The Philosophical Principles of Taidō

Taidō, a dynamic and comprehensive martial art, goes beyond the realm of physical techniques to embrace a deep philosophical foundation. This article explores the underlying philosophical principles that guide Taidō, revealing its unique blend of physical training, mental development, and ethical conduct. By understanding these principles, practitioners can gain a deeper appreciation of Taidō as a path to personal growth and societal contribution.

The External and Internal Properties of Taidō

Taidō's philosophical foundation can be dissected into external and internal properties, each contributing to the overall practice and mindset of the martial art.

External Properties

The external properties of Taidō emphasize the physical aspects of the art, describing it as a "Budo that utilizes one's whole body to exert offensive and defensive techniques while simultaneously changing the body's axis." This definition highlights several key components:

• **Budo**: Unlike sports or combat fighting, Budo seeks to attain the vitality required to maintain life.
• **Utilization of the Whole Body**: Incorporation of hand, leg, and elbow techniques.
• **Offensive and Defensive Techniques**: Appropriate selection and application of techniques for both offense and defense.
• **Changing the Body Axis**: Shifting the body axis in five movements: Sen, Un, Hen, Nen, and Ten.

Internal Properties

The internal properties of Taidō define it as "a creative martial art that seeks to attain the pinnacle of true art through the harmonization of limitless movement and the body's given function." This aspect focuses on:

• **Creativity**: Pursuing evolution and change within the martial art.
• **Pinnacle of True Art**: Rational sublimation of martial attributes like self-defense, offense, and defense.
• **Harmonization**: Achieving balance through self-awareness and awareness of others.
• **Limitless Movements**: Embracing natural and social phenomena in training.
• **Body's Given Function**: Utilizing every physical and psychological function innate to humans.

General Properties and Societal Impact

Taidō also encompasses general properties that address its acceptance and impact within society. These properties are defined as "a martial art that considers the self-formation as an autonomous individual through the acquisition of the rational law of practical skills and morality." This definition underscores:

• **Self-Formation**: Developing a rational and pragmatic self capable of influencing society.
• **Acquisition of Practical Skills and Morality**: Attaining skills and moral values through conscious, goal-oriented training.

The Meaning of "Dō" in Taidō

The character "Dō" (道) in Taidō holds profound significance, representing the "path that people should follow." Unlike mere technical art, "Dō" defines the invisible path achieved through the practice of techniques for learning. This path leads to a righteous way where humans recognize each other, respect individuality, and pursue humanism, such as peace and welfare.

The Basic Principles of Taidō

Taidō practitioners are active members of society who possess the energy needed to exist. This energy must be understood, connected to creative activities, and given back to society. The practice of Taidō involves:

• **Understanding Techniques and Human Behavior**: Linking one's energy to creative activities and societal contribution.
• **Rational and Creative Application**: Applying Budo principles rationally and creatively to justify martial arts' value in modern society.

Ethical Foundations and Universal Virtues

Taidō actively incorporates ethics into its training, emphasizing the universal virtues of sincerity, justice, and compassion. These virtues are chosen to achieve common goals of liberty, equality, peace, and happiness. They guide the use of "power" within Taidō, ensuring that it is applied responsibly and ethically.

The Principles of Breathing, Movement, and Control

Taidō's techniques are governed by the principles of Taiki (breathing), Dōkō (movement), and Seigyo (control). These principles guide the application and efficiency of techniques, ensuring that movements are coherent, efficient, and effective:

• **Taiki**: Coherent breathing method to maximize effect with minimal energy.
• **Dōkō**: Efficient movement to control the opponent and enhance technique.
• **Seigyo**: Effective control to adapt flexibly and link movements seamlessly.

Conclusion

Taidō's philosophical principles offer a comprehensive framework for practitioners to develop both physically and mentally. By integrating external and internal properties, ethical foundations, and principles of breathing, movement, and control, Taidō transcends mere physical techniques to become a path of personal growth and societal contribution. Practitioners are encouraged to understand these principles deeply and apply them in their training and daily lives, fostering a well-rounded and harmonious existence.