Zen Breathing Seminar

There are many openings and clichés that I could use to open this letter but I feel it is just best to get to the point, attempt to clear up any misunderstandings and some way save that part of Isshinryu that is gone or almost will be gone. There may be some dojo out there that teach Zazen but I doubt it.

The first question that will come up is why you have to purchase the Sanchin packet, an easily answered question. In all likelihood we will have only one day to set forth a proper seminar and still find time to promote and accept membership into Guardian Karate Association, unless attendance and economics allow a second day.
Keep in mind promotions in rank are for Sempai only, the chief instructor who usually awards rank in his or her own dojo. Rank will be issued to kohai at discretion and on approval of the sempai of their dojo.

The book: Contains important information needed to follow the gist of the seminar without me having to take valuable time to explain something that is already in the book as well as valuable training methods, history and the study of four of the 8 koan included in Isshinryu. Also contained is pictorial teaching of Sanchin kata as it was taught in 1956.
Video tape: This tape includes a complete class, including Zazen, Zen breathing methods. The class demonstrates how Sanchin was taught in 1956. This version is completely different than any other version of Sanchin. Tatsuo Shimabukuro demonstrates 1964 and 1966 versions, also both different.
Audio Tape: Probably the main reason that it will take some time to get ready for class. One side of the tape is used at bedtime. It is great for those who suffer from not being able to sleep. The opposite side is used at the end of each class or workout. This tape ends with music timed to the exact amount of time needed to perform the kata properly at ending of tape.

I will be teaching Sanchin, Seisan, Seiunchin and Naihanchi. I will not attempt to change your method of performing these kata as you do now and will not change anything your Sensei taught you. I personally think it is an insult to your sensei to have a stranger come in and teach kata that your own sensei already took the time to teach you.

Only those students who have accidentally have this state of mind imposed upon them when performing kata or kumite will understand the great benefits of Zazen or Zen breathing methods. Your opponent actually appears to be moving in slow motion while you perform at your normal rate of action.

When attending this seminar have with you proof of your existing rank and a head and shoulders photo in gi. I will be using guidelines set forth by my Sensei, Tatsuo Shimabukuro to certify and or award advancement in rank.

If, in the event any person, Sempai or kohai wants to join Guardian Karate Association go to http://www.shimabuku.com/gka.html at www.shimabuku.com and you will read everything about Guardian, download applications and you will be able to gain a lifetime membership with Guardian and your rank diploma will be issued upon approval.