Shugyo is the Japanese pronunciation of a word which basically means, “deep mind-body training”.  This means any kind of training such as in aikido Kung Fu, Zazen (seated meditation), archery, or artistic endeavors such as shodo (calligraphy), ikebana (flower arrangement), or in Buddhist training that pursues higher or deeper levels of consciousness, as well as the refinement of an ability.  Training for Shugyo is not easy, it’s demanding, requiring a lot of effort, mindfulness and refinement.  Shugyosha (the one practicing shugyo) should always extend their effort of energy, concentration and mindfulness to everything they are training for.

The training of shugyo is an emphasis on the depth of knowledge, wisdom, experience and technical ability.  The student practices the form over and over again, but each time they practice, they should seek a higher level or should refine the skill.  It doesn’t matter how long I have been practicing the same thing, I find that I never get perfect.  There is always something better to learn, to add to what I already know.

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