Reigi

Reigi means "etiquette" or "respect forms" and has proved to be a valuable addition to the practice of shugyo (spiritual training). While Westerners will generally resist this training due to a misconception of reigi as subservience, Asians tend to practice reigi by rote, which can be just as serious a pitfall. When setting your mind to training, a mental and physical check is made to prepare yourself for the rigors of practice. Training is not undertaken lightly.

As you enter the dojo, a quick look should inform you of the status of practice. Bowing into the dojo is like the final commitment to practice; it clears the mind of any residual clouds. If you have not already done so, now is the time to wash away the sweat of your previous labors. Check the dojo for necessary chores. Once this is done, prepare your dogu (training gear) with attention and purpose. Arriving late, when class has already begun, is rarely unavoidable, but it does happen. The dojo reigi in these instances should be observed with especial care to prevent injury due to unpreparedness. Committed practice often clears the soul and therefore can be used to help overcome a minor illness or disturbance in balance. However, if you are seriously ill or have a major disturbance in balance due to emotional stress or outside substances, you are advised to stay home and practice meditation or breathing training, or watch class from the sidelines. You may be encouraged to do this by your instructor or sempai. Remember that all actions are practice and become part of us, however minor. Be mindful after class that you continue to train, since this is a common time when we slacken our Ki and resolve.

Be hard on yourself, be compassionate to others