According the art of Japanese Swordsmanship, Ki- Ken- Tai- Ichi, generally refers to the vital components applied simultaneously to an attack, designed to effectively destroy or seriously hinder an opponent. These components consist of Ki- Spirit, Ken- Sword, and Tai- Body as one- Ichi. When properly assembled and applied the result is that of a devastating blow onto the enemy. Faltering in any one of these points will lead to imperfection of technique and making the outcome that of an ineffective blow, possibly resulting in negative repercussions.
Ki- Spirit
In Budo, just as in life, Ki refers to ones inner spirit, therefore being the most essential of the three components that compose Ki- Ken- Tai- Ichi. Ki, in life, is interpreted as the confidence which can only be developed through the knowledge of ones understanding of the steps taken to preparedness. Without this understanding of preparedness, one will falter in accomplishing the final goal of total destruction of an opponent or any given situation in life itself.
Ken- Sword
Ken simply refers to the vehicle utilized to overcome a life and death situation. Of course, one does not need to posses the ability to wield a blade to be victorious, but certainly must contain the capability to utilize some form of weapon, weather tangible or mental, in order to achieve a positive response in the situations that confront them in daily life. In other words, one must not head into battle empty handed, but rather with some sort of concept or weaponry to defeat to opposing force. For although perhaps strong in mind and body one will find them self in defeat without a vehicle in which to carryout their plan of attack.
Tai- Body
When concepts of Ki and Ken are understood and underway in the attack procedure, the final step is that of Tai- Body. In swordsmanship, Tai is the entrance of the body committing oneself to the final blow. In life, the final step to be learned from this Budo concept is that of total commitment to the procedure utilized to overcome ones problems, making this step essential in delivering the final response in an affirmative manner.
It is when these three components Ki, Ken, and Tai are applied together in any given circumstance that one can assume to achieve a successful outcome from their approach. For utilizing these three elements combined in attack, the opponent will find him or herself overwhelmed and defeated, as will the situations one encounters through life. It is concepts such as these that one starts to discover the true hidden powers that lie within Budo and that should be respected and followed. As to make oneself aware of the possibilities that surround them and of others that may be using these concepts against them.