Reflections on Meditation – Part 2: Some Experiences and Catching the Ninja

I reflect on some of my experiences along this journey of meditation.  Like a travel guide, perhaps this may be useful for those starting or considering to start the journey.  Though

The Mirror in the Heart of Master Swordsmen (and Jedi Masters) – Quotes

Many master swordsmen and revered kendo teachers mention the importance of having a heart with a clear mirror.  That with such a mirror, one can intuit the heart and

From Over-eating to Intuitive Eating

A student asked for advice related to eating.  He was struggling with over-eating and its associated complications to his weight, health and ability to do kendo.

“Soft Eyes,” A Way of Seeing and Being – Quotes and Resources

I believe that “Soft Eyes” is an extremely important part of kendo and many areas of life.  It is a natural, tension-free way of seeing and being – which goes by many other names: Whole or Effortless Seeing, Soft or Open Focus, Wide-Angled, Peripheral or Panoramic Vision and “Enzan no Metsuke.”

The Blown Feather Sword (吹毛剣) – To Cut Away Our Attachments and Shikai

Here’s a translation of an explanation of a koan [Wiki_Koan] regarding a special sword referred to as “The Blown Feather Sword”（吹毛剣－suimouken).  A koan is typically a

Quotes on Mushin, Flow and Open-Focus – Part 1

Reflections on Meditation – Part 1: Some Benefits

This article is intended for those wondering if meditation might be useful for them in kendo or other areas of life.  I reflect on some of the benefits I have experienced through