Roots and branches

I think for the issues in life that I face, I honestly believe any form of karate would have sufficed to help me.   From what I have read, many clubs of all styles from Sports through to Traditional, would have accommodated me, and for that I have to offer a massive vote of respect to the whole Karate family, and to the many other forms of MA that would also have welcomed me 😊😊😊   

  That said, I have to say that as a Nerd at heart, and only realistically ever going to use Karate as self defence, not in competetive fighting, I was lucky to end up first time in a Traditional dojo.  The Shorin Ryu style suits me just fine and also indulges the historical Nerd in me.

A practitioner of Wado Ryu asked in one forum recently why the basic Kata of many styles were similar and history Nerd went Shorin Ryu to Shotokan to Wado Ryu.  I think a few Karateka today are blissfully unaware of the tradition on which their enjoyment or competition is based,  no problems but that's not my style 😊😊😊 

  There are lots of detailed material available nowadays, with the likes of Patrick McCarthy and Andreas Quast delving into the history of Karate. Having bring lucky enough to have read some of their articles, it persuaded me to get hold of the book written by Sensei Koei Nohara, about the history to Tiy.  Haven't finished it yet, but have got to the point where it's compelling reading.

The direct relationship he suggests between Tiy and Kobudo Kata is especially interesting 😊😊😊  Then I lost my book on a train, so have to buy another copy, never mind, it is worthwhile.  Then along comes another of those I respect, Jesse Enkamp, saying he is going to go to China to look into the roots of Karate, just can't wait  😊😊😊