In this episode of Liomugai: The Way of Sword and Budo, we journey through nearly a thousand years of Japanese history to dismantle the popular myths and uncover the true, complex story of the samurai. We trace their rise from local military specialists in the Heian period through the brutal, chaotic warfare of the Sengoku era, to their unexpected transformation into sword-bearing administrators under the Pax Tokugawa.

Most importantly, we explore the profound inner shift that occurred when active combat ceased: how the practical mechanics of killing (kenjutsu) evolved into a path of rigorous self-cultivation (budo and shugyo). Guided by the serene focus of Zen Buddhism and the ethical alignment of Neo-Confucianism, the katana was redefined from a battlefield weapon to "the soul of the samurai"—a tool for cutting through one's own delusions.

What We Explore in This Episode:

• The Historical Evolution of the Samurai: Dismantling modern cinematic romanticism to understand their pragmatic origins as private mercenaries protecting land in the Heian period, their rise to absolute political dominance through military governments, and their institutional dissolution during the rapid modernization of the Meiji Restoration.
• The Transition from Kenjutsu to Budo: How peace under the Tokugawa shogunate forced warriors to find a new purpose for the sword, shifting their training from outward combat to inward self-refinement and moral discipline.
• The Spirit of the "Sword Saint": A look at the legendary Miyamoto Musashi, founder of the two-sword Niten Ichi-ryu style. We delve into his undefeated record in over sixty duels and how his final philosophical treatises, The Book of Five Rings and the Dokkodo, elevated strategic martial principles into an enduring philosophy of life.
• The Sword as a Moving Koan: The life of Tsuji Gettan Sukemochi, the samurai swordsman who became a Zen monk and founded Mugai-ryu. We discuss how Gettan integrated deep Rinzai Zen practice with physical action, achieving a state of "no-mind" (mushin) where the ultimate victory is victory over the ego.
• The Enduring Legacy: How the samurai's historical adaptation from battlefield fighters to peacetime leaders offers practical, powerful insights for navigating the stresses, complexities, and dualities of modern life.

Key Terms Explained:

• Budo (武道): The martial way; the transition of physical combat arts into paths of spiritual and ethical self-cultivation.
• Shugyo (修行): Intense, austere training of both body and mind to polish one's character.
• Mushin (無心): "No-mind" or a state of pure, unattached awareness free from dualistic thoughts of victory or defeat.
• Daisho (大小): The paired long (katana) and short (wakizashi) swords that served as the exclusive status symbol of the samurai during the peaceful Tokugawa era.

Listen and Subscribe:

If you are a practitioner of martial arts, a student of history, or someone searching for focus and presence in a distracted world, this episode is your invitation to step onto the path of the sword.

Subscribe to Liomugai: The Way of Sword and Budo on Apple Podcasts, leave a review, and join our community of practitioners.

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In this new episode of Liomugai: The Way of the Sword and Budo, we explore the concept of Metsuke (目付) in depth. Far beyond its literal translation of "fixing the eyes," this term encompasses both physical gaze and mental awareness in combat.

We examine the fundamental distinction between ordinary focal vision, known as Shiken, and a comprehensive gaze. Fixating on a detail instantly triggers mental rigidity (ittoku) and tightens the body, significantly slowing your reaction time. To counter this, sword schools (Iaido, Kenjutsu) teach Enzan no Metsuke (遠山の目付), the art of "gazing at distant mountains": taking in the opponent as a whole without getting trapped by an isolated element. As Miyamoto Musashi summarized in The Book of Five Rings (Gorin no Sho), global perception (Kan) must be strong, while analytical observation (Ken) must be weak.

How does this approach evolve when the distance closes? We travel from the open range of the sword to close-quarters combat (chika-ma) in traditional Okinawan karate (Goju-Ryu, Uechi-Ryu). At this range, the gaze anchors on the sternum or the base of the neck before yielding to tactile perception through sticky hands (Kakie).

Finally, we address the debate surrounding the ideal visual anchor point. Should you look at a neutral point just above the bridge of the nose to engage peripheral vision, or lock eyes with your opponent to read their deepest intentions?

Whether you practice solo swordsmanship (Iaido)—where you must generate the full intensity of combat through internal visualization alone—or strive to maintain an immovable mind (Fudoshin) amid daily stress, Metsuke is a vital key to preserving mental clarity and physical fluidity.

