At SRKDNZ we practice Shorin Ryu karate as more recently lead by Hanshi Shoshin Nagamine (Judan 10th degree black belt). The book, The Essence of Okinawan Karate-Do authored by Shoshin Nagamine stands as a definitive guide to the karate student of this style.
From the back cover of the book:
“There is no first attack in karate... karate must be a defensive art from beginning to end.” - Shoshin Nagamine.
Shoshin Nagamine began his study of karate in 1924. By his death in late 1997, he had been ranked Judan (10th degree black belt), Hanshi (master instructor) by the All-Okinawa Karate-Do Association, and was recognised worldwide as a major force in bringing karate-do into the light of world respect and admiration. After a career that included service as vice-chairman of the Naha City Assembly and president of the Okinawa Police Station, Nagamine Sensei dedicated himself to teaching karate-do and Zen meditation, and to preserving the traditional arts and culture of the Ryukyus.
Nagamine Sensei states in his book:
“Karate is self-training in perfection, a means whereby a man may obtain that expertise in which there is not the thickness of a hair between a man and his deed. It is a training in efficiency. It is a training in self-reliance. Its rewards are here and now, for it enables a person to meet any situation with exactly the right expenditure of effort, neither too much or too little, and it gives him control of his otherwise wayward mind so that neither physical danger from without nor rampant passion from within can dislodge him” *page 14
“Movements in karate are divided into the basics, which make up the kata (forms), and the intermediate techniques, which are woven into the kata for use in kumite (sparring). It was in Okinawa that the well-formed karate originated. *page 19
Students interested in deepening their understanding of karate and its history are encouraged to read Nagamine Sensei’s book and further their own learning. We are proud to represent SRKDI in New Zealand and work with Sensei Jerry Figgiani (8th Dan). Members of SRKDNZ are part of an international community and welcome within our network to travel and experience the Okinawan Spirit and join in at other international Dojo.