Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Swords - Introduction to Japanese Swords
The japanese sword stands out as a premier weapon of power and legendary work of art in both appearance and manufacture; made by pattern wielding or folding. The japanese swords have become known worldwide as a must-have for any weapon or sword aficionado. In the category of japanese swords there are many types. The most popular and well-known sword is the katana, which is the successor of the parent japanese sword the Uchigatana; sometimes referred to erroneously as the Samurai Sword. And although the katana was the primary weapon of the Samurai, it had its own name and reference. The second japanese sword that was an indispensable weapon was the wakizashi. Always worn together to form what is referred to as a daisho, the wakizashi was that weapon that never left a Samurais side. Upon entering a domicile the katana would be removed in a systematic method to alleviate suspicion, but the wakizashi remained with the owner.
Other lesser known japanese swords are similar to the wakizashi and katana, but are distinguished by the curvature and or length of the blade. Some of these japanese swords by name are: odachi a longer sword that is defined as one that is at least 3 shaku in length. Another japanese sword that is unique is the tanto, or more commonly referred to in western culture as a dagger. Typically the shortest of the japanese swords, and double edged, it was a wonderful tool for its purpose and is a beautiful depiction of japanese sword making prowess.
Overall the japanese sword is definitely a sword to impress. The elegant curve, famous in legend and made more so as depicted in movies, is a reminder of a wonderful work of art. These unique weapons standout throughout the world and herald the japanese sword maker as unique among artisans of their craft, and have ensured the legendary status of the japanese swords.
Yoga And Pilate MatZen And The Art Of Making A Long Putt
I'm sure you must have seen at least one Samurai movie in your lifetime. You know the scene, with the warrior standing erect and stiff, while tightly holding a sheathed sword in his left hand and the villagers scattering for their lives. The camera zooms in on his face, his eyes move slowly from left to right and beads of sweat trickle down his forehead. time seems to stop, and after what appears to be a lifetime, he slowly unsheathes the traditional weapon and assumes a fighting stance. Focused and unstoppable he then proceeds to wipe out the villains and save the poor villagers from the bad guys.
How many times have you felt like a samurai as you approach the green. A tournament deciding putt awaits and your partner looks on in helplessness as you prepare your mind for the task ahead. Slowly, you remove the putter from the bag and walk towards the ball. Ouch! That chip shot didn't go exactly as planned and you've left yourself with a ten meter long putt on a green with more hills than Rome. Genuflecting on one knee and holding the putter plumb at 90 degrees, your eyes follow the curves and contour to find the exact line to the cup. You take a deep breath to calm your nerves and bravely stand up. Trying to keeping mind all the factors that will enable you to succeed in making this difficult but possible shot you assume your stance.
Are my feet correctly positioned?
Are my shoulders straight?
Did I get the right line?
Am I focusing on the ball?
Will I keep my head down?
How much power do I need to give it?
Is my grip alright?
You can hear your heart beating in your chest and time slows down.
You could hear a pin drop. (If it weren't for the grass)
again, another deep breath, but this time holding it in, as you bring back the club head and take the shot.
You cannot see where the ball is going as it roller-coasters the uneven terrain but you anxiously wait for the exhilarating sound as ball meets cup in perfect unison.
Nigel Nix has been playing golf on and off since he was 5 years old. He is now 42 and runs a humorous golf blog. Golf Mad Blog
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