In this episode:

• The etymology and deeper meaning of Metsuke: Far more than a simple gaze, a genuine state of mental presence.
• The Shiken trap: Why fixating on the weapon or your opponent's movement forces you into a purely reactive state.
• Enzan no Metsuke with the sword: Taking in the opponent's entire silhouette like a mountain on the horizon.
• Close-quarters combat in Okinawa: From anchoring the gaze on the sternum to tactile sensing in Kakie.
• The great gaze debate: Looking above the bridge of the nose versus locking eyes directly.
• Fudoshin and solo practice (Iaido): How internal intensity and focused vision transform practice.
• Daily life application: Using broad vision to regulate heart rate and defuse stress or physical and verbal confrontations.

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Born Sanada Nobushige in 1567, he learned the art of strategy under his father, the master tactician Sanada Masayuki. Facing the overwhelming forces of Tokugawa Ieyasu at the Siege of Osaka, Nobushige constructed the impregnable Sanada-maru fortification, proving how calm composure, tactical positioning, and resourcefulness can overcome immense odds.

In this episode, we cover:

• From Nobushige to Yukimura: His early life in the warring states period and how the name "Yukimura" emerged in post-war literature.
• The Masterpiece of the Sanada-maru: How a defensive barbican repelled repeated assaults during the Siege of Osaka.
• The Red Armor & the Rokumonsen: The symbolism behind his crimson gear and six-coin crest representing readiness for ultimate sacrifice.
• Myth vs. Reality – The Sanada Ten Braves: The fictional legend of his ten ninja companions versus the historical intelligence network used by the Sanada clan.
• Lessons for Budo Practitioners: Core values of loyalty, composure under pressure, and remaining steadfast in your purpose.

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How does a warrior achieve enlightenment? We retrace his spiritual retreat at the Kyūko-ji Zen temple in the Azabu district of Edo, where he studied diligently for nearly 19 years under the guidance of masters Sekitan and Kanshu. We recount the pivotal moment when, at the age of 45, he attained satori (enlightenment) and received a poem from his master containing the verse "Ippo jitsu mugai" (There is nothing outside of the One Truth). This revelation would give both its name and its core philosophy to his martial art.

This episode is also a deep dive into the history and foundations of Zen Buddhism. We decode its philosophy of the present moment and seated meditation (zazen), with a special focus on the rigorous Rinzai branch. Introduced to Japan by the monk Eisai at the end of the 12th century (1191), this school became prominent among the samurai class by balancing physical work, meditation, and the study of kōans (paradoxes aimed at breaking intellectual logic and ego).

Prepare to discover how the sword and Zen merge through the concept of Ken Zen Ichi Nyo (The Sword and Zen are One), reminding us that true victory is not found in defeating an opponent, but in cutting down one's own delusions, fears, and ego.

In this episode:

• The life of Tsuji Gettan: From a young samurai to an awakened Zen philosopher.
• The sanctuary of Kyūko-ji: The 19 years of asceticism that transformed his worldview.
• The secrets of Mugai-ryū: The birth of a school where movement arises from emptiness, directness, and the absence of ego.
• Understanding Zen and the Rinzai school: History, the practice of zazen, and the power of kōans.

🎧 Subscribe to explore the Way of the Sword with us and let yourself be inspired by the serenity of the Zen mind.

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This episode traces the roots of Zen Buddhism from its origins in India to its transmission to China, and its eventual introduction to Japan by Buddhist monks like Eisai in the 12th century. We explore how the consumption of powdered green tea (matcha) evolved from a medicinal drink used by monks to stay awake during long periods of meditation into a highly codified cultural and spiritual practice.

We delve into the revolutionary impact of the 16th-century tea master Sen no Rikyū, who stripped away the luxurious and symmetrical Chinese aesthetics favored by the aristocracy to establish the concept of wabi-sabi. This philosophy celebrates humble simplicity, naturalness, and the profound beauty of imperfection. Listeners will learn about the four foundational principles of the tea ceremony established by Rikyū: Wa (harmony with nature and people), Kei (respect for all humans and objects), Sei (physical and spiritual purity), and Jaku (inner tranquility).

