, Isshin is particularly important because it enables practitioners to act decisively and with full commitment in every strike, block, or movement. Hesitation, second-guessing, or a wandering mind could create openings for an opponent, making full focus essential. This concept also encourages karateka to unify their techniques, spirit, and intentions into one, bringing everything into a singular, cohesive action.

• Other Budo Disciplines: Similarly, Isshin applies to other Japanese martial arts like kendo, aikido, or judo. It is often associated with quick, decisive actions and perfect timing (e.g., when an opening presents itself, the practitioner must act immediately with full presence).

5. Application Beyond Martial Arts:

In Japanese culture, the concept of Isshin extends beyond martial arts. It can apply to various crafts, professions, and even daily life, reflecting the importance of doing things wholeheartedly. Whether an artisan is working on a piece of pottery, a chef is preparing a meal, or someone is simply conversing with another person, Isshin signifies complete immersion and sincerity in the act.


Historical and Philosophical Context:


• Isshin ties into Zen principles, where presence and mindfulness are essential. In Zen practice, there is often a call to “do one thing well” or to give full attention to the present moment, echoing the idea of single-minded focus.

• In the context of Budo (the martial way), Isshin also reflects the warrior’s need to be fully present in both life and death situations, where a moment of distraction could mean defeat or even death. The philosophy of “death in life” and “life in death” often associated with samurai culture emphasizes this level of focus, where living with intention and readiness is paramount.


Isshin-Ryu Karate:


There is also a specific style of karate named Isshin-Ryu (一心流), meaning “One Heart/Mind Style.” This style was founded by Tatsuo Shimabuku in Okinawa in the mid-20th century and emphasizes quick, effective techniques, a strong focus on both mental and physical unity, and an efficient, upright stance. The philosophy of Isshin-Ryu karate is deeply intertwined with the concept of Isshin itself—practitioners are encouraged to train with full commitment and integrate body, mind, and spirit into a singular, harmonious practice.


Key Takeaways:


• Isshin is about aligning heart and mind with full attention to a task.

• It reflects unity of purpose, total immersion, and undistracted focus, whether in martial arts or daily life.

• Isshin is a core concept in traditional Japanese martial arts, tied to decisive, clear actions.

• The concept extends beyond martial arts to reflect Japanese values of craftsmanship, sincerity, and dedication in all actions.


References:


• Hurst, G. Cameron. Armed Martial Arts of Japan: Swordsmanship and Archery. Yale University Press, 1998. (Discusses the significance of focus and unity of action in martial traditions.)

• Funakoshi, Gichin. Karate-dō: My Way of Life. Kodansha International, 1975. (Contains reflections on the philosophical and mental aspects of karate, including focus and mental unity.)

• Draeger, Donn F. The Martial Arts and Ways of Japan, Volume II: Classical Budo. Weatherhill, 1973. (Explores Japanese martial traditions and the importance of mental states like Isshin in classical Budo practices.)


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