Tenshintaido: Learning the Consciousness of the Universe Through the Body Book by Hiroyuki Aoki (Preowned)

Integrating the Essence of Traditional Martial Arts for a Modern Age

Over 60 years ago, a new martial art was born by integrating the essence of traditional martial arts to suit contemporary times. This book encapsulates its philosophy and techniques in one comprehensive volume.

Tenshin Taito is a body technique designed for modern people, connecting body, mind, and consciousness to revive our natural human essence. The techniques, once tools for combat, have evolved under the author's guidance to promote physical and mental health, enhance communication skills, and ultimately connect with the vast natural universe. The author shares his martial arts philosophy in detail, complete with photo explanations of key forms.

CONTENTS

Introduction: The Body Knows Everything

Part I: What is Tenshin Taito?

• Chapter 1: Understanding Tenshin Taito

  • Techniques for living in harmony / "Heaven, Earth, and Humanity as One"

• Chapter 2: Fundamental Concepts of Tenshin Taito

  • The meaning of "martial arts" in Tenshin Taito / Learning through forms / The concept of "efficacy" / Understanding "maai" (distance) / Lowering the center of gravity / Seeing far / The importance of relaxation / Flexible body and movements / Natural movement / Effortless breathing / Entering the "zone" / Purpose of "kumite" (sparring) / Purification of the soul / True freedom

Part II: The Philosophy of Tenshin Taito

• Chapter 3: What is "Tenshin"?

  • "Tenshin" as the source of all / The universe is balanced

• Chapter 4: Being and Living with the Way

  • What is "the Way"? / Training in "the Way" / Christian perspectives on training in "the Way" / Letting go of everything / Truth surrounds us

• Chapter 5: Learning from Zen Giants Who Walked the Way

  • Shuhari (protect, break, leave) / Wisdom from the ancients—Laozi, Zhuangzi, Bai Juyi / Learning from meditation philosophers

• Chapter 6: Unity of "Way" and "Person"

  • Expressing through form / Applying forms in daily life / Practical application in society—Mother Teresa / Learning from the Ten Ox-Herding Pictures

• Chapter 7: Embracing Modern Wisdom

  • Moving forward / The ten stages of Aoki-style pursuit / Understanding the ten stages deeply / Always be new, continuously advance!

Part III: Practical Techniques of Tenshin Taito

• Chapter 8: Basic Techniques of Tenshin Taito

  • Grasping the essence of martial arts easily / The Five Aspects of Tenshin / Glory / The Single Law of Tenshin / Meditation in Tenshin Taito / Ten-Rank Meditation Method / Kumite in Tenshin Taito / Wakame Exercise for Meditation Kumite / Hikari Exercise for Meditation Kumite

• Chapter 9: Various Practices in Tenshin Taito

  • Names and types of Tenshin Taito / Kenbu Tenshin Style / Two-Sword Tenshin Style (Women’s Specialty) / Tenshin Calligraphy / Tenshin Courses (Meditation Methods)

Conclusion: The Direction of Tenshin as a Martial Art