Kyudo: The Way of the Bow
Discover Kyudo, the Japanese martial art of archery, where the beauty of the shot is as important as hitting the target.
Fundamental Principles
Kyudo (弓道), "the way of the bow," is the Japanese martial art of archery. More than just a technique for hitting a target, Kyudo is a discipline for developing the body and mind. The goal is to achieve a state of "Shin Zen Bi" (Truth, Goodness, Beauty).
The practice focuses on the "Hassetsu," the eight fundamental stages of shooting. Each stage must be executed with precision, calmness, and total concentration, leading to a natural and effortless shot.
The Shot as a Mirror
In Kyudo, the target is not just an object to be hit, but a mirror of the archer's soul. A correct and beautiful shot, even if it misses the target, is more valued than a shot that hits the target by chance or pure technique. The goal is to harmonize the body, mind, and bow.
Benefits of the Practice
- Development of correct posture, stability, and balance.
- Improvement of concentration, calmness, and clarity of mind.
- Cultivation of patience, dignity, and respect.
- Harmonization of body and mind in an aesthetic and powerful gesture.
Kyudo is a path of deep meditation, where each arrow is an opportunity to polish oneself and approach the truth.