Iaido, whilst intricate in its physical movements, seeks simplicity to focus the mind to achieve calm in the face of adversity known as ‘Fudoshin’ – a rare quality which Iaido practitioners seek to attain. Like the traditional samurai who were masters of their martial arts they were also very cultured people well versed in painting, poetry, literature and philosophy. True Iaido practitioners seek enlightenment, harmony, serenity, clarity of mind and truth. The intention is to win without drawing our sword – this is the ultimate strength, courage and power. The principle is to put aside ego, conceit and thoughts of winning to defeat the opponent. An adept of Iai seeks not only to cut through his enemies but rather to cut through his own delusions first.Ī beautiful phrase in Iaido is ‘muga mushin’ which roughly translated means ‘no self, no mind’. Through a controlled flow of movement, the practitioner seeks to unite his spirit, the action, and the sword, Through this unification the sword becomes a tool to forge the human character. The right action can be executed only if mind and body are one. We learn to work in harmony with our body as we flow from one movement to another, to draw the sword with graceful simplicity, and honesty. There is a great emphasis on control, precision but also on softness and relaxation. A beginner’s performance reveals lack of control and rigidity while a master’s appear effortless and natural.įrom the physical perspective one develops strong posture and graceful movements. Techniques are highly refined, simple and direct. By practicing in a repetitive manner the practitioner learns and develops technique. Each form represents a different combat scenario. Since Iaido is practiced with a weapon, the training is based on kata (set forms). The study of Iaido encourages strength, balance, co-ordination and suppleness.
Nowadays Iaido represents the intrinsic form of Japanese Budo and is used as a form of mental and physical discipline, emphasising correct technique and form and character development. Hayashizaki Jinsuke Shigenobu (1542-1621), like Iizasa Choisai, is reputed to have received a divine inspiration, which led to the development of his art.
Iaido as we know it today probably began with Iizasa Choisai, the founder of the Tenshin Shoden Katori Shinto Ryu. The sword is drawn to defend oneself, to control or kill an enemy in the most efficient way. The characters for Iai-Do can be translated as “the way of innate presence and harmonious action” or “the way of harmonious being”. Iaido 居合道 is the art of drawing a Japanese sword from its scabbard to obtain advantage over an opponent.
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