BARNHART: Demonstration with an edge
Library to host Japanese sword program
"It should be interesting," said Patty Lagerman, children's librarian.
Mark Rubbert, executive director of the St. Louis Ki Society, will give a presentation about the Japanese sword called katana and the wooden training sword known as bokken. Rubbert said that he has recently started learning how to use the real sword in demonstrations, but because the katana is "quite dangerous," the sword will be available mostly for show.The presentation itself will focus more on the bokken swords and relating the training to the Japanese concept of ki and practice of the martial art Aikido. The demonstration will also include information about Japanese history and culture as it relates to the sword.
"Pop culture involves a lot of influence of Japanese culture," Rubbert said.
Aikido focuses more on movement than on striking and kicking. Ki is understood as a sense of connection and motivation that is enhanced by calmness and relaxation. According to Rubbert, the sword training is used to learn how the body can move with an object.
"The brain maps the body," Rubbert said. "That's how you get your sense of your body."
He added that humans are unique in their ability to map out the use of space around the body, especially through the use of tools. Within the last 10 years, science has identified how the brain forms such "maps" neurologically.
"We now have a scientific explanation for what has been taught for millenia," Rubbert said. "You become one with the weapon."
The sword presentation is scheduled for 2 p.m. Wednesday at the Windsor Branch of the library. Young people ages 12 and older are invited, but registration is requested. For more information or to reserve a seat, contact the library at 636-461-1914.
