Latest news with #Aikido
Indian Express
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
This Japanese philosophy teaches us that the slow and steady really does win the race
Have you ever noticed how some things just seem to unfold in a natural rhythm—whether it's a great story, a powerful speech, or even a simple conversation? In Japanese culture, this idea is captured by the principle of Jo-Ha-Kyu (序破急), a concept that describes how events should gradually build up momentum and end with impact. This timeless approach is used in traditional, martial arts, business, and modern entertainment. But more than that, it's a pattern we can apply to our lives. At its core, Jo-Ha-Kyu is about progression—starting slow, building up energy, and finishing strong. The phrase itself can be broken down into three stages: Jo (序): The introduction—things begin slowly, setting the stage and creating a foundation. Ha (破): The break—momentum picks up, changes occur, and tension builds. Kyu (急): The climax—everything comes together in a fast-paced, intense resolution. This pattern isn't just a theory—you can observe it in nature, music, storytelling, and even human interaction. It reflects the way things naturally evolve over time. 1. Traditional Japanese arts In classical Noh theater, performances follow this structure: a slow, atmospheric beginning (Jo), a rising conflict (Ha), and a dramatic finish (Kyu). Similarly, the tea ceremony follows a peaceful opening, a moment of engagement, and a satisfying conclusion. 2. Martial arts and movement If you watch a Kendo or Aikido match, you'll notice a similar pattern: fighters begin cautiously, waiting and observing (Jo). Then, the pace quickens as attacks and defenses flow (Ha), before reaching an explosive, decisive strike (Kyu). Even sumo wrestling follows this rhythm, with its elaborate pre-match rituals leading to a sudden burst of action. 3. Business and productivity Even in the corporate world, this principle applies. In Japanese business culture, projects are carefully planned (Jo), tested and adjusted (Ha), and finally launched or executed at full speed (Kyu). Companies like Toyota use this philosophy in their production processes, ensuring efficiency and smooth execution. 4. Storytelling, film, and entertainment Great movies, books, and even anime follow the Jo-Ha-Kyu structure. Think of a film like Seven Samurai by Akira Kurosawa—there's a slow buildup as the heroes gather (Jo), the tension rises as conflicts emerge (Ha), and everything culminates in a high-energy battle (Kyu). Even video games use this idea, with early levels being simple, the middle growing more challenging, and the final stage delivering an intense climax. Understanding Jo-Ha-Kyu isn't just valuable for art or business—it's something you can apply to your daily routine: Whether you're writing a book, preparing a presentation, or simply planning your day, embracing this flow can make your efforts more effective and engaging. Once you start noticing it, you'll see this pattern everywhere—from nature to entertainment, work to personal growth. If you apply it yourself, you might find that things start falling into place more naturally than ever before.
The Star
17-07-2025
- General
- The Star
More than just martial art
The Shudokan has trained thousands of students, a majority of whom came from schools and communities around Seremban. Parents, students among guests gathered to celebrate 64th anniversary of nation's first dojo centre in Seremban THE Shudokan, Malaysia's first aikido dojo (Japanese self-defence art school) located in Seremban, Negri Sembilan, recently held an open day to mark its 64th anniversary of cultivating unity, wellness and community spirit. More than 100 guests including parents and students thronged the martial arts centre for the celebration. The centre was founded in 1961 by the late Thamby Rajah Sensei who was the country's first black belt in both aikido and judo. Aikido Shudokan international chief instructor Joe Thambu Shuseki Shihan said the centre has long served as a gathering place where Malaysians from diverse backgrounds grew together in the spirit of muhibbah, guided by the discipline and philosophy of Aikido. 'For 64 years, this dojo has stood as a quiet, steady example of how unity can thrive through shared values and friendships. 'Aikido isn't just a tradition we preserve for nostalgia, it's a way forward. 'In an increasingly divided world, it reminds us to move with empathy, to resolve conflict without aggression and to uplift those around us,' he said. Joe Thambu, who is also Thamby Rajah's nephew, has spent his life carrying forward his uncle's vision of using aikido as a bridge for unity and self-improvement. Joe Thambu (right) performing during a demonstration at the open day. He expressed pride in The Shudokan's enduring relevance and how it mirrors Malaysia's social harmony. 'I believe this martial art will keep bringing Malaysians together, generation after generation, because its core message of harmony is timeless,' he said. The open day event also acknowledged The Shudokan's recognition as the National Press Club – Macrokiosk Muhibbah Awards 2024 winner, which he said affirmed its long-standing contribution to inclusivity and goodwill to the community. At the event, guests from all walks of life spoke warmly of the dojo's welcoming culture. A parent, Sirajuddin Aziz, whose two children had been training at the dojo for the last year said 'It is rare to find places like this where values are passed down through generations.' 'It is not just about martial arts, but about raising good people, learning respect and being part of a supportive community,' he said. Wilson Wu, a student at the dojo since 2014, said The Shudokan felt like home. 'The friends I've made here and the lessons I've learned, go far beyond what happens on the mat,' he said. The open day programme included demonstrations, beginner-friendly trial classes, family activities and games. There were also local food stalls. The Shudokan is the first aikido school outside of Japan. It also is home of The Shudokan Aikido Schools Worldwide and is affiliated as well as recognised by Aikido Shudokan International.
