Guardians of Peace

Learn to walk the path of the peaceful warrior, equipping yourself with the skills and insights needed to defend the sacred and protect Mother Earth during these times. Drawing on the wisdom of both the Samurai tradition and Lua (Hawaiian martial arts) we will learn to cultivate inner strength, discipline, and harmony with nature.

Date: March 13-18 [2025]

Where: Big Island, Hawai’i

"The ultimate aim of martial arts is not having to use them." — Miyamoto Musashi, The Book of Five Rings

The best martial artists never fight, for they have mastered the art of peace within themselves.

In the tradition of the samurai, true mastery is not about wielding a sword but cultivating inner stillness and harmony, allowing one to act with clarity and purpose only when absolutely necessary. Hawaiian martial arts, rooted in deep connection to the land and spirit, teach a similar path: to be a protector of the sacred, defending the Earth with reverence, not aggression. Today, we need peaceful warriors who understand that true strength lies in nurturing and preserving the natural world, protecting both the land and spirit. These warriors, like the samurai of old, know that the greatest battle is within, and it is through their commitment to peace, wisdom, and love of Earth that they serve as guardians for future generations.

Meet Your Guides

In this cross-cultural immersion, you will be guided by two masters—one steeped in the ancient traditions of the samurai and the other rooted in the rich heritage of Hawaiian martial arts. Together, they will lead you through a transformative journey, exploring the profound philosophies and practices that define their respective paths, the ways of the peaceful warrior.

  • Hawaiian cultural guardian

    Kumu has been mentored and trained by respected Kūpuna (elders), is a lineage holder, practitioner and instructor of several Native Hawaiian technologies: Ho’oponopono, Lomi Haha, Kaihewalu Lua and Aloha. He is also an internationally recognized cultural resource, keynote speaker, lecturer, trainer and facilitator. Ramsay is the Founder and President of the Hawai’i based Life Enhancement Institute (LEI) of the Pacific, Director of the Pacific Islands Leadership Institute (PILI) at Hawaii Pacific University and Cultural Sustainability Planner at PBR Hawaii & Associates.

  • 16th Generation Samurai & Ninja

    Born in Fukuoka, Japan, is the final heir to an illustrious 16-generation samurai lineage. Over decades, he has masterfully blended a vast array of ancient samurai and ninja teachings with the profound tenets of mindfulness. In embodying this harmonious fusion, zen established the zen samurai academy. At its heart lies his unique moving meditation methodology, serving as a bridge between his timeless legacy and our contemporary global culture.

Some of our activities

    • Samurai sword training

    • Lua (Hawaiian martial arts) training

    • The Way of the Peaceful Warrior - Cross-cultural masterclass

    • Kagura Dance Workshop

    • Visit to Mauna Kea

    • Hoʻoponopono Level 1 & 2 with Kumu Ramsay

    • Japanese Calligraphy

    • Ninja Mudras Training

    • Workshop: How to attaining peace amidst turbulent times

    • Exceptional cuisine crafted by Marisa Franco

Supporting team

Ryan (Ra) James

Christo Millar