Welcome

Shintaido of America

Opening to Life

Shintaido ( 新体道, translated from Japanese as ‘New Body Way’ )

Shintaido is a body movement practice that provides a journey of self-discovery, fosters connection with community, and invites exploration of nature and the universe through physical expression.

We believe that by opening our bodies, we open ourselves to the fullness of life.

Shintaido of America

What Sets Shintaido Apart?

Rooted in traditional Japanese martial arts, Shintaido stands out with its unique philosophy of cooperation. Unlike most martial arts, the goal of Shintaido isn’t to defeat an opponent but to support, help and uplift others.

Hands Connected
Beach tenso
Shintaido of America 

Shintaido Movement

Shintaido movement is centered around two key elements: opening and cutting.

Opening our bodies allows us to connect and receive from others.

Cutting movements in shintaido are not about defeating an opponent but about helping those we practice with to release what no longer serves them.

Cutting open and all of shintaido practice is based on consent – partners opt-in to each part of each movement.

At its core, shintaido aims to foster a diverse community and cultivate meaningful connections. collaboration—we cannot grow alone. In shintaido, “you help me grow.”

Shintaido of America

Shintaido Forms

Shintaido disciplines blend physical training, creativity, improvisation, and meditative movement.

Shintaido classes, known as keiko, incorporate solo practice, group exercises, and partner work.

There are five primary forms of shintaido:

The foundation of shintaido lies in two core movements, practiced by all shintaido practitioners:

    1. Open-hand Shintaido: Dynamic, vigorous movements that open the body through voice and expansive patterns.
    2. Soft-hand Shintaido: Gentle, flowing movements that open the body through meditative, calming patterns.

In addition, there are three additional forms that some practitioners explore during their shintaido journey. Each can be practiced with either vigorous energy or a meditative approach:

    1. Shintaido karate: Techniques involving punches, kicks, and rolls.
    2. Shintaido bojutsu: Movements using a quarterstaff (6-foot pole).
    3. Shintaido kenjutsu: Practices involving wooden swords.
Push hands outdoors
Tenso 2
Shintaido of America 

The Benefits of Shintaido

Shintaido is a physical practice that nurtures spiritual connection and practices in a community. It offers a path to enhanced well-being, a profound connection to yourself and others, and an adventure that is both deeply physical and inwardly transformative.

We invite you to join us on this journey.