Kamae is Japanese and in kanji means "base." It refers to the posture of the entire body. But it also connotes the attitude of the being adopting the posture. It is a reflection of the inner state of the person assuming the stance. Proper kamae is an essential ingredient in shotokan. Correct alignment makes timing and distance drills easier to perform. Slouching weakens technique. Nishiyama Sensei used to emphasize "whole body action" and good kamae. He modeled good posture on and off the dojo floor. Training in CrossFit really improves core strength, a key to proper posture.
Today is Good Friday. Over one billion Catholics remember on this day the trial and execution of justice and mercy incarnate. It is the Triduum.
Today provides an opportunity to adopt the attitude of prayer, the kamae of respect for the love of our savior in freeing us for freedom's sake, as St. Paul put it.
Today is Good Friday. Over one billion Catholics remember on this day the trial and execution of justice and mercy incarnate. It is the Triduum.
What a wonderful connection! I love the concept of kamae as a full physical expression of inner attitude, deepened by exercise and prayer--!! Way cool.
ReplyDeleteFascinating analogy. Posture, bodily and spiritually impact outcome. We are body, and spirit, created in His image, and so, should in both elements be erect, vigilant, pointing to True North. To the Way, the Truth, and the Life. And now, inspired by your analogy, I will finish morning prayer, and then eyes forward, shoulders relaxed, will commence with Clean & Jerks! He is Risen! Alleluia!
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