The Art of Iaido
The sword has a mystique about it. For centuries, it has been the weapon of choice during battle times. In Japan, it represents more than just a weapon used in battle it is a key focus in the discipline called Iaido and it is a Martial Arts Art. Iaido started in and around the 1500’s and is a descendent of different sword disciplines all from ancient Japan. It combines aspects of Budo, and religions such as Taoism, Zen and Bushido.
Literally Iaido means “the way of being immediately prepared for a surprise attack.” Another way to explain its philosophy, is “ being present”. The training behind Iaido is heavily philosophical and trains the practitioner to be ready for quick attacks. Practitioners start off their training with a wooden sword, known as a Bokken, then gradually work their way to a dull bladed sword then onto a sharp edged sword. Iaido emphasizes, the drawing of the sword, precision of movements, control of the techniques and the graceful flow of movements. There also some cutting techniques that are taught in Iaido. The morals of Iaido are influenced from the classical warriors in all ways- Physically, Mentally and Spiritually. There is no sparring in Iaido. Kata, (pre-arranged patterns, also known as ‘forms’) are also at the heart of Iaido. During kata the practitioner, imagines an invisible fight. This trains the mind to be sharp and present, the body for the techniques behind each attack. Almost done like a meditation, the kata requires such emptiness of the mind that it trains your spirit as well.
Iaido has been a fundamental part of Japanese Martial Arts for centuries with its art passed down from generation to generation. In fact, in 1932, the Dai Nippon Butoku Kai officially recognized it as a Martial Arts discipline. Today it is practiced all over the world as a beautiful and precision martial art. Anyone who has seen a demonstration in it, is awed by the gracefulness, passion and emotion behind movements. The movements may seem simplistic, yet the precision required from the practitioner is extremely important. Such precision comes from dedication and discipline. Like the empty handed Martial Arts, Iaido is at its core rooted in philosophy and its focus is betterment on all levels of the martial artist.
Tracy Warener has been fortunate to have been raised within the Martial Arts since the age of 4 years old and is a 4th Degree Black Belt in Goju Ryu Karate. She has had the opportunity to study with some amazing Martial Artists. Sensei Richard Kim Sensei Peter Urban, Professor Don Jacob, Sensei Jim Wilson, Professor Wally Jay, just to name several. Of course her main Sensei is her father, Sensei Don Warrener. Throughout the 40 plus years of her involvement in the Martial Arts, she has worked he way from being a student of the martial arts to a Martial Arts Sensei ,teaching hundreds of students. She has ran and manage martial arts schools teaching students of all ages, worked within the community teaching at fitness centres, schools, businesses and Women’s Shelters, the benefits of Karate. One the causes close to her heart is teaching and empowering young girls and women the importance of self defence and awareness. Her program called Look Strong! Act Strong! Be Strong! focuses on easy self defence techniques and mind self defence techniques. In 2013 she was awarded The Silver Lifetime Achievement Award in the Masters of the Martial Arts Hall of Fame in California for her contribution to Women in the Martial Arts. She is also a Certified Reflexologist and Reiki Master. She has starred in three of her own DVDs produced by Rising Sun Productions on Reiki, Reflexology and her Look Strong ,Act Strong ,Be Strong Self Defence Program. tracy.warrenerentertainment@gmail.com
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