Sanchin
Sanchin was brought back from China by Kanryo Higaonna, and
means "three battles", the three generally accepted as
being the body, mind and spirit. It is the fundamental kata of
Goju Ryu.
There are two variations of Sanchin kata in use. One is the
original version known as Higaonna Sanchin, and the other is a
modified version, Miyagi Sanchin, with some changes made by
Chojun Miyagi.
To begin, slowly slide the right foot forward in an arc into
right Sanchin Dachi, while inhaling and executing Morote Chudan
Yoko Uke, exhaling as the block is completed. Pull the left fist
into the chambered position, inhaling, Then slowly execute a
Chudan Tsuke while exhaling. Then, inhale and perform a kake Uke,
exhaling as it is completed.
Next, slide the left foot into left Sanchin dachi and perform
the same sequence using the opposite hands. Then, slide the right
foot into right Sanchin Dachi and chamber the left hand while
inhaling. Look to the right and slide the left fist over to the
right elbow while exhaling, then cross the right leg over the
left into Bensoku Dachi and execute a 180 degree turn to the
left, ending up in left Sanchin Dachi with the right hand
chambering while inhaling.
Perform the same punch/block combination and then repeat the
same sequence stepping and alternating sides three times, ending
up in right Sanchin Dachi.
Perform the 180 degree turn into left
Sanchin Dachi followed by a punch/block combination. Next, step
forward into right Sanchin Dachi and perform the punch, but
instead of ending in Kake Uke, open both hands and face the palms
up, inhaling as you go, and then, while exhaling, turn both hands
palms-down executing a Morote Nukite. Next, execute a Morote
Tsukami Hiki, inhaling and closing the fists as they are brought
back into chamber.
Continue by opening both hands and performing
another Morote Nukite with the same breathing techniques,
followed by the Morote Tsukami Hiki, then repeat the combination
once more, ending with one final Morote Nukite.
Stepping backwards into left Sanchin Dachi, perform a Tora
Guchi. Yame.
