In the past year, I have often been too busy to attend keiko regularly. Previously I have tried to maximize my physical output to make the most of my limited keiko time to maintain my level, however, I feel I have actually improved more by trying to do kendo with a focus on thought.
Very recently I was surprised by a Sensei who practices less than me, who is older than me, and yet seemingly effortlessly, could strike me every time I moved. He was there every time I turned and was constantly catching me flat footed at tsubazeriai. It was immeasurably frustrating, all of my progress seemed lost, my kamae and footwork broken.
"Zanshin" he said after practice, "you have to remain focused all the time". Of course it was a valuable learning experience, one that I hope I can build upon.
Very recently I was surprised by a Sensei who practices less than me, who is older than me, and yet seemingly effortlessly, could strike me every time I moved. He was there every time I turned and was constantly catching me flat footed at tsubazeriai. It was immeasurably frustrating, all of my progress seemed lost, my kamae and footwork broken.
"Zanshin" he said after practice, "you have to remain focused all the time". Of course it was a valuable learning experience, one that I hope I can build upon.
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| Zanshin Photo : source |
Written by John Doherty
