Zen Swordwork

"The formula of my happiness: a yes, a no, a straight line -- a goal." - Friedrich Nietzsche

The "yes, no, straight line and goal" of Zen swordwork is total mind-body integration -- that is, attaining and developing the ability to operate entirely within the "thoughtless" state sometimes called Muga Mushin.

As in this fine scene from The Last Samurai.

"Too many mind . . . Mind the sword, mind the people watching, mind the enemy. Too many mind . . . No mind!"

Of course, upon attaining this goal the entire concept of having any goal whatsoever vanishes. Completely. Laughably!

Zen swordwork obviously connects with Zen Ki Ji.