Onegaishimasu!!
Welcome to our playbook, crafted by Kendoka, for Kendoka, as a heartfelt message. It embodies the spirit of sharing and connecting, shaped by our passion and modest knowledge of Kendo. We hope this message reaches all Kendo enthusiasts, inspiring them to continue exploring, practicing, and growing—both physically and spiritually—ensuring that the world of Kendo remains a beautiful place for all.
THE ESSENCE OF KENDO LIES NOT IN THE SWORD, BUT IN THE HEART
KENDO AS A SPIRITUAL ART
When we understand its spiritual and philosophical roots, kendo becomes an art and contributes to our growth, helping us acquire grace and harmony. With insight into the philosophy of kendo, we can reach the quality called kihin (character, refinement, grace, elegance, and poise).
KENDO AND ZEN
Kendo, the Way of the Sword, and Zen Buddhism have a deep-rooted connection, often intertwined in the practice and philosophy of the martial art.
Mindfulness and Focus
Both Kendo and Zen emphasize the importance of being present in the moment. The sword strike, like a Zen meditation, requires full concentration and awareness of the body and mind.
Discipline and Self-Control
Kendo training is rigorous and demanding, requiring discipline and self-control. These qualities are also central to Zen practice, where the mind is trained to focus and resist distractions.
Emptiness
Zen teaches the concept of “emptiness,” or the realization all things are interconnected. In Kendo, this translates to a focus on the present moment and avoiding dwelling on past mistakes or future fears.
The Path of Enlightenment
Through rigorous practice, kendoka can cultivate a sense of enlightenment or enlightenment-like states.
Ki Ken Tai Ichi
Ki Ken Tai Ichi is not merely about synchronizing the movements of Ki, Ken, and Tai. It is a foundational kihon concept that serves as a guiding principle on your Kendo journey. As you navigate through the challenges of this path, it becomes a beacon in your life, illuminating the way to deeper understanding, where mindfulness, focus, and unity of spirit, technique, and body converge.
Copyright @Tomokaikendo Club
All rights reserved.
Creative Producer: Diem
Illustrator: Thuan Cao
Mini Artbook Design: Nhat Hao
Reference
Books:
1. Pirsig, Robert M. Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance. William Morrow, 1974.
2. Hagakure. The Way of the Samurai. Translated by Thomas Cleary, Shambhala, 1991.
Website
1. https://kendoinfo.wordpress.com/. Accessed 11 Oct. 2024.
2. Tofugu. Budogu Zen, https://californiabudogu.com/.
Accessed 11 Oct. 2024.