Attack Along the Meridian

The first principle you learn in Kyusho Jitsu is to attack along the meridian. This means that when you strike a specific point on a meridian, it is advantageous to follow up with another strike on the same meridian. The idea behind this principle is that a multiple attack along one meridian can be more effective than a single attack.

For example, if you hit someone at LI-10 (a point on the Large Intestine meridian), it would make sense to follow up with another strike on the Large Intestine meridian. However, the question arises as to which point on the meridian should be targeted.

Two simple and commonly used strike points on the Large Intestine meridian are LI-10 and LI-01. LI-10 is located in the center of the meridian, making it easily accessible for a strike. LI-01, on the other hand, is at the end of the meridian near the nose, which can also be a convenient point to target. Therefore, both LI-10 and LI-01 fulfill the principle of attacking along the meridian.

But there's more to consider when applying this principle effectively. To maximize your results, particularly in life and death situations, it is important to change sides of the body during your strikes. For example, if your initial strike is on LI-10 on the left side of the body, you should aim to strike a corresponding point on the right side of the body.

This is because the Large Intestine meridian crosses the body's centerline. By switching sides, you can effectively hit the other end of the meridian (in this case, LI-20 near the nose). It's worth noting that a strong strike on LI-20 has the potential to cause a knockout, although we will ignore that possibility for the sake of our example.

Now, if you have the opportunity to strike again after targeting LI-20, the next best point to strike, while still following the principle of attacking along the meridian, would be on the Lung meridian. This is because the meridian system consists of 12 meridians and 2 vessels. While we often treat each side of the body as separate, there is actually only one heart meridian that appears on two different parts of the body and is longer than it seems.

When you hit a point like LU-8 on the right arm, you are activating that meridian on the right side for around 20 minutes, depending on the intensity of the strike. While the other side is affected to some extent, it is not significantly impacted. Therefore, to effectively attack along the meridian, it is important to switch sides of the body and strike corresponding points on the opposite meridian.

Kyusho Cycle of Destruction: The Basics

One of the fundamental principles in Kyusho Jitsu is understanding the Cycle of Destruction. This concept forms the building blocks of pressure point self defense. The Cycle of Destruction consists of five elements, each of which is linked to the element that follows it, creating a continuous circle:

• Fire melts Metal.
• Metal chops Wood.
• Wood penetrates Earth.
• Earth dams Water.
• Water quenches Fire.

Kyusho Cycle of Destruction – The Body Meridians

The human body is composed of 12 meridians, and each meridian is associated with a specific element. Although this correspondence is not absolute, each meridian tends to have a predominant energy related to one element. Here is a breakdown of the body meridians and their corresponding elements:

Upper Extremities:

• Heart Meridian – Fire
• Small Intestine Meridian – Fire
• Pericardium Meridian – Fire
• Triple Warmer Meridian – Fire
• Lung Meridian – Metal
• Large Intestine Meridian – Metal

Lower Extremities:

• Kidney Meridian – Water
• Bladder Meridian – Water
• Liver Meridian – Wood
• Gall Bladder Meridian - Wood
• Spleen Meridian – Earth
• Stomach Meridian – Earth

Basic Principles in Kyusho Jitsu

The Yin-Yang Principle is a fundamental concept in Kyusho Jitsu. This principle revolves around the idea of balance and the interconnectedness of opposing forces. The Yin-Yang symbol represents this duality in existence and the constant cycle of change.

• In superficial terms, the Yin-Yang symbol represents opposites such as light and dark, right and left, and up and down.
• However, these opposites are not purely separate but rather intertwined aspects of a whole.
• There is no pure good or pure evil, as they are constantly in flux and interconnected.
• The world and the universe operate in cycles, and good and evil are part of this perpetual cycle.

In Kyusho Jitsu, the Principle of Attack using Yin and Yang is one of the most important principles. It is based on the concept that like attracts like, and opposites do not attract. This principle aligns with the natural law that similar energies attract each other.

The 24-Hour Diurnal Cycle is divided into Yin-Yang pairs, with always two like pairs together. This further emphasizes the principle of like attracting like, creating a harmonious balance within the cycle.

