My three favourite Japanese terms

The Japanese language is very expressive and concise at the same time. This is what I love about it. Not that I speak or understand Japanese, but the few words that I have learned through martial arts - in particular the ones that describe the mental components - tell me a lot about the language. I have also learned that translation can be problematic, due to the unique arrangement of the kanji symbols, so it is prudent to be aware that there may be more than one interpretation for a particular symbol.

Take the word Kiai. This word is used as a shout at the point of maximum impact in kata. Kiai is the convergence of all your energies at a single instant that ensures your goal is attained. In the Eastern view, the universe consists of energy called Ki (the Chinese call it Chi), which is the energy of all living things. It is thought of as life force, internal energy, or spirit, or in a larger, scientific sense it relates to molecular and atomic energies, and in the body, kinetic and metabolic energies.

“Ai” has been translated as union. Allowing that this term can also mean love, combining the terms in a martial arts context makes more sense using the former definition. Kiai can be said to mean union of, or uniting with energy.  It is our union with this ki energy that is the purpose of martial arts training. The shout is the audible expression of focused energy using mind, body and spirit. Developing kiai therefore, is working to unite the mental, physical, and spiritual energies. It is considered the entire reason for the existence of martial arts, both as a way (do) and an art. The techniques of fitness and self defense are only methods and frameworks for learning and practicing kiai.

When performing kata one should project kiai through actions, thoughts, feelings, and eyes so that the ability to dominate the opponent by stealing his will is enhanced. In this way, one learns it is possible to win without fighting.

Zanshin refers to a state of heightened awareness that should exist before, during and after a fight (or kata, or technique). We must remain focused throughout kata or throughout a self defense application. If we practice zanshin, it is less likely we will be caught off guard prior to an attack. The importance of awareness during a technique is self-evident. And it is critical after executing a technique to be aware of the possibility of the attacker having “friends” or a change in circumstance. It would be foolish to let your guard down and allow yourself to be vulnerable to further assaults. A person in a state of zanshin will be totally aware of their surroundings and prepared for anything.

Lastly, mushin is a term that refers to your state of mind when you are engaged with an opponent. It means “no mind” and refers to a mind that is open and not fixed on anything in particular. To fully appreciate the meaning, you have to engage with someone at such a speed that acting is faster than thinking. Your body reacts without thinking. The term originates from sword fighting. If you can imagine two people engaged in sword play so rapid that thinking before acting is impossible. Similarly ground fighting practice offers such an experience as the body is reacting by feel to the other person’s movement, be it offensive or defensive.

During combat, it is common for the mind to become cluttered with thoughts such as “I do not want to get hurt”, “I shall try this technique next”, “I am winning”, “They are winning”, or “I am in pain”, etc. A mind that is cluttered with such thoughts will be unable to devote itself fully to the task at hand and as a result will seriously hamper the effectiveness of any actions. The mind must be free of clutter to allow the body to respond with optimum efficiency.

When first learning a kata, or any new skill, the mind tends to think of which move is coming next. As you get better at clearing your mind, you become more effective at letting the body perform with little or no thought. Do not let the mind wander. Be present to the point where you are what you are doing. As Bruce Lee said, “When you pour water in a cup, it becomes the cup”. When practising kata be sure to avoid all extraneous thought so that mushin may be developed and enhanced. Be the kata!