Finally, we uncover the deep spiritual connection between Zen and tea, perfectly summarized in the Japanese proverb "Cha zen ichi mi" (Zen and tea have the same taste). The episode reveals how the simple, everyday acts of boiling water, whisking tea, and drinking it can become a moving meditation and a profound spiritual path. You will discover how the rustic tearoom (chashitsu) served as a sanctuary of absolute equality. Historically, even the highest-ranking samurai were required to leave their katana (swords) outside on a rack and bow down to enter through a small, low door (nigiriguchi), leaving their social rank and ego behind to fully live in the harmony of the present momen

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We also break down his strategic and philosophical masterpiece, The Book of Five Rings. Written during his final years in the isolation of the Reigandō cave, the text offers timeless wisdom divided into five elemental chapters: Earth (foundation), Water (adaptability), Fire (combat intensity), Wind (critique of rigid styles), and Void (absolute freedom and intuition). Tune in to discover how Musashi's way of the warrior can help you find balance and efficiency in modern life!

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Discover how this simple sandal-bearer to the formidable warlord Oda Nobunaga used his strategic genius to make himself indispensable. After Nobunaga's assassination in 1582, Hideyoshi reacted at lightning speed to avenge his master at the Battle of Yamazaki and take his succession. We dive into his ruthless military campaigns, such as the terrible siege of Negoro-ji temple in 1585 where he ordered the complex to be burned down to annihilate the rebel warrior monks, or the siege of Ōta Castle for which he used ingenious flood tactics. Driven by boundless ambition, he even attempted to conquer Ming China by launching two vast armies through Korea in 1592 and 1597.

But Hideyoshi's legacy goes far beyond his conquests; he is the great architect of pre-modern Japanese society. We decode his major reforms, notably the famous "sword hunt" in 1588, which confiscated weapons from peasants to reserve this privilege only for samurai and prevent revolts. He also established an extremely rigid social class system in 1591 strictly separating warriors, farmers, artisans, and merchants (the shi-nō-kō-shō system). Ironically, this man who benefited so much from social mobility completely locked down society once he reached the top.

Finally, we highlight a fascinating detail about his enduring legacy: his famous kamon (family crest) is still used today as the official emblem of the Government of Japan and appears on the seal of the Prime Minister!

🎧 Listen to this episode to discover how, according to the famous proverb, Hideyoshi managed to "bake the cake" of Japanese unification.

If you enjoyed this episode, don't hesitate to subscribe to Liomgai la voie du sabre et du budo, leave us 5 stars and a review on Apple Podcasts! Continue your path and enjoy the show!

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In this episode of liomugai : the way of sword and budo, we dive deep into this profound state of relaxed alertness and sustained awareness that bridges the physical discipline of the dojo with the challenges of everyday life.

In this episode, we explore:

• The Zen Heart of Zanshin: How the concept of non-attachment (chāku) and Master Takuan Sōhō's teachings in The Unfettered Mind help us avoid a "frozen mind". We unpack the singular unrepeatability of Ichigo Ichie and the concept of Ma—the powerful negative space and stillness that frames all action.
• The Budo Dimension: How Zanshin is physically, mentally, and spiritually trained in arts like Mugai-ryū Iaido, Battōdō, Kendo, Kyudo, Karate, and Aikido. We break down the three critical dimensions of practice: physical readiness, mental engagement, and spiritual stillness.
• Surviving the "Celebration Gap": How Zanshin eliminates the dangerous drop in focus right after a victory or completed action. We examine the mechanics of Metsuke (the soft, panoramic gaze), Shisei (effortless physical alignment), and Mushin (no-mind).
• Zanshin in Daily Life: How to bring the discipline of the sword into everyday micro-moments of mastery. Discover how "closing the loop" (like shutting a door softly or setting down a coffee cup silently), maintaining conversational presence, and structuring mindful workplace transitions can turn a chaotic rush into a seamless continuum of calm competence.
• Practical Cultivation: Simple daily exercises—including mindful breathing, slow-motion kata practice, and seated meditation (zazen)—to begin developing your own lingering mind today.

Whether you hold a katana or are navigating the stress of a busy workday, Zanshin reminds us to show up fully, with awareness, intention, and grace.

What does Zanshin mean to you? Join the conversation and share your thoughts on cultivating awareness!

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Today, we dive deep into the little-known and captivating history of one of the most formidable and traditional styles of karate: Uechi-Ryu.

