Customer Reviews

Ninja Volume 1: Spirit of the Shadow Warrior

5 star:		(12)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This is another one to own; in fact, all of Hayes's books are. It contains more information on elemental manifestations in fighting (similar to Volume 1), basic taihenjutsu (breakfalls, tumbling, and body movement), real-life combat situations, weapons defenses, and spiritual ponderings about the Kuji-in. Hayes, it should be noted, is now a Tendai priest; and his section on the "mudra" (ninja's mystic hand symbols) IS authentic. But the information he gives is not to be "practiced," per se; one shouldn't expect to "use" the hand symbols after reading the book. It takes a qualified instructor to obtain that kind of knowledge. "Warrior Ways of Enlightenment" was one of my favorites of the 5 books in Hayes's "Ninja" series. Again, it's one to own--you'll cherish it for the duration of your ninjutsu training.

This book is of incredible value, it teaches the basic stances, meditation, ways of controlling your own feelings to adapt better to the situation and much more. This is yet another excellent book of Shidoshi Hayes. If you want to learn about Ninjutsu, this book is a must.

It's somewhat pricey for a relatively thin paperback, but this Hayes book contains very useful knowledge about ninjutsu. If you own Hayes's other (earlier) titles, you may think this is simply "rehash"; but it's really not. "Ninja, Volume 1" contains basic kamae (postures), information about the manifestation of the elements in combat (techniques included), meditation exercises, and a "self-help" section about understanding the self. As always, Hayes's wisdom is only surpassed by his instructor's (Dr. Masaaki Hatsumi). It's a worthy investment if you are willing to spend the money!

Although Hayes's "Ninja: Volume 1" now shows a bit of age (that is, sometimes clearly directed at a somewhat New Agey culture of yester-year), overall I'd have to say that this work is surprisingly genuine and engaging. Although it has a few sections on martial techniques, these seem to be its weakest points. Where Ninja Vol. 1 shines is its reflections on "ninja spirituality." It's difficult to say whether Hayes is really presenting age-old ninja spiritual teachings but there's nothing to be found that smacks of erroneous innovation or smoke and mirrors. The impression I get is that Hayes received fairly traditional teachings from his teachers (such as Dr. Hatsumi) and adapted them slightly to his Western audience. In this, Hayes has made a remarkable achievement.

Spirit of the Shadow Warrior written by a western that has a true understanding of Ninjutsu. A student of Grandmaster Hatsumi, Mr. hayes gives us an introduction and lessons that start us on our way of understanding the Togakure Ryu ninjutsu traditions. Book is filled with excellent photos.

All of Shidoshi Stephen K. Hayes' books should be read and studied many many times by all martial artists, they are priceless.

Anyone interested in the true history of the Ninja and how Ninjutsu exists today should review the books. While it is difficult to cover everything in an art as complex as Ninjutsu, the series will give you a good overview. Forget the movies!

I really enjoyed this book! The depth of knowledge that Stephen Hayes teaches in this whole series is amazing, I recommed all of this series to anyone whishing to see the "whole picture" that this ancient warrior art teaches...Oh by the way to the reviewer calling Mr. Hayes a liar etc...going to most of Mr. Hayes books and saying some of the same things makes you look jealous not scholar like in your reviews. Just a thought

Warriorways of Enlightenment written by a western that has a true understanding of Ninjutsu. A student of Grandmaster Hatsumi, Mr. hayes gives us an intriduction and lessons that start us on our way of understanding the Togakure Ryu ninjutsu traditions. Book is filled with excellent photos.

This is a must for ninja students, as are all of Hayes' superior books. Much careful study should be taken here.