A Pacific-Asian philosophy of life, health and the
natural flow of the universe.
The Danzan path begins at the crossroads of classical Chinese, Japanese and Hawaiian beliefs. Master Okazaki passed down a set of fundamental “principles of judo” in his Mokuroku (Teachers Scroll). It was his contention that the mysteries of the ancient arts would reveal themselves in life if the true Path was followed. “Only through personal experience can one comprehend the mystic ecstasy of such secrets.”
 From the Taoist beliefs of the ancient Chinese (Tao or Dao meaning Path) comes the notion that the universe is in constant change and transformation. This dynamic is represented by the two aspects of all creation: Yin and Yang. All traditional Asian sciences, including the healing arts, are based in this belief. To have harmony in nature is to have perfect health. Balance between the two extremes creates abundant “Qi” (life force energy) and is therefore critical in all things. Master Okazaki stressed moderation in all things as one of the keys to prosperity. We who follow the Danzan path constantly assess our own balance on the mat, at work, play, relationships, and all other aspects of our being.
 From the Shinto beliefs of the ancient Japanese comes the idea that Nature is to be revered and that the spirits of our ancestors live on in its many manifestations. Master Okazaki believed that maintaining healthy relationships with your family would lead to healthy communities and nations. He believed that service to others was the highest form of expression in our attempt to understand our own true Nature. Harmony and reverence for nature helps to create abundant “Ki” (life force energy) and is critical to healthy living. We therefore practice our Arts and Ways with the utmost regard for our friends, family, teachers and environment.
 From the Huna wisdom of the ancient Hawaiians comes the belief that man is composed of three selves: The conscience self, the sub conscience self and the higher conscience self. These three “Minds” are inextricably linked by “Aka” (ethereal conduit) and are energetically maintained by “Mana” (life force energy) For one to cultivate Mana (Ho’o manamana), one must live his life with “Pono” or truth. With enough Mana coursing through his body, one was able to harmonize the three minds and experience the subtle realms of reality. Master Okazaki believed that “Kokua” (helping each other with no expectation) was critical to the Path. He also believed that fostering a feeling of “Ohana” (family) towards others was “Pono” or “of the Truth.” It is held that health, happiness and satisfaction in life are derived from or “Ho’o manamana” ... literally: to “empower” yourself.
 Understanding the connection between the Martial and Healing arts is crucial to the full development of both. Imbedded within the Danzan Arts are the principles and theories of the ancient Ways described above. It is said that diligent practice in the internal aspects of the arts will spontaneously and simultaneously produce results in the external realm. “As it is in the microcosm - so as it is in the macrocosm.” Or, “That which is above is like that which is below, and that which is below is like that which is above.” These ancient axioms are known to many as the “Law of Convergence.” It’s this principle that enables the mindful practice of the arts to positively impact our lives. Danzan Ryu is about balancing mind, body and spirit to replace old fears with greater self-awareness and self-confidence. To empower yourself to be who you truly are and to help others do the same.
Master Okazaki’s Principles
Selected Articles
-Continue Tour-
|
