Vajrayana: An Essential Guide to Practice

We have selected this third book to introduce our students to the third major branch of Buddhism, Vajrayana. Written by Traleg Kyabgon Rinpoche and presented by Dzigar Kongtrul, it captures the profound wisdom and compassion of the Vajrayana lineage, making its teachings accessible to modern practitioners. The book illuminates the tantric practices and principles, revealing insights that are often hidden, and offers guidance to deepen spiritual understanding, mindfulness, and personal growth. Studying it can enrich your martial arts journey by connecting physical practice with the transformative aspects of mind, heart, and awareness.

by Traleg Kyabgon (Author)

4.8

Tao Te Ching: The Ancient Classic (Capstone Classics)

We have selected this book as a classic introduction to the basics of Taoism. This ancient Chinese text has inspired millions with its focus on natural attunement rather than mindless striving, offering timeless guidance on balance, flow, and personal development.

For martial artists, its principles provide insight into movement, strategy, and the cultivation of harmony—both in training and in life—making it a valuable companion to deepen your understanding of the philosophical foundations that enrich Bujinkan practice.

by Lao Tzu (Author), Tom Butler-Bowdon (Introduction)

4.6

Ten | Metaphysics / Taoism

Ways of Warriors, Codes of Kings: Lessons in Leadership from the Chinese Classics

We have selected this book as a reference that gathers many of the key Chinese classics in a single volume. While it may not provide in-depth guidance on strategy, it offers a clear and accessible introduction for beginners, presenting excerpts from six major works—including The Art of War and other lesser-known texts—and giving students a solid foundation to expand their understanding of leadership and strategic principles.

by Thomas Cleary (Translator)

Chi | Conflict

4.2

Chi | Conflict / War Classics

The Complete Book of Five Rings

We have selected this book as one of the fundamental classics of Japanese strategy and martial arts, essential for beginners. The Complete Book of Five Rings presents Musashi’s seminal works, including The Book of Five Rings, The Mirror of the Way of Strategy, and other key writings, all translated and annotated by modern martial arts master Kenji Tokitsu. This collection provides a detailed and nuanced view of Musashi’s approach to swordsmanship, strategy, and self-cultivation, while placing his teachings in historical and philosophical context. Ut offers essential insights into the foundations of Japanese martial strategy.

by Miyamoto Musashi (Author), Kenji Tokitsu (Author)

4.7