In this episode, we trace an exceptional lineage of transmission connecting 19th-century Okinawa to today's Europe. Discover how founder Kanbun Uechi, fleeing Japanese military conscription in 1897, traveled clandestinely to China to study martial arts under Chinese master Zhou Zihe (known as Shu Shiwa in Okinawa) for 13 years. There, he learned the Pangainoon style—meaning "half-hard, half-soft"—a formidable open-hand combat method.

We then explore the crucial role of his son, Kanei Uechi, who modernized the style by adding new katas and conditioning exercises (Hojo Undo and Junbi Undo), opening the practice to the general public. The history of this transmission accelerates with Ryuko Tomoyose, a foundational pillar who helped Kanei Uechi build the famous Futenma dojo.

It was this very same Ryuko Tomoyose who passed his knowledge on to George Mattson, a young American serviceman who would become the very first Westerner to earn a black belt in Uechi-Ryu. A true pioneer, George Mattson is considered the "father of Uechi-Ryu" in America and greatly contributed to the global spread of the style through his many books, including The Way of Karate published in 1958.

Finally, we bridge the gap to our contemporary era by talking about Lionel Reynaud. A direct student of George Mattson since 2017, Lionel is dedicated to preserving "The Old Way," which draws its roots directly from the original teachings of Ryuko Tomoyose. Named Jun-Shihan in 2019 and then 4th Dan in 2025 within the Mattson Academy, he is now one of the leading ambassadors of this authentic martial art in France and Europe.

On the agenda for this episode:

• The Chinese origins of the style and the exile of Kanbun Uechi.
• The structuring and modern evolution of Uechi-Ryu by Kanei Uechi.
• The bridge between Okinawa and the West forged by Ryuko Tomoyose and George E. Mattson.
• The transmission and preservation of authentic tradition in France with Sensei Lionel Reynaud.

🎧 Subscribe to "Liomugai" on Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode! If you enjoyed this dive into martial tradition, please leave us a 5-star review and a comment to support the podcast.

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Forget the romantic legend of the oppressed peasant defending himself barehanded or with farm tools. In this episode, we set the historical record straight: Okinawa's original martial arts were actually highly sophisticated combat systems, kept secret and reserved for the nobility (shizoku), diplomats, and royal palace guards.

Initially confined to a small area around the villages of Shuri, Naha, and Tomari, this heritage gave birth to the three major styles of traditional Okinawan karate. On the agenda for this episode, we break down:

🗡️ Shōrin-Ryū: Heir to the prestigious Shuri-Te, this style was deeply influenced by Japanese swordsmanship (the Satsuma clan's Jigen-Ryu school). Discover a sharp karate with natural stances, built on evasion speed and the formidable principle of "one strike, one life."

🌬️ Gōjū-Ryū: Stemming from Naha-Te and Chinese boxing styles from Fujian Province, this style—founded by Kanryo Higaonna and named by Chōjun Miyagi—blends hardness (Go) and softness (Ju). Dive into a close-quarters combat art famous for its rock-solid, rooted stances and deep, audible abdominal breathing designed to release internal energy.

🐅 Uechi-Ryū: Pure animal instinct. Brought back from China by Kambun Uechi under the name Pangai-noon (half-hard, half-soft), this style is a true animal kung fu style inspired by the tiger, the crane, and the dragon. We explore its fearsome extreme body conditioning program (kote kitae) and its unconventional strikes using the tips of the toes or a single knuckle.

From its Chinese roots to the fists of Okinawa's noble warriors, embark on a fascinating journey to the origins of "the way of the empty hand."

🎧 Happy listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to Liomugai, la voie du sabre et du budo, and leave us a 5-star review along with a comment on Apple Podcasts. Your support helps the show grow tremendously!

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Far more than a simple piece of clothing, the hakama is both a masterpiece of martial design and a powerful symbol of Japanese culture.

In this episode, we explore:

• The martial and technical secrets of the hakama in Iaido: Discover why the hakama is essential for drawing the sword. Learn how its waist cords (himo) secure the scabbard (saya), how the rigid back plate (koshiita) promotes proper spinal alignment and posture, and how its flowing design once concealed a warrior's footwork, making it harder for an opponent to anticipate movement.
• Unexpected imperial origins: Think the hakama began with the samurai? Think again! Its story starts in the imperial courts of China during the Sui and Tang dynasties before being adopted by the Japanese aristocracy of the Heian period, eventually becoming the signature garment of the samurai.
• The code of honor woven into every fold: We uncover the spiritual meaning behind the hakama's seven distinctive pleats, traditionally said to represent the seven fundamental virtues of Bushidō, from benevolence (Jin) to loyalty (Chū).
• A symbol of women's emancipation: Discover the remarkable story of the late nineteenth century, when pioneering educators such as Utako Shimoda transformed the hakama into a symbol of the modern, educated, and independent Japanese woman—a legacy that lives on today during university graduation ceremonies throughout Japan.

