5 Habits you need in a Martial Arts Dojo

Something for Martial Artist’s of all levels from prospective student to Grandmaster. Martial Arts (MA) dojos are a unique environment. 

There is no other setting like it in our day to day lives... So what follows are the 5 habits you need in a martial arts dojo. Keep them in mind and practice them when in session.

We are starting with:

  

1. Respect

To all; young, old, higher or lower grade and the Dojo itself require respect... This is exemplified in all our interaction.

It is safe to say, in the age we live now. Respect is not taught widely as before and I sometimes have to remind myself of its importance... So, why in a dojo – Originally respect is cultural aspect of Asia which naturally spilt into their Martial Art. The two are ingrained within each other. Wherever you find traditional Martial Arts, you’ll find respect.

2. Harmony

Oneness with yourself, your fellow Martial Artist and the sport itself.

As we know, harmony is to be in tune... And it is that simple in the dojo. In tune with what is going on.

The dojo has a natural flow of movement, forces, thought, and unison and when you enter one that is in harmony. It is awe inspiring.

The first thing you’ll notice is the participants want to be there, it can be seen in their attentiveness, their participation and their volume – One big oneness.

3. Presence

Presence in mind, body and soul – put simply... As with any art, there is a getting ‘in sync’ with. ..It’s the same at the dojo. 

Your presence as an individual is mighty! Because your body is saying it, your voice is hailing it and your mind believes it.

 

4. Commitment

Shall I? Shan’t I?  My work, my rest, my this or that... With martial Arts – Once through the basics, you can pick your level of input and work on that...

You know where you are and what’s required of you and what you require from yourself... Having said that, the basics take effort and time to master. But well worth it. 

Depending on the time frame you set for yourself, or set by your school/sensei, check out “how do I choose the right martial arts school for me”. You can take this at a gentle pace. There is no rush.

5. Helpfulness

This is mainly in the running of a good healthy dojo... House-keeping, organising, grading for fellow MA’s. As well as events in and out of the dojo.

Then there is helping to teach and pass on knowledge to other students coming up in the dojo – They’ll have questions and need instruction and demonstration to learn what they need to replicate your success and find their own place in the dojo from where to rise to whatsoever sights they have set for themselves.

Here at the finish already!

That went very quickly indeed... “5 habits you need in a martial arts dojo”. Giving you an insight into the attitude of a Martial Artist, in his place of practice. The Dojo.

Hope you found this useful.

Please leave a comment, ask questions or feel free to add your insights from your own dojo, all in the comments box below.

Thanks for your time.