Jishudo – the Way of Self Mastery

Led by Sensei Daniel Duguay (Yoshinkan Karate, Ki Aikido)

Martial arts is commonly associated with physical benefits such as increased flexibility, strength, and balance. However, it is now being recognized for its non-physical advantages, such as improved confidence, mental resilience, and emotional regulation. Jishudo, which means "The Way of Self Mastery," is a martial art that focuses on both the body and the mind. Developed through almost two decades of practical experience in martial arts,  informed by research on the non-physical benefits, and shaped by lived experiences with  mental health programs, Jishudo is rooted in core principles of martial arts that integrate the body and mind.

Unlike other somatic practices, Jishudo is a martial path that goes beyond simply cultivating physical balance. It is a true self-defence focal practice for both the body and the mind. Jishudo combines different types of practice, including martial meditation (martial arts without movement), solo pattern work called kata, and safe partner work without self-defence actions like falling or throwing. These practices are done in a supportive and cooperative group-based environment.

During Jishudo classes, students gain theoretical understanding of the body-mind principles core to martial arts, which is then reinforced through experiential learning and purposeful exercises. To further embody these principles, daily exercises are provided for various settings such as home, work, or public places. Along with physical benefits, Jishudo offers a unique martial-arts-based focal practice to improving mental and emotional well-being.

Jishudo practice enhances one's understanding of body-mind balance and what disrupts it. It also cultivates and strengthens one’s ability to maintain, retain, and regain this balance. Through deep embodiment of body-mind principles, Jishudo improves the foundation for being more present, mindful, and engaged in all aspects of daily life.

Introductory Jishudo Session

The introductory session is a 3-hour in-person class that provides an overview of the core body-mind principles, Jishudo’s nested spheres of practice, and sample experiential learning exercises. It serves as a helpful introduction for those interested in the 8-week Jishudo program, as well as a valuable supplement for individuals practicing mindfulness, somatic practices, or martial arts at any stage of their journey.

Full Jishudo Program

The Jishudo program is a 8-week program that takes place over 24 hours (3 hours per week). It starts with an introductory session, followed by 6 sessions that focus on different body-mind principles. The program ends with a session that helps integrate and harmonize these principles and develop a personal practice. Each session includes various exercises for hands-on learning, along with recommendations for daily practice at home.

The full Jishudo program is suitable for anyone who wants to achieve a balanced mind and body. It is also beneficial for those who already practice mindfulness or somatic techniques and want to enhance their skills. Additionally, martial artists can benefit from this program as it complements their martial arts practice outside of training sessions.

For more information about Jishudo, please visit https://www.trueselfvictory.org.

YOU DO NOT NEED MARTIAL ARTS EXPERIENCE TO JOIN THIS PROGRAM.

Cancellation Policy: A 100% refund will be issued for cancellation requests received up to one week before the start of class.

A refund (minus a fee plus HST) will be issued for cancellation requests received up to 3 days before the start of class.

A refund (minus a fee plus HST) will be issued for cancellation requests received after the first class. No refunds will be issued after that time.

Upcoming Sessions

Intro to Jishudo For Teens (12+) April 20th, 2024

  • Saturday April 20th, 2024 9:00AM-12:00PM

  • $50 + HST

Intro to Jishudo For Adults (TBD)

  • Dates TBA

  • $150 + HST

8 Week Jishudo For All Program September 2024

  • Tuesdays starting September 3rd 2024, 6:00PM-9:00PM

    September 3rd 2024

    September 10th, 2024

    September 17th, 2024

    September 24th, 2024

    October 1st, 2024

    October 8th, 2024

    October 15th, 2024

    October 22nd, 2024

  • $600 + HST