-
Purification of Body and Soul: Misogi in Japanese Culture and Aikido
Misogi 禊, deeply rooted in Japanese culture and religious tradition, is a ritual of purification aimed at cleansing both the body and the spirit. Typically, the ritual involves immersing oneself in water, often a natural body of water like a river or waterfall, to wash away impurities and negative energies. The attire is typically white garments, but in many cases, men may wear a loincloth. The practice dates back centuries, and it is said to originate from Izanagi 伊邪那岐, a kami in Japanese mythology, who felt contaminated and purified himself with water after his visit to Yomi 黄泉, the world of death, to see his deceased wife Izanami 伊邪那美. Misogi…
-
Aiki Jinja: Bridging Spirituality and Martial Arts in Iwama
Nestled in the tranquil town of Iwama 岩間, Japan, Aiki Jinja 合気神社 (Aiki Shrine) stands as a testament to the convergence of martial arts and spiritual reverence. In 1942, Ueshiba and his wife, Hatsu, relocated from Tokyo to Iwama. In this little town, Ueshiba dedicated himself to the concept of martial and agricultural unity 武農一如, acquiring land and engaging in farming activities. Subsequently, he constructed both a dojo and a shrine, the Aiki Jinja. He referred to this place as the birthplace of aikido 合気道の産屋. Over time, this site has gained profound significance, now regarded as a sacred ground by countless aikido practitioners. Ueshiba constructed Aiki Jinja as a sanctuary…
