The Spirit of Budo - Old traditions for present day life.

The Spirit of Budo by Trevor Leggett is a comprehensive guide to the philosophy and practice of the martial arts. Drawing on his extensive experience as a practitioner and teacher of various martial arts, Leggett explores the deeper meaning and purpose behind these disciplines, and how they can be applied to everyday life. The book covers a wide range of topics, from the history and development of martial arts in Japan to the principles of Zen Buddhism and Taoism that underpin their philosophy. Leggett also delves into the practical aspects of training, including techniques for developing physical strength, flexibility, and mental focus. What sets The Spirit of Budo apart from other martial arts books is its emphasis on the spiritual and philosophical aspects of these disciplines. Leggett argues that the true purpose of martial arts is not simply to win fights or competitions, but to cultivate a deeper understanding of ourselves and our place in the world. Throughout the book, Leggett draws on examples from his own life and experiences, as well as stories and teachings from some of the greatest martial artists and spiritual leaders of all time. The result is a rich and inspiring exploration of the spirit of budo, and a valuable resource for anyone interested in martial arts, spirituality, or personal growth.

Trevor Pryce Leggett (1914-2000) studied Ved?nta and the traditional Yoga of the Self for over sixty years and for eighteen years was a pupil of Hari Prasad Shastri. He lived for a number of years in Japan where he learnt Japanese and studied Judo and Zen. He was the first foreigner to hold the sixth Dan in Judo from the Kodokan, Tokyo, and he was fourth Dan in Shogi (Japanese chess). He was one of the leading teachers of Judo in the United Kingdom. From 1946 until his retirement in 1970 he was Head of the Japanese Service of the BBC. Trevor Leggett was the author and translator of marvellous books on Yoga, Zen, Judo and Shogi. In 1987 the All-Japan Buddhist Association gave him a literary award for his translations and in 1990 he was invited to speak on his ?a?kara translations to the three day International Seminar on ?a?kara held in New Delhi. His books of teaching and training stories include stories used by teachers in the Eastern spiritual schools to assist students in their training and those drawn from his own personal training experiences. Their aim is to find realisation and inspiration in daily life. Trevor Leggett provided in his will for a charity to be established to promote the study of Yoga, Ved?nta, Buddhism, Zen, Judo and Shogi and the Trevor Leggett Adhyatma Yoga Trust ('TLAYT') was registered with the Charity Commission (number 1086172) in 2001. TLAYT holds the copyright to all of Trevor Leggett's books and it has worked steadily to bring them all back into print, which following the republication of 'Kata Judo,' is now the case. To this end we have been greatly assisted by our friends at the Buddhist Society Trust, M-Y Books Ltd and a number of Trevor's old Judo friends and pupils.