Whether you're passionate about martial arts, fascinated by Japanese history, or simply curious about the evolution of traditional clothing, this episode reveals the many stories hidden within one of Japan's most iconic garments.

👉 Listen now, and don't forget to subscribe for more fascinating journeys into Japanese history, culture, and the martial arts!

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Today, we dive into the heart of the tumultuous Sengoku period (the age of warring states) to trace the destiny of the most famous and feared warlord in Japanese history: Oda Nobunaga.

How did an eccentric young man, once mocked and nicknamed the "Fool of Owari" for his rebellious behavior and extravagant outfits, become the man who laid the foundations of modern Japan?

In this episode, we explore Nobunaga's meteoric rise. It all begins in 1560 with the Battle of Okehazama, an unexpected victory where, with only 2,000 to 3,000 men, he took advantage of a violent thunderstorm to annihilate Imagawa Yoshimoto's massive army of 25,000 soldiers, shocking the entire country.

Discover how Nobunaga not only conquered territories but fundamentally transformed his era by proving to be a pragmatic visionary:

• The Military Revolution: He was the first to massively integrate firearms (Portuguese-introduced matchlocks) into his strategy, crushing the Takeda clan's formidable cavalry during the famous Battle of Nagashino in 1575.
• Economic Modernization: Under his motto Tenka Fubu ("Rule the realm by force"), he liberalized the economy with the Rakuichi Rakuza policy (free markets and open guilds), abolishing tolls and monopolies to stimulate trade.
• Opening to the West: In order to secure a supply of gunpowder and counter the political and military influence of militant Buddhist sects, he protected Jesuit missionaries and favored the expansion of Christianity.

But every ascent has an end. Just as he was about to achieve his dream of reunifying Japan, Nobunaga met a brutal demise in 1582. We will look back in detail at the mystery of the Honnō-ji Incident, where he was betrayed and forced to commit seppuku by his own loyal general, Akechi Mitsuhide.

In this episode:

• The rebellious youth and the rise of the Oda clan.
• Okehazama and Nagashino: the battles that changed the face of Japan.
• Economic pragmatism, political tea ceremonies, and the construction of the monumental Azuchi Castle.
• Brutality (the destruction of Mount Hiei) and the mystery of his fall at Honnō-ji temple.

If Nobunaga "pounded the national rice cake," his legacy is what allowed the end of feudal chaos. Get ready for an epic dive into samurai history!

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On the program for this episode:

• The sword on the battlefield: A look back at medieval Japan during the Sengoku period, where Kenjutsu and Iaijutsu were pragmatic, brutal tools aimed solely at defeating the enemy.
• The Tokugawa peace and Katsujinken: Discover how the unification of Japan triggered an identity crisis among samurai, transforming Satsujinken (the sword that kills) into Katsujinken (the sword that gives life)—a spiritual tool to cut through one's own ego. The end of the samurai era during the Meiji period would later mark the birth of modern Kendo and Iaido.
• The mutation of Karate: We illustrate this transformation through the history of Okinawan Karate-Jutsu. Originally designed to survive street attacks, this art was exported to Japan by masters like Gichin Funakoshi in the 1920s. In 1935, the term officially became Karate-Do, integrating the Zen Buddhist concept of "Emptiness" to forge character rather than simply destroy an opponent.
• The perfect compromise, Mugai-Ryu's Iai Hyōdō: Finally, we analyze why the Mugai-Ryu school refuses to dissolve into a purely philosophical practice. Instead of using the three classic kanji for Iaido (居合道), the school uses Iai Hyōdō (居合兵道). We decode the extra kanji, Hei (兵), which represents the soldier and the weapon, serving as a reminder that the practice remains a formidable martial system. To preserve this original spirit and concretely validate technical efficiency, the school requires the Tameshigiri test (cutting tatami mats with an authentic Shinken sword) to obtain the first Dan.

