Prominent figures such as Zen priest Takuan Soho, swordsman Yagyu Munenori, and Miyamoto Musashi wrote about freeing the mind from attachment and fear—principles still central to budo today. This mental discipline was considered just as crucial as physical skill, forming the triad of shin-gi-tai (心技体): mind, technique, and body.
Beyond Zen, many warriors also practiced esoteric Shingon Buddhism, using mantras, mudra (hand gestures), and meditation to build concentration and courage. These practices were integrated into schools like Katori Shinto Ryu, reflecting the seamless union of martial and spiritual cultivation.
Facing death without fear was another cornerstone of the warrior spirit. Texts like Hagakure and Budo Shoshinshu taught that meditating on mortality freed warriors from hesitation in battle. By accepting death, they found clarity and purpose—a lesson echoed in the term seishi o choetsu (生死を超越): “to transcend life and death.”
Train Your Mind and Body at a Japanese Martial Arts Association
SMAA is a martial arts association for all martial artists who want to be part of a community of dedicating to keeping the spirit of budo alive. If you love your art and want to share it with others, give us a call at (734) 720-0330 or submit a contact form to talk about joining!
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