Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Judo Ron 24 Mokuso-Meditation - Doc
Judo Ron 24 Mokuso-Meditation - Doc
Without entering into the philosophical concept of Zen and its practices, one
needs to recall that in ancient times, the Japanese warrior class of Samurai
like so many artists in other fields, used to seek calmness and concentration
before entertaining to proceed with their work at hand. The blacksmith, the
theatre No actor, the musician, the painter and the politician alike, all took
the time to bridge their knowledge from past experience, gather their
thoughts in order to clear the process or path they would follow and take the
initiative to properly assess their decision and timing to proceed or act
accordingly.
1
Shin Gi Tai, The Discovery of Judo’s Arsenal, August 2008
Judo discussion and investigation of selected topics by Ronald Desormeaux
In order to maximize your mental transition from the outside world to the
dojo environment, you need to consider the following aspects:
1. You can not and should not enter a judo session charged with all sorts
of mental problems or baggage. Leave them outside the training area
and be prepared to concentrate on the tasks at hand.
2. Be of open mind, you need not to criticize the ways and means
provided to you. You should ask questions to elucidate technical
difficulties yet do not pass judgement. You need to be in harmony and
receive these instructions as they are delivered. You will have
sufficient time later to make your own adaptation and personalization
as required.
3. What you are about to embark upon is a form martial art training. It is
a serious matter and you will need all your attention and focus. Even
if you think that judo is only a sport or recreation, your advancement
will depend on the care and commitment you demonstrate towards the
other training partners.
The Mokuso period may last from one minute to four depending on the
milieu and the culture of the dojo. It is normally performed while in Seiza
posture, that of sitting properly on your knees. Such a posture is common in
most martial arts milieu. It is part of the cultural heritage in Japan. It is a
social characteristic adopted by both the common people and the aristocrat
of yesteryears. Seiza is defined as being sitting down in a proper erect
posture with a calm and peaceful mind. (Seiza means vertical, correct or
straight). One has to recall that the Samurai used to adopt such a posture
when entering a private house or visiting a feudal lord. In Seiza, they were
able to show respect for their host, present themselves as peaceful visitor
with their hands resting on their knees and carrying no weapons, yet they
stood at the ready to react quickly should the need arise.
The student may therefore choose to practice Mokuso on his own at different
moments of the day and which are most opportune for his concentration and
meditation.
During those fleeting moments, try to empty your mind of all negative
thoughts and obstacles such as fear, pain and anticipation, forget your
preoccupations about rules and logic. Just counting numbers of breaths will
help the beginners to dispel other thoughts. Zoom in on the prospect of what
you are about to undertake. Do not ask questions nor make mental reasoning
or judgement. Just try be free of mental procedures. Try to relax and find
your inner peace.
It is Jigoro Kano Shihan the founder of Judo that once said: Judo without
spirit has no value, even if it is fine in form or technique.
Mokuso Yame