Iaido is known as ‘the way of the Samurai Sword’ and focuses on the healthy development of our mind, body and spirit. The main action of the sword is circular to work in harmony with our body as we flow from one movement to another using the power of our inner energy (ki).
The ‘I’ in Iaido refers to the existence of the body and the spirit. The ‘ai’ refers to adaptability and the ability to react and move quickly, efficiently.
Today, the true way of the sword is to fight the enemy within ourselves such as our ego, fear, anger and resentment. Through the study and practice of Iaido, we develop an inner strength, which encourages a strong character and an appreciation for the proud spirit (kigurai). This is supported by following the values of the hakama (the pleated skirt which has five pleats at the front and one pleat at the back – we strive to bring the 5 values each pleat to become the one pleat at the back) namely honour, humility, loyalty, justice and respect. Important values which enable us to lead an honourable life. In essence, we seek to defend these values as we learn to draw the sword with graceful simplicity, sincerity and efficiency of effort – there is no room for flamboyant posturing or ego.
Iaido offers a unique opportunity to develop not only our physical health but also our mental and spiritual well-being. From the physical perspective we develop strong legs, torso, posture and flexible movement. There is great emphasis on control, discipline, concentration and precision, which is achieved through repeated practice.
Iaido is considered one of the most spiritual arts, which conveys the principles, and concepts of Zen. A beautiful phrase in Iaido is ‘muga mushin’ which roughly translated means ‘no self, no mind’. The principle is to put aside ego, conceit and thoughts of winning to defeat the opponent. The intention is to win without drawing our sword – this is the ultimate strength, courage and power.
True Iaido practitioners seek enlightenment, harmony, serenity, clarity of mind and truth. Like the traditional samurai who were masters of their martial arts they were also very cultured people well versed in painting, poetry, literature and philosophy.
Iaido, whilst intricate in its physical movements, seeks simplicity to focus the mind to achieve calm in the face of adversity known as ‘Fudoshin’ - a rare quality which Iaido practitioners seek to attain. When facing an oncoming sword the "body" meets the "mind" in an instant. There is no time for delay – a gap (technical name is suki) – which is considered a weak point as it presents the opponent with the opportunity to break our defence and take advantage of the situation.
The true path of the Iaido practitioner is to achieve Heijoshin which means ‘Peace of mind – a constant, stable spirit’. Broken down ‘Hei’ means peaceful, calm and steady, ‘Jo’ means always, constant and ‘Shin’ means heart - more in the sense of mind, spirit, the emotions - the true character. The principles of Heijoshin work towards developing the mind - the combination of intellect, emotions and character. Like a flower (chrysanthemum – the Mon on the samurai sword) our inner spirit grows through practice, patience and truth as we share and care with sincerity for others around us at home, at work, socially and within the dojo. This is true strength and beauty. Like a flower which opens slowly just before it is about to take full bloom we have a lifetime to develop our Iaido as we strive for perfection – the ever moving target! |
