Greetings all, I am very pleased to connect with a group of people devoted to learning the principles of Nami ryu Kenjutsu as created by sensei James Williams. I’m coming to this practice from a background in Zen Buddhism and long distance shooting. There are not many endeavours that combine the development of mind, spirit and body with martial applications and I was very pleased and excited to come across videos of Williams sensei as he discussed the idea of elimination of movement (akin to Buddhist ideas of emptiness) and flow in the moment. If I understand correctly, the meaning of Nami Ryu is something like “engaging the flow of the moment with full awareness” which is close to the activity of zazen (mindfulness sitting practice in Zen). Although now retired and dealing with some physical limitations due to rather severe spine injuries, I am prepared to learn everything I can about Nami ryu Kenjutsu. I live in the country (near Ottawa/Montreal) and have been looking for online training opportunities but would like periodic meetings in person.
, Wayne