Tuesday 23 September 2014

Zanshin 残心

Zanshin is a term used in Japanese martial arts. It refers to a continuous state of awareness or alertness, particularly one’s posture, balance, stance, concentration and attitude after a technique or kata has been executed.

The literal translation of zanshin is “remaining mind," though the simplest interpretation is perhaps “staying focused."

Just as in the kamae state of ready awareness at the beginning of any action, zanshin means being continually aware of one's surroundings, prepared to instantly react – a state of mental alertness and physical readiness to meet any situation - including further attacks. 

Zanshin, as considered from the perspective of Aikido, is given a more detailed and interesting explication here.

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