Kokyū (Budō)

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Kokyu ( Jap. 呼吸 ) denotes the "breathing" and is made up of ko ( "breathe") and kyū ( "breathe").

According to the Far Eastern view, the breath and the Ki (Japanese) (= Chinese Qi = inner life energies) are of the same origin. More precisely, breath is an essential and special form of Ki. Through appropriate breathing exercises, the Ki can be absorbed when breathing in, bound by holding the breath and distributed into the body and / or space when breathing out. In the western literature on the martial arts , Kokyū-nage is therefore often translated (wrongly out of misunderstandings) as "breath power throw". In reality, however, the kokyū is about pure, natural, experiential breathing and has nothing to do with "power".

"Inhaling binds and unites, in holding on to the breath the right thing happens, and exhalation lets go, loosens and completes by overcoming all limitations."

- Kenzō Awa

Exercises

  • various kokyū (= breathing) and balance exercises
  • various Hassei (= voice insert) exercises
  • Meditation : Seiza- ( Mokusō ) (= silent meditation while sitting): here: essential: conscious breathing or letting the breathing flow
  • Kokyū-Doza (= breathing seat on the floor, also: Kokyū-Hō; partner exercises in a sitting position)
  • various Kokyū nages (= breath throw). Partner exercises that end in a throw.

Your own Ki should adapt to or connect with the Ki of the partner / opponent through movement and breathing rhythm (= Ai-Ki). It is explicitly taught primarily in Aikido , but is also used in other Budo sports, e.g. B. Judo or Karatedo, an integral part of the practice or training. Actually, it should be an essential part of all Budo sports, including u. a. be in Kendō, Nihongata and Iaidō.

A particular problem of the Budo sports in the western world today is the neglect or failure to practice this essential component. Budo sports are reduced to (combat) sports, which is precisely why the risk of injury increases enormously.

literature

  • André Protin. Aikido. The martial art without violence: A way of self-discovery and lifestyle. ISBN 3-466-34092-6