josephsimms.com

08/19/2025

In our traditions, when a deshi receives a certificate in recognition of what they have done, and perhaps what they are capable of being, they are guided to observe it, celebrate the accomplishment, and then place it in their sock drawer.

04/13/2025

The podcast is live now.

The Way and The Power – Podcast Launch Announcement - Episode 1: Conflict & Struggle

The Way and The Power Podcast explores conflict, strategy, and performance through the lens of three martial traditions originating from Japan. This episode sets the stage: our mission, the host’s role, and key principles to guide your path. Then, we dive deep into the nature of conflict—the universal force shaping every life. Struggle is inevitable. The critical question we all face is this: how do we live balanced, whole, and fulfilling lives amid the turmoil of existence?

https://youtu.be/QWbF6GWQVZE

10/22/2024

Ittō Tenshin-ryū®

The 2024 Ittō Tenshin-ryū Taikai, a significant event within our tradition, concluded on Sunday evening. Additionally, we celebrated the founding of the Great Falls Budokan by Rajguru Sensei 50 years ago.

The theme of the taikai was "Setsunateki" (刹那的), a concept that beautifully encapsulates impermanence and the present moment. In keeping with the theme, there will be no after-action report.

The purpose of the Ittō Tenshin-ryū remains true to its inception: to enhance life through the empowerment of its deshi.

While some outside our tradition claim lineage to the Ittō Tenshin-ryū, this is impossible. The transmission of this tradition requires access to its "living example" and occurs in a moment.

If you would like to learn more about our traditions or dōjō that are licensed to share this tradition, visit: https://heiho.org

09/04/2024

08/28/2024

08/27/2024

Tomorrow (8/28/2024) at 11 a.m. ET we will launch the new introductory video for The Way and The Power Podcast!

This video introduces the podcast, where the information comes from, why information of this nature is treasured, its relevance today, the host, and provides some general information about the podcast.

To be notified of future releases sign up here: https://heiho.org/podcast

The video will be available on the Taseki YouTube Channel. Please take a moment to like and subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/

08/02/2024

Here is the new cover art for The Way & The Power podcast. The introduction will be released soon.

Future potential episode topics include:
- Conflict and Energy Transfer
- Defining Strategy
- How to meld with a sword (or any weapon)

If you have not already signed up for the mailing list on heiho.org, please sign up to be notified about podcast releases here:

https://heiho.org/podcast

01/04/2024

11/27/2023

The study of the sword and spirit is for more than just men. We welcome women looking to explore power and strategy viscerally through traditions passed down for generations.

If you are looking for something new to explore in 2024, visit us at: https://heiho.org

For a list of dōjō licensed to share our traditions visit:
https://heiho.org/licenseddojo

Stay informed about upcoming online classes, podcasts, and events. Sign up for our mailing list at:
https://heiho.org/mailing-list

09/28/2023

The River of Life Dōjō is pleased to host the 2023 Ittō Tenshin-ryū® Kenjutsu Taikai over the weekend of November 11th and 12th, 2023. This year's theme will focus on the Kihon Kumitachi and associated teachings.

Anyone interested in the Japanese way of the sword will draw great value from the event. While the cultural context in which these fighting traditions developed no longer exists, teachings to address conflict and strategy are as relevant today as they were at their inception. Principles for human performance and spiritual development are timeless.

The primary purpose of the Ittō Tenshin-ryū is to develop a powerful and orderly being.

Whether you are new to Japanese martial arts or are an old hand, know that the Ittō Tenshin-ryū welcomes all who possess the hunger to learn and the spirit to facilitate that desire.

Join us!

For event and registration information, visit:
https://heiho.org/taikaiitr-1