Читать книгу Kendo. A Comprehensive Guide to Japanese Swordsmanship онлайн

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We bow when we enter and leave the dojo, at the beginning and end of each session, and to each partner at the beginning and end of each keiko. When we enter the dojo or bow to each other we should make a standing bow, keeping our back straight and arms by our side, bending from the waist. We bow to shomen and to our instructors at an angle of 30 degrees and to our opponents at an angle of 15 degrees. For zarei to start and conclude each session, we begin from the seiza position, placing both hands in front on the floor to form a triangle with the thumb and forefinger of each hand. We then place our forehead directly over the center of the triangle, ensuring that we keep a straight back and that we do not raise our bottom. You should breathe in in the upright position and slowly exhale through the mouth as you lower your torso.

When we bow we should remember that we are not only bowing to our opponent but to those who went before: those who taught us and those who taught them.

Seiza

Seiza may be initially uncomfortable but you get used to it. You should sit with your bottom in the triangle made by your feet. Big toes should be touching or overlapped. Knees should be about two fists distance apart, (together for women) and backs should be straight. Your head should be in a natural position with your chin down.