Refining Technique, Cultivating the Heart
- mjersg
- Sep 5
- 2 min read
In the study of Iaido, the techniques may seem at first to be the most visible measure of progress. Yet, as time passes, it becomes increasingly clear that the heart, Kokoro「心」of the art lies not in the sharpness of the cut, but in the depth of one’s character. It is not the sword that cuts, but the mind behind it, tempered through discipline, humility, and sincerity.
In this light, the spirit of “Sei Bu Yō Shin” (精 武 養 心) — cultivate the heart through refined martial discipline — serves as a quiet reminder. This phrase, shared by World MJER Iaido Federation for the year 2025, is drawn from the teachings of Master Kōno Hyakuren in Iaido Shintai. It encapsulates a key ideal: that the true goal of our practice lies not in physical strength, but in cultivating the inner self. The sword is never an end in itself. Rather, it is a means by which we refine our mind, our heart, and our conduct. Correct understanding emerges when we begin to see how the etiquette, the forms, and the spirit of training are interconnected, all serving as tools to shape not just the sword but the self.
While it is natural to strive for technical proficiency, the more enduring challenge is cultivating clarity and honesty within. This honesty extends beyond performance — it is how we respond to correction, how we speak of others, how we hold ourselves in moments unseen. These choices reveal the true nature of one's character far more than the outward elegance of a cut.
A practitioner who develops fine technique but lacks humility or respect may cut with precision, but the technique is hollow. Conversely, a beginner who stumbles through basics yet carries themselves with sincerity and openness is already walking the Way.
We hope this article has been interesting and informative for the readers.
To accompany this article, the following character is presented: 「心」 (kokoro), meaning the heart, mind, or spirit. In the martial arts, 「心」 represents more than emotion; it is the quiet centre from which sincerity, discipline, and clarity arise. It is through the cultivation of the heart that technique becomes meaningful, and through the nourishment of 心 that learning transforms into character. As expressed in the phrase 精武養心 — refined technique, martial clarity, and the nourishing of the heart — the heart that anchors our actions, connects us to our teachers, and sustains our journey in the Way.
This is the third instalment in the series. The previous two articles are here and here. Please look forward to the upcoming articles in this series. If you're curious about iaido or considering joining our practice, we warmly welcome enquiries about our classes and training schedule. Feel free to reach out — we'd be happy to hear from you.
Singapore Genyokan (厳洋館) is an official dojo of the World MJER Iaido Federation 正統正流無雙直傳英信流居合道国際連盟
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