Hi, Ellis. I have a couple of points raised by your post.
Originally Posted by
Ellis Amdur
1. Jikishinkage-ryu is only very distantly related to Kashima Shinto-ryu. There is actually some connection with the former and Kashima Shin-ryu, but that is more on essential principles than techniques. Jikishinkage-ryu is actually closer to Yagyu Shinkage-ryu, fwiw, particularly the 2nd level techniques. (And lest their be any confusion, Kashima Shinto-ryu and Kashima Shin-ryu are REALLY different.
The exact relationship between (Kashima Shinden) Jikishinkage Ryu and Kashima Shinto Ryu is a bit unclear. On paper, the relationship is relatively distant. In practice, however, I've seen very intriguing similarities. Several times I've seen one of the unusual quirks that I thought was unique to Jikishinkage Ryu reflected in Kashima Shinto Ryu. I suspect that there has been more connection between the two than the history suggests. Interestingly, the similarities that I'm thinking of between Kashima Shinto Ryu and Jikishinkage Ryu are not things that I've seen in any of the footage of Kashima Shin Ryu that I've witnessed.
I do agree with you regarding the similarity of Jikishinkage and Yagyu Shinkage; these are often pointed out to me by my instructor. I'm not sure, however, what you mean by "2nd level techniques." Would you mind clarifying?
David Sims
"Cuius testiculos habes, habeas cardia et cerebellum." - Terry Pratchet
My opinion is, in all likelihood, worth exactly what you are paying for it.