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Discover the philosophy of our martial art style.
SMRJ – Seishin Mizu Ryu Jutsu.
Seishin Mizu Ryu Jiu Jitsu
A martial art is traditionally concerned with war, conflict and the possibility of death. However, through the principles of natural balance, such as Yin and Yang (In and Yo), it also teaches peace, harmony, non-conflict and life. These seemingly opposing ideas are intrinsically connected.
The Japanese term for martial art is Bu Jutsu, traditionally interpreted as “to stop the spear.” This reflects the idea that martial knowledge is not simply about fighting, but about having the skill and discipline to prevent conflict, protect others and avoid unnecessary violence.
Ju Jutsu (Jiu Jitsu) was one such martial art, developed by the warriors of feudal Japan as a system of defence against armed and unarmed opponents.
The tradition we practise today, Seishin Mizu Ryu Jiu Jitsu, preserves many of these principles while developing them for modern practice. At its heart is the understanding that martial arts are not simply about learning to fight, but about developing the knowledge, awareness and discipline to manage conflict and ultimately promote peace.
Water Mind School of Fighting Arts
Seishin Mizu Ryu is a holistic martial art whose core techniques can be traced back to the battlefields of feudal Japan.
The style is a form through which the significant underlying martial principles found in the ancient martial traditions of Tai Chi Chuan (Chinese origin) and Ju Jitsu (Japanese origin) are brought together, re-examined, re-evaluated and developed. These arts were found to be pivotal in the development of martial arts and are known collectively as the father and mother arts respectively.
Seishin Mizu Ryu Jiu Jitsu
The style developed by Dr Richard Catterick has an extensive unarmed syllabus with a proven track record as an effective form of self-defence. Traditional weapons are also an important part of the system, with students developing proficiency in staff and sword arts as they progress towards black belt. Ground fighting and pressure-point techniques are also taught.
The syllabus covers the use of and defence against a broad range of punching, kicking, throwing, locking, holding and choking techniques, both armed and unarmed. Senior students also develop strategies for dealing with multiple opponents and gain an understanding of different methods of attack and defence.
Training goes beyond physical technique, incorporating the study of psychology and physiology and their roles before, during and after conflict.
The result is a well-rounded martial art with a broad understanding of combat, self-defence and the principles that underpin them.
Seishin Mizu Ryu Jutsu
Seishin Mizu Ryu can be translated as “Water Mind School”, reflecting one of the central principles of the style: continuous flow.
Like water, the practitioner learns to remain adaptable, moving with rather than against force and using an aggressor’s strength and momentum to their disadvantage. This places the emphasis on timing, technique, balance and awareness rather than relying solely on size, strength, age or fitness.
The primary purpose of training is to develop the ability to protect yourself and those you care about. However, the benefits extend far beyond self-defence. Regular training can develop confidence, discipline, lasting friendships, respect for others and, perhaps most importantly, a deeper respect and understanding of ourselves.
Ultimately, Seishin Mizu Ryu is not only about looking outward at the challenges around us, but also looking inward and developing the person within.
