Isshin-Ryu History Tatsuo Shimabuku Founder/Grandmaster Megami Isshin-Ryu Symbol Isshin-Ryu Karate Do One Heart Empty Hand Way Isshin-Ryu - One Heart Way "One Heart Way" is the actual translation of the work Isshin-Ryu. It is also the definition of the very basic spirit of Karate. The oriental symbols or characters that spell out the words Isshin-Ryu can also correctly be translated as "concentration" in Japanese. This remarkable similarity actually adds greatly to the meaning. Isshin-Ryu is that ability to clear your mind of all useless thoughts, allowing your mind to concentrate with single-minded purposefulness on your ultimate goal. Success in Karate, or any field, can be obtained by an unswerving dedication to the tasks involved...it must be a complete dedication. It is similar to the principles of Zen involving the coordination of mind and body. The principles of Zen, beautiful in themselves, are used in Karate with the same single purpose...making the person into a well coordinated unit. The mind and body becoming one. The "oneness" of mind and body is another way of saying "Isshin-Ryu," the One Heart Way. Although these concepts are at first difficult to understand, through continuous practice of and devotion to Karate these concepts will become clear. Without this sense of concentration or determination, it has been found that Karate becomes empty, weak, and lifeless. Always remember that concentration makes you more intense, stronger, and purer. These are the paths to Isshin-Ryu. One of the doctrines of Buddhism is also true of Karate: "It can be comprehended only after long, hard discipline and by enduring what is most difficult to endure, and by practicing what is most difficult to practice. Men of inferior virtue and wisdom are not allowed to understand anything about it. All the labors of such ones will come to naught." Another way of interpreting Isshin-Ryu is; "Know Yourself" or "To Thine Self Be True." Tatsuo Shimabuku Megami Symbol & Patch Code of Isshin-Ryu Principles of Isshin-Ryu Advantages of Isshin-Ryu History of Isshin-Ryu Weapons Katas History of Karate -- DISCOUNT COUPON -- Pay Pal Orders Only      Expires: 10-31-05 Maki-Pro System Makiwara Click Here For Maki-Pro Special Offers Page     Top of Page Home | About Us | What's New | Products | Isshin-Ryu Karate | Self Defense | Control Tactics | Isshin-Ryu History | Links | Contact Us | Site Index Guardian Dragon Dojo 602 S. Ridgeway Ave. • Champaign, IL 61821 217-355-5676 sholy@guardiandragon.com www.GuardianDragon.com Webmaster Site Development: Guardian Dragon Web