NDTV
08-07-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Harvard Recommends These 3 Activities Over Walking Or Running For Adults Over 60
Harvard Medical School has identified a surprising activity as one of the best ways for older adults to stay fit and healthy: martial arts. While walking and jogging are commonly suggested, Harvard experts say that certain martial arts, especially Tai Chi, offer greater benefits for people over the age of 60. These martial arts are not about fighting or high-speed action. Instead, they focus on slow, mindful movements that improve balance, strength, and mental clarity. According to Harvard research, practices like Tai Chi, Aikido, and Wing Chun are especially suitable for seniors. These activities are gentle on the joints and can reduce the risk of falls, enhance flexibility, and improve overall well-being. Dr Peter M Wayne of Harvard Medical School has studied the effects of Tai Chi on ageing. His research shows that it helps the body stay responsive and coordinated, even in later years. Tai Chi also boosts memory and concentration through its complex yet calming routines. Unlike high-impact exercises, martial arts involve controlled motion and deep breathing, which also help reduce stress and improve sleep. In addition to physical benefits, group classes can help older adults stay socially connected, an important factor in maintaining emotional health. While Tai Chi is often the most recommended due to its slow and flowing style, other forms such as Aikido and Wing Chun can also be adapted for seniors. These styles focus on smooth movements and self-awareness rather than force or speed. Experts suggest speaking with a doctor before beginning any new exercise. It is also helpful to find an instructor experienced in teaching seniors to ensure safety and confidence during practice.
Rakyat Post
03-07-2025
- General
- Rakyat Post
64 Years Of Muhibbah For Seremban Aikido Dojo
Subscribe to our FREE The Shudokan, a respected Seremban landmark and Malaysia's first Aikido dojo, welcomed over 100 visitors to its Aikido Open Day on Saturday, 28 th June 2025, marking 64 years of cultivating unity, wellness and community spirit in the town and beyond. Founded by the late Thamby Rajah Sensei in 1961, The Shudokan has built a reputation as more than just a martial arts school. It has long served as a gathering place where Malaysians from diverse backgrounds grow together in the spirit of Muhibbah, guided by the discipline and philosophy of Aikido. The Open Day treated guests to dynamic demonstrations, beginner-friendly trial classes, family activities, games, and local food stalls, with attendees experiencing firsthand the values of respect, resilience and harmony that the dojo continues to promote. Joe Thambu Shuseki Shihan (Chief Instructor) of Aikido Shudokan International performs a demonstration during The Shudokan's Open Day. Joe Thambu Shuseki Shihan (Chief Instructor) of Aikido Shudokan International, and nephew of Thamby Rajah, has spent his life carrying forward his uncle's vision of using Aikido as a bridge for unity and self-improvement. He expressed pride in The Shudokan's enduring relevance and how it mirrors Malaysia's social harmony. 'The Shudokan has always been a reflection of what makes this country special, a place where people of all races and beliefs come together with mutual respect,' he said. 'For 64 years, this dojo has stood as a quiet, steady example of how unity can thrive through shared values and friendships.' He also shared his hopes for the future of Aikido in Malaysia and what it can continue to offer in modern times. 'Aikido isn't just a tradition we preserve for nostalgia; it's a way forward. In an increasingly divided world, it reminds us to move with empathy, to resolve conflict without aggression, and to uplift those around us,' he added. 'I believe this art will keep bringing Malaysians together, generation after generation, because its core message of harmony is timeless.' Children performing a demonstration during The Shudokan's Open Day. The Open Day also acknowledged The Shudokan's recent recognition as the National Press Club–MACROKIOSK Muhibbah Award winner for December 2024, affirming its long-standing contribution to inclusivity and goodwill in Malaysia. People from all walks of life spoke warmly of the dojo's welcoming culture. Sirajuddin Aziz, a parent whose two children have been training at the dojo for the last year already, expressed, 'It's rare to find places like this where values are passed down through generations. It's not just about martial arts — it's about raising good people, learning respect, and being part of a supportive community.' Wilson Wu, a student since 2014, added, 'This place feels like home. The friends I've made here, and the lessons I've learned, go far beyond what happens on the mat.' As the event drew to a close with a warm community gathering, it was clear that The Shudokan remains a living testament to Malaysia's enduring tradition of unity in diversity, and a space where new generations will continue to grow together. Share your thoughts with us via TRP's . Get more stories like this to your inbox by signing up for our newsletter.
South China Morning Post
28-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- South China Morning Post
1 Chinese auntie, 5 apps, 60 first dates
Just before the pandemic hit, I emerged from a 10-year relationship – newly single and stuck with half a mortgage, a Brompton bike bought on an impulse and a high-maintenance ginkgo tree. After giving myself four months to recover, I bounced back into the dating world, not necessarily looking for a husband (yeah, right) but to conduct what I told myself was an anthropological experiment. So yes, this is about dating. On Tinder, Bumble, Hinge, all while donning the armour of a Chinese diasporic auntie in sensible shoes and with 40-something hang-ups. Too old for bars, I launched a three-pronged plan: swing dance classes (fun, but everyone was already coupled up from primary school), community centre craft sessions (mudslinging with lovely people – all born before 1955), and the intervention of meddlesome friends. 'Divorce market is hot right now,' said meddlesome friend E. 'Asian women are ageless! Just redefine 'relationship'.' Her bold new suggestion? An agricultural economist who did Aikido. We met – I soon ran out of Aikido-related small talk. So I turned to dating apps. Five of them. Because I am nothing if not a pragmatic auntie maximising outcomes.