Without the rigor of martial technique, the Path is empty; but without the Path, technique is blind. Join us to understand how these two aspects balance each other out!

🎧 Do you practice for the Jutsu or for the Do? Let us know in the comments, and don't forget to subscribe to the Liomugai podcast on your favorite platform!

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In this episode, we trace Ieyasu's extraordinary journey from his birth in 1543 at Okazaki Castle and his grueling childhood as a hostage, to his ultimate rise as the first shogun of the Tokugawa Shogunate in 1603. We explore how his masterful blend of strategic patience and ruthless political engineering ended the chaotic "Warring States" period and ushered in a "Great Peace" that lasted for over 250 years. You will discover how his brilliant policies—such as the Bakuhan system and the Sankin-kōtai (alternate attendance) system—laid the DNA of modern Japanese civilization and transformed Edo from a swampy fishing village into the world's largest metropolis, Tokyo.

We also break down the defining military clash of his career: The Battle of Sekigahara. Fought on October 21, 1600, this monumental battle saw Ieyasu's Eastern Army face off against Ishida Mitsunari's Western Army. We discuss how Ieyasu secured this overwhelming victory not just through combat, but through secret negotiations and the pivotal, mid-battle defections of clans like the Kobayakawa and the Mōri.

Finally, we take you on a journey to the hidden jewel of Shizuoka: the Kunozan Toshogu shrine. As Ieyasu's original resting place, this breathtaking site sits atop a rugged cliffside overlooking Suruga Bay. We explore the symbolism behind its grueling 1,159-step stone staircase, admire the vibrant Gongen-zukuri architecture, and visit the solemn bronze Okumiya stupa where the great unifier was interred immediately after his death in 1616.

Tune in to retrace the footsteps of the man who weaponized patience to forge the Japan we know today!

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In this episode, we set out to discover two neighboring sites deeply united by history, but also by a powerful spiritual charge: the city of Hiroshima and the sacred island of Miyajima. More than just a travelogue, we explore these places through the martial lens and the philosophy of Budo.

In Hiroshima, we dive into the heart of human resilience in the face of the 1945 destruction. From the Atomic Bomb Dome to Hiroshima Castle and its surviving trees (the eucalyptus and the willow, true embodiments of the unshakeable samurai spirit), the city offers us a masterful lesson on the concept of Katsujinken — the "life-giving sword." This foundational principle reminds us that the ultimate mastery of martial arts does not aim for conflict, but for the preservation of peace.

We then cross the bay to reach Miyajima ("the shrine island"). There, we discover the history of its famous floating torii gate, its Shinto shrine shaped by the warrior Taira no Kiyomori, as well as the peaks of Mount Misen, a Buddhist cradle founded by the monk Kukai (Kōbō Daishi) in 806. You will learn how Miyajima's thousand-year-old sacred fire continues to burn today in the heart of Hiroshima, fueling the Flame of Peace.

At the end of the episode: For travelers short on time, I share my express two-day itinerary to visit these two locations optimally—a journey built on the essential rhythm of martial arts: Jo-Ha-Kyū (the beginning, the break, and the final acceleration).

👉 To learn more: Find the articles related to this episode, historical details on Hiroshima Castle, and deepen your knowledge of katas and Battodo on the official website: https://liomugai.com. Feel free to leave a comment to share your thoughts!

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Drawing from the teachings found on liomugai.com, this episode dives into the depths of the Zen philosophy that animates Mugai-ryū. We explore the foundational concept of Ken Zen Ichi Nyo (剣禅一如), which teaches us that the sword and Zen are one. Physical mastery thus becomes a vehicle for spiritual realization and the dissolution of the ego.

In this episode, we will cover in detail:

• Muga (無我) and Mu (無): Discover why the "Great Void" is not an absence, but an unlimited potential, much like the silence that makes music possible. We will look at how letting go of the "Self" and the ego allows for a pure cut, free of hesitation.
• Mushin (無心): The state of "No-Mind." Learn how to train your mind to act like a mirror, reflecting the opponent's movements — or everyday challenges — without judgment or computational delay.
• Fudōshin (不動心): The "Immovable Mind." Inspired by the metaphor of a perfectly calm pond and the unshakeable figure of the Buddhist deity Fudō Myō-ō, discover how to maintain total emotional stability, even in the heart of chaos or when facing the four diseases of the mind (fear, confusion, hesitation, and surprise).

