In many martial arts, students are taught to “finish strong” — to end a technique with posture, focus, and intent. In Iaijutsu, this quality is

In Iaijutsu, the sword is not simply held — it is gripped with intention. This is the essence of tenouchi (手の内), often translated as “inside

In Japanese swordsmanship, the names of waza often hide deeper meanings, carrying lessons for both the body and the spirit. Yaegaki — usually translated as

In Iaijutsu, the sword is rarely moved in isolation. Every movement is the result of a coordinated action between body, sword, and scabbard. Yet one

  The draw is one of the defining features of Iaijutsu. Known as nukitsuke, it is often the first movement of a kata and the

In the early stages of Iaijutsu training, many students—especially those with a background in other martial arts or strength-based sports—tend to approach cutting techniques with

  Spirit and Steel: Shintō (神道), Bushidō (武士道), and the Heart of Iaijutsu (居合術) When we draw the sword in Iaijutsu (居合術), we are not

Body alignment is a fundamental aspect of executing effective cuts with a katana. Proper alignment ensures that the force generated by your body is efficiently

In the world of martial arts, there are many aspects beyond physical technique that contribute to a practitioner’s success. One such essential concept is heijoshin,

In the realm of martial arts, there exists a discipline that goes beyond physical techniques, urging us to develop a strong and unwavering spirit. In