Iaido Okuiai IwazaNoBu /Suwarigata Iwata Norikazu Sensei (Transl. in description) 居合道 奥居合居業之部 岩田憲一

Okuiai IwazaNoBu /Suwarigata 奥居合居業之部 /座り方 Iwata Norikazu 岩田憲一 Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu Iaido 無双直伝英信流 居合道 Oku techniques are designed to address scenarios involving multiple opponents. Unlike the basic techniques of Seiza no Bu (kneeling techniques) and Tatehiza no Bu (half-kneeling techniques), which assume one-on-one combat, it is crucial in Oku techniques to avoid making any footstep sounds. This is because the sound of footsteps could provoke additional opponents. Additionally, when sheathing the sword, it must be done in a single motion, with two-thirds of the blade entering the scabbard in one swift movement. The practitioner must remain prepared and poised to transition into the next action at any moment. Even if the opponent directly in front of you is defeated, one must always be aware of the possibility of multiple additional opponents. === Okuiai Iwaza no Bu (Okuden) 奥居合居業之部 1.霞 Kasumi 2.脛囲 Sunegakoi 3.戸詰 Tozume 4.戸脇 Towaki 5.四方切 Shihōgiri 6.棚下 Tanashita 7.両詰 Ryōzume 8.虎走 Torabashiri === The sitting posture for Oku Iai is the same as for Tatehiza no Bu. Even when adjusting the hakama, one must not look down but instead maintain a fixed gaze forward (metsuke) to avoid any hint of complacency toward the opponent. With the mindset of pushing the lower abdomen forward, always keep your gaze directed ahead while sitting. When kneeling, the side of the right foot’s small toe should lightly touch the floor, ensuring that you are always prepared to move instantly if necessary.