Focusing on the life and philosophy of O-Sensei, the founder of Aikido, this book offers a candid examination of martial arts culture and its practitioners' shortcomings. Amdur introduces a refreshing honesty that challenges traditional narratives, making it a unique contribution to martial arts literature. The revised edition includes eight new chapters and updated photography, enhancing its depth and accessibility with 53 black-and-white illustrations.
Ellis Amdur Books
Ellis Amdur's writing uniquely bridges the worlds of crisis intervention and traditional Japanese martial arts, drawing from his extensive experience as a crisis intervention specialist and a lifelong practitioner of martial traditions. He masterfully illustrates principles of verbal de-escalation, tactical communication, and esoteric knowledge through his own often extraordinary experiences. Amdur's work is distinguished by its blend of hair-raising anecdotes, solid research, and practical, boots-on-the-ground insight. This fusion offers readers a compelling and deeply informed perspective on managing aggression and understanding hidden depths within various disciplines.






In the Eye of the Hurricane
Skills to Calm and De-escalate Aggressive Mentally Ill Family Members
- 272 pages
- 10 hours of reading
Focusing on behavior rather than diagnosis, this comprehensive guidebook offers families effective strategies to manage frightening behaviors often exhibited by individuals with psychiatric or substance use disorders. Ellis Amdur provides practical advice to ensure the safety of both the families and their mentally ill loved ones, addressing issues like verbal outbursts and physical threats. The book serves as a vital resource for those navigating the challenges of mental health crises.
Safe Haven
Skills to Calm and De-escalate Aggressive and Mentally Ill Individuals
- 344 pages
- 13 hours of reading
Focusing on safety in inpatient and residential settings, this guidebook by Ellis Amdur provides professionals with practical strategies to manage and mitigate potentially dangerous behaviors exhibited by individuals with psychiatric or substance use disorders. It outlines a variety of steps to ensure the well-being of staff and clients, emphasizing proactive measures to handle verbal outbursts, physical threats, and violence effectively.
Everything on the Line
Calming & De-escalation of Aggressive & Mentally Ill Individuals on the Phone : A Comprehensive Guidebook for Emergency Dispatch
- 232 pages
- 9 hours of reading
Focusing on the challenges faced by call-takers at Emergency Dispatch Centers, this guidebook provides practical strategies for handling emotionally disturbed callers and assessing threats. It covers essential principles for preparing dispatchers to support first responders and the public while maintaining professionalism. The author emphasizes personal integrity and calmness, offering specific techniques, including breathing methods. Key topics include managing various psychological states, interactions with dangerous individuals, and effective de-escalation tactics tailored to different aggressive behaviors.
Safe Within the Walls
Communication, Control, and De-escalation of Mentally Ill and Aggressive Inmates for Correctional Officers in Prison Facilities
- 316 pages
- 12 hours of reading
Focusing on threat assessment, the book provides practical skills for developing a safety mindset and enhancing intuition to recognize danger early. It emphasizes achieving integrity and calmness, offering specific strategies for maintaining composure in crises, including a unique breathing technique. The authors prioritize actionable advice over abstract concepts, equipping readers with tools to navigate challenging situations effectively.
Words of Power
A Guide for Ordinary People to Calm and De-Escalate Aggressive Individuals: Special Edition
- 220 pages
- 8 hours of reading
Focusing on everyday interactions, this guide addresses the common challenge of dealing with aggressive individuals in various settings. Unlike specialized texts for professionals, it offers practical strategies for ordinary people, emphasizing de-escalation techniques and verbal control tactics. Developed with input from non-experts, the book distills essential information to empower readers in handling anger without prior experience in conflict resolution. It also highlights the importance of self-awareness and maintaining personal calm to foster peaceful outcomes.
Grace Under Fire
Skills to Calm and De-escalate Aggressive & Mentally Ill Individuals (For Those in Social Services or Helping Professions) 2nd Edition
- 360 pages
- 13 hours of reading
The book explores the complex behaviors exhibited by individuals with psychiatric or substance use disorders, including verbal outbursts, physical threats, and violence. It delves into the underlying causes of these behaviors, aiming to provide insights and understanding for caregivers, mental health professionals, and society at large. By examining these challenging aspects, the work seeks to foster empathy and improve responses to those in distress.
Swordplay
- 346 pages
- 13 hours of reading
Translation of illustrated 1595 Dutch manuscript Schermkunst (Swordplay). Discusses fencing with single sword, rapier and dagger, rapier and buckler, halberd, and full pike. Translated and contextualised by Reinier van Noort, a respected Dutch swordsman, instructor and researcher. 39 colour illustrations.