Shin Shin Course

As a follow up to the successful introductory Jo course, Dai Ippo, held earlier in the year, the prestigious Japan Institute held a course on the second kata of the series, Shin Shin. Translating as New Spirit this relatively small kata further introduces the practitioner into the technique and approach of old school Jyu Jutsu Jo work.

Colwell sensei was suffering with an injured knee so gave the course over to his Uchi Deshi, Trevor Streets.

Streets sensei started the class with a recap of Dai Ippo, re-examining pertinent points and exploring the bunkai of the technique. One of the great aspects of these type of koryu kata when compared to say modern karate kata is that the constant reference to this stance and that stance is abandoned. Rather the participants have to find their own stance which gives them the stability but movement to deliver the techniques. Koryu Jo Kata has a flow and movement not seen in mainstream Karate kata.

Again as each movement was practised, Streets sensei gave his interpretation of the application but noted that this was he's view and any others were equally as valid. Streets sensei then went on to explain that the koryu systems never dictated the performance of the kata but rather gave you the bones of the skeleton and allowed you to add the flesh by yourself.

As always when you get deeply absorbed, the time passed very quickly and all too soon it was time to finish the course. Thanks to Guy for hosting the course at his great Southport dojo.