Whether you are a practitioner of Battodo and Kenjutsu looking to perfect your art, or simply searching for ancient principles to manage stress and find calm in modern life, this journey to the heart of Zen is for you.

To dive deeper into these concepts and discover the history of the founder Tsuji Gettan Sukemochi, visit liomugai.com. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and leave us a review!

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Discover the secrets of Mugai-ryū, a traditional school founded in 1693 by Tsuji Gettan Sukemochi, an outstanding swordsman who became a Zen monk. We decode how this pure martial practice, free of any superfluous movement, became a genuine path toward spiritual awakening (Satori).

On the agenda for this episode:

• The history of Mugai-ryū: How a Zen poem meaning "There is nothing outside the Unique Truth" gave its name to this legendary Edo-period school.
• The Sword and Zen are One (Ken Zen Ichi Nyo): Understanding how each codified movement (Kata) becomes a moving meditation (Ritsuzen) to achieve Mushin—that state of an empty mind, liberated from the ego, illusions, and fear.
• The realism of combat (Iai Hyōdō): Why the school uses this specific term with the kanji "Hyō" (the soldier/strategy) to recall its visceral anchoring in martial reality, refusing to let Iaido become just a "vague, empty dance." We will also talk about the importance of Kenjutsu and actual target cutting (Tameshigiri).
• An answer to modern stress: How the demands of this practice and grounding yourself in the split second where the blade leaves the scabbard ("the eternal present") offer a powerful way to navigate the stress and turmoil of our contemporary society.

The modern art of the sword is not meant to destroy the other, but to build oneself and find inner clarity. Plug in your headphones and let yourself be transported into this exploration where physical rigor meets peace of mind!

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We trace how the legendary artist Hokusai revolutionized woodblock prints using vibrant Prussian Blue to capture Fuji as a silent witness to humanity.

Moving down the mountain, we explore the sacred Fujisan Hongū Sengen Taisha shrine, built by the Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu to appease the earth's fiery wrath, and the icy, volcanic waters of Shiraito Falls, where pilgrims still practice misogi (cold-water purification).

Finally, we wander through Arigatayama, the "Mountain of Gratitude," to stand among a silent crowd of 1,800 red-bibbed Jizo statues guarding the souls of travelers and children.

This episode offers a rare glimpse into the spiritual geography of Japan, where nature, history, and the martial mindset dissolve into one.

Based on the insights of Lionel Reynaud.

Discover more articles and videos on the Way of the Sword at liomugai.com or follow @liomugai on Instagram and YouTube.

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I am your host, Lionel Reynaud. After a twenty-year career as a high-level cycling coach on the World Tour and at the Olympic and Paralympic Games (Beijing 2008, London 2012, Rio 2016), my passion for martial arts caught up with me.

While I now teach Uechi-Ryu Karate around the world, I am speaking to you here simply as a passionate student.

The name Liomugai (莉雄無外) is the fusion of my first name and the term Mugai, which means "without borders." It reflects my journey across France, the United States, the United Kingdom, Spain, and Japan, and my desire to connect martial arts practitioners of all backgrounds.

In this introductory episode, we lay the foundations of our journey:

• What is Mugai-ryū? Discover this traditional school of swordsmanship (Koryu) founded in 1693 during the Edo period by the samurai Tsuji Gettan Sukemochi. An art where formidable efficiency meets spiritual asceticism.
• The Sword and Zen: We explore the concept of Ken Zen Ichi Nyo (The Sword and Zen are One), born from the founder's spiritual awakening. Zen is not just about silent sitting; it is expressed in the precision of a cut in Battodo or the fluidity of an Iaido kata.
• The podcast's objective: Beyond technique, this audio journal is an invitation to discover Japanese history and culture, as well as the founding principles of Budo.

Whether you are a martial arts practitioner, passionate about Japan, or simply curious to discover a discipline where technical rigor meets mental peace, this podcast is for you.

⚠️ Safety Warning: The content of this podcast is shared for informational purposes. Sword techniques are demanding and potentially dangerous. Never attempt to replicate them without the supervision of a qualified instructor in a recognized Dojo.

🔗 Episode Links and Resources:

• Official Website: liomugai.com
• Follow my training in Japan on Instagram: @liomugai
• Watch my videos on YouTube: @liomugai

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