A very important aspect of Kata Seisan (Hangetsu) is the principle of wave form. This technique is much neglected in modern rigid performances of the kata, however, I want to realise this aspect within Shindo kata practice and give it far more prominence than before.

'Name' means 'wave', a rhythmic rolling action as in a swell on the surface of the sea. The intimation is that what flows in, must go on the ebb and return whence it came. This sense is made specific by the term 'name-gaeshi' (returning wave).

This technique could be incorporated within a specific hand or foot technique such as naihanchi-geri (from horse stance kicking across the front of the body with the sole of the foot), but more usually, will involve movement of the whole body. For example, if I ride an incoming punch by rocking back, and then in immediate response, roll forwards again and execute my own counter thrust, I have performed name-gaeshi-waza.

This principle is realised within the modern context of moving from a back stance into a front stance and back again. In Shinseido, the same principle applies, but it is rather more subtle and flowing. The stances are not specific, rather, they match what is happening with the upper body.

The entire Kata Seisan is permeated with this concept of wave return. Some steps embody the principle in a subtle way, other steps make strong and overt use of the principle in very specific terms. However, in the basic rendition of the form, where a rigid class count method of practise is adhered to, the sense of the returning wave is largely lost

Take the ebb and flow (out then in) incorporated within the last movements of the horse line (line one). There is also a prominent returning wave (out then in) in the tiger aspect of the form (block, double punch, kick, punch). To balance these retreating then advancing strategies, there is an advance and retreat wave form during the initial steps of the crane line (both right then left) and another prominent combination returning wave in the dragon aspect of the form. In a more subtle way, each movement of the form has a built in returning wave principle. Take the first outward receptor and thrust technique of the form which has a built in ebb and flow as we yield to a forceful assault and immediately counter by settling into stance and performing the reversed thrust.

When the practitioner has gained a sense of this important technique, his or her kata will improve immeasurably in terms of general fluidity and smoothness. The returning wave principle will round off many of the hard edges associated with modern karate practice and will lend an ongoing fluidity to the whole form, like the willow yielding to the storm yet always having the internal strength to return to its original position when the wind abates.