TO - the sword
From the ninpo combat methods of the Japan's famous ninja warriors, born of Mt. Togakure and cultivated in the mountains and marshes of south central Japan, comes the core of our physical protection techniques and strategies. To-Shin Do martial arts practice is a great way to reduce stress and increase strength, endurance, and flexibility, while fostering a sense of peace, security, and control in life.
SHIN - the focused spirit of intention
From the rigorous kuji intention-channeling training of the shugenja (mountain warrior priests) comes the essence of our program for the discovery and development of the key qualities that characterize a fully actualized human being. We can effect dynamics that lead to success and fulfillment in life.
DO - the path to mastery
From the esoteric mikkyo mind and spirit sciences comes the technique of cultivating our unlimited physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual potentials. We can learn skillful ways to transform the inner and outer challenges of life, and ultimately come to grips with the very question of how to experience directly the significance of life itself.
Ninjutsu- Origins of To-Shin Do
Ninjutsu, also known as ninpo, has its roots in the martial, political and cultural histories of ancient Japan. It was conceived during a time of intense political turmoil and total civil chaos, when day to day survival of one's family depended on personal skill and resourcefullness. A timeless method for succeeding against overwhelming odds, the ways of Japan's legendary ninja warriors blended devastating fighting skills, finely tuned powers of intuition and observations, and the practiced abilities to transform intention into reality.
The To-Shin Do techniques and methods taught at the Quest Center have been handed down through the ages by the following nine historical traditions:
- Togakure Ryu Ninpo
- Gyokko Ryu Koshijutsu
- Kuki Shinden Ryu Happo-Biken
- Koto Ryu Koppojutsu
- Gikan Ryu Koppojutsu
- Shinden Fudo Ryu Dakentaijutsu
- Gyokushin Ryu Ninpo
- Kumogakure Ryu Ninjutsu
- Takagi Yoshin Ryu Jutaijutsu
Today, these once secret martial, meditative and survival arts of the ninja shine as a beacon of light in a world all too often perceived as fogged in the dimness of mediocrity, confused motives and lack of significance.
Bringing the ancient warrior traditions into modern times, Stephen K. Hayes now refers to his practice as To-Shin Do. However, behind the martial techniques taught by Mr. Hayes and Mr. Poliquin is the depth and richness of the original Togakure tradition of Japan's legendary ninja.
While To-Shin Do encompasses virtually every type of self protection skill that can be imagined, our training extends beyond physical self defense skills to methods which foster emotional and spiritual well being. Indeed, it is a thorough system of personal preparation for facing the conflicts and confrontations that can arise in the course of daily living.
Unlike many other martial arts, which are often little more than sports competitions or rote memorization, To-Shin Do is a living personal art that forms one of the most effective and comprehensive methods of self protection, danger prevention and dynamic living available in the world today.
Historical Roots and Traditions of To-Shin Do
NIN
Nin, the symbolism behind To Shin Do The Japanese written character for nin (pronounced "neen"), of Japan's legendary ninja warriors and their martial art of ninjutsu, indicates endurance, perseverance, and the ability to overcome obstacles.
The top portion of the Japanese character for nin is pronounced "toh" and means "sword". This represents the martial arts technology we study to perfect. The bottom portion of the character is shin, pronounced "sheen", and means "heart". This represents the resolute spirit needed to prevail over negative forces attempting to drive us to failure.
We know what we need in our lives and we take positive action to bring it into being. Nin communicates the kind of inner strength that is required to keep our eyes on the grander goal. We are not diverted, even when tempted by those persons or events that would try to pull us from our noble quest of personal improvement.