The Yin-Yang symbol itself holds significant power and influence. Its orientation and placement within the symbol affect the energy flow and balance. Understanding the symbolism and significance of the Yin-Yang symbol is crucial in mastering Kyusho Jitsu.

Although the Yin-Yang symbol is often regarded as a duality, it is, in fact, a trinity. It represents the extremes and subsequent balance, symbolizing the unity of opposites. This trinity concept is also reflected in the numbers 3, 6, and 9.

In our chaotic world, the Yin-Yang Theory holds great importance. Balance is essential for a fulfilling life, even amidst extreme chaos. Maintaining personal balance is possible, regardless of external circumstances.

For a more comprehensive exploration of the Yin-Yang Theory, consider reading the book "The Power of the Kyusho Yin Yang Theory." This book delves into not only Kyusho Jitsu and Pressure Points but also encompasses broader life principles.

Kyusho Jitsu Body Mechanics

Kyusho Jitsu is a martial art that focuses on the study of pressure points on the human body. To truly understand Kyusho Jitsu, it is important to delve into the principles of body mechanics that are involved. In this lesson, we will explore some of these fundamental principles.

1) Angle of Attack

When attacking a pressure point, it is crucial to understand the correct angle and direction of the strike. The ideal angle for an attack is 45 degrees, while the direction may vary depending on the specific pressure point. Mastering the 45-degree angle of attack requires a deep understanding of Kyusho Jitsu Body Mechanics, which is the fourth principle out of the fifteen principles of Kyusho Jitsu.

2) Angle of Defense

A skilled martial artist knows that engaging in a direct exchange of blows with an opponent is not wise. Instead, it is important to adopt a defensive posture while still being able to counter effectively. Unfortunately, many practitioners fail to grasp this concept, even after years of training. Learning to move in a defensive posture and simultaneously preparing for counterattacks is crucial in Kyusho Jitsu.

3) Triangular Alignment

An effective way to understand and break down an attack is by approaching it from a mathematical perspective. By depersonalizing the attack and analyzing it in terms of angles and distances, practitioners can create devastating counterattacks. This approach allows for the generation of efficient power, resulting in maximum impact. Triangular alignment plays a key role in achieving this goal.

4) Centering

Centering refers to the art of bringing every movement back to the practitioner's center. It is closely tied to the principle of triangular alignment and is crucial for maintaining balance and control during combat situations. By keeping focused on their center, practitioners can effectively execute defensive and offensive maneuvers.

5) Factors of the Opponent

Understanding the various factors related to the opponent is an essential aspect of body mechanics in Kyusho Jitsu. This includes studying and assessing the opponent's body structure, movement patterns, and tendencies. By gaining insight into these factors, practitioners can adapt their techniques and strategies accordingly, increasing their chances of success in combat.

• To summarize, the key principles of Kyusho Jitsu Body Mechanics include:
• 1) Angle of Attack
• 2) Angle of Defense
• 3) Triangular Alignment
• 4) Centering
• 5) Factors of the Opponent

Basic Principles in Kyusho Jitsu

The Principle of Tempo

What is attacking with tempo? The idea is to use the reaction time of the brain, the neurological system to your advantage.

It takes the brain 1/20th of a second to respond to a stimulus on average. So, here is an example of timing strikes:

• Fast, fast, slow.
• Slow, fast, fast.
• Hard, soft, soft.
• Soft hard, hard.

I am sure you get the idea. You would also combine the above. Hard strike done fast, followed by a hard strike done slow, followed by a soft strike done slow. Now slow refers not to the speed of the hit, but the “pause” between hits.

Hard and soft not only represent the impact, but also the tool used. This blends in with the principle of Attack Using Yin and Yang. The entire idea behind this principle is to give the brain time to respond to the stimuli. There are people who practice speed hitting.

This is a fascinating thing, however many of the strikes landed will not have the affect they could have because the brain may not notice that they occurred. Later any damage done will be noticed, but in self defense we do not want delays in response!

A tip here also is to use the principle of Attack Along the Meridian, which would mean to distance the strikes as much as possible for each other, causing the brain to search for the reasons why there is so much stimulus. This is especially helpful when one of more strikes cannot be observed by the eyes. Hits to SP-06 or Triple Yin as it is called is an excellent example.