Shiho nage

 

The sword has influenced and formed the basis of many Japanese martial arts, for example, Kendo, Iaido, and the use of the Jo. However, the sword has also played a major part in formulating Aikido. It may not seem obvious, that Aikido with its circular movements and deep philosophical approach to life and the promotion of peace, love, and harmony, could be influenced by the sword in so profound a ways.

Many of the postures, body movements, and principles do have a direct relationship to the sword in one way or another. The most obvious of these movements is Shiho-nage - the four-directional cut technique. The movement of Shiho-nage clearly displays this relationship by its fundamental principles and the way, it is executed.

The classical "textbook" Shiho-nage only gives the student the basic technical requirements for a Shiho-nage take-down, making them aware that direction can be changed by controlling the arm. As the student progresses and his experience increases, he will be capable of projecting or "spilling" his partner, in a dynamic manner.

However, we have all experienced the pain and discomfort when we have felt our arm separated from the rest of our body when an over-zealous or inconsiderate pertinence has applied Shiho-Nage. Uke becomes passive and accepts the Shiho nage developing the ability to take a "dive". Problems begin when there has been a communication breakdown in movements and feelings. Students should be adventurous and learn to experience the movement of Shiho-nage and not just perform the technique of Shiho-nage.

The student is advised to regularly practice Shiho-giri, with and without a bokken. The practice of Shiho-giri with a bokken reminds us of the relationship of the sword but also helps to isolate and recognize certain principles of Shiho-Nage. It emphasizes the importance of the hips and the effect of correct breathing. It refines our Tai-sabaki so our balance and posture are maintained.

When practicing with a partner experiment with movement. Take into account the circumstances prevailing at the time and adjust your approach. Shiho-nage doesn't have to be restricted to a method of take-down but allows it to be integrated into other movements of Aikido rather than using it purely as a defensive technique against a particular "attack". Its variations are infinite and allow Uke to be moved with absolute control. Discover how subtle movements of the hips can create openings and generate energy for projections. It is worth remembering that knowledge of "hip techniques" or Koshi-waza will help the student to perform and execute the more advanced Shiho-Nages.

Aiki techniques that they are potentially excruciatingly painful and dangerous. This most certainly applies to Shiho-Nage. Due to the possible damage that can be done to the wrist, elbow or shoulder certain "rules" are laid down when teaching beginners, such as when taking down, the arm is taken straight back over the shoulder and down the center of the body so that the wrist and elbow bend in a natural direction as Uke falls with a back break-fall.

All too frequently the learning process slithers to a standstill at this point. However, there is still much to be learned, at some stage in an individual's training he must learn control, not only how to control Uke but also self-control. Uke, if he can perform uninhibited flowing Aiki will want to learn bigger break-falls. During this period, confidence can be shattered and the seeds, of "Uke syndrome" are planted.

It means that without using strength we can neutralize an attack, working in harmony, a Nage will immediately sense the point at which pain will be caused, and shift in energy direction when Uke "bottles" out of a break-fall and immediately reacts to these changes with disciplined self-control.

This becomes important as Uke begins learning to do the big "Shiho-nage" break-fall because it cannot be learned easily from the classic safe Shiho-nage take-down. To give Uke the space to roll his arm will put him in a position that makes him vulnerable but if Nage doesn't project and allows his partner to take his breakfall Uke comes to no harm but can learn the mechanics of the breakfall. As his ability increases Uke will not need to throw himself but will "go" with the technique. If Uke is subject to brutality or incompetence during the learning process his confidence will break down, and he will be stiff, tense, and prone to launching himself to avoid the pain anticipated. This is not conducive to free-flowing dynamic Aikido, it looks ungainly and jagged instead of elegant and smooth, and both parties will feel frustrated unless they are sadly unaware that things can be different.