​What is Shizen-Ryu Aiki-Jujutsu?​

BY: SENSEI C. J. KRIEGER​



The word Aiki-jujutsu means "The gentle art of harmony with the spirit." But don't be deceived by this translation! Although gentle in word and appearance Shizen-Ryu is without a doubt a lethal form of self-defense, and in accordance with the skill of the practitioner can inflict either pain and/or mortal injury on anyone foolish enough to try their luck on some seemingly unsuspecting jujutsuka.



I have to emphasize this... learning the basics of Shizen-Ryu (like the basics of all martial arts) is both fun and at times boring! Repetition... (the best way to learn any technique) by practicing it over and over again.... makes us ask the question... when does it ever end? Unfortunately it does not!



If you ever want to understand the art, if you want to become proficient, if you want to know why certain applications are used for a particular situation, then you must begin with basics. Kata (form) is where basics are learned



The name "Shizen" is a Japanese term which means "natural". The original Ryu (system) was developed over 900 years ago by SHINRA SABUYORO YOSHIMITSU as Daito Ryu. Over the years an additional style of kata based Jujutsu was incorporated into YOSHIMITSU's system. This allowed for both free form and regimented techniques to complement each other in an interactive, progressive form of martial art. This system is known today as Shizen-Ryu Aiki-Jujutsu.



Shizen-Ryu utilizes an internal power coupled with circular motion and redirection in its approach to overcome direct force. Throwing, striking, grappling, joint locks, choking, and mind control techniques are also very much a part of this art. Shizen-Ryu Ki techniques help in obtaining balance and power.



The main purpose of Shizen-Ryu is to promote harmony, develop and unify the spirit, mind and body into a single unit, and help promote awareness of oneself and ones surroundings.



Shizen-Ryu is a Menkyo or licensing system, not a Kyudan or ranking system. Belts worn by students of the Shizen-Ryu system do not in any way designate rank. The Menkyo License is achieved by knowledge of KATA, SELF-DEFENSE TECHNIQUES,COOPERATION, DISCIPLINE, and RESPECT FOR THE ART, just as in any other belt ranking system.



Shizen-Ryu Aiki-Jujutsu is a highly strategic means of offsetting the effectiveness of power by performing a skillful series of techniques, and maneuvers. A very important part of this art is the ability to not react mechanically to a problem. The word Shizen means "natural"...that is the ability to adapt oneself to a unique situation, regardless of another persons action.



Learning to be flexible allows us a tremendous amount of latitude. We should not allow ourselves to think that a particular technique or response will work the same way in all circumstances. I will be the first to tell you that any technique can be adapted to any situation, but rather then force a technique to fit a situation, let the response fit the situation!



What we sometimes tend to forget is that Shizen-Ryu is as much of a offensive art as a defensive art. If a person intends to harm you, it would be very foolish to wait for them to strike the first blow. If you are faced with a threat or an attitude of intent, and cannot walk away (which is my first choice) it is always better to act then react.



TO PROTECT YOURSELF IS NOT WRONG, BUT IT WOULD BE WRONG NOT TO!

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There is no secret, no short cut, and no easy path. If you want to learn, please, by all means come join us. We are slow... we are repetitious; we are traditional, and honest in our approach. Most of all, if you are honest in your desire to learn, we welcome you.