Under the Discipline of Light

Archery — The Path of the Empty Mind

In Japanese archery (kyūdō), hitting the target is secondary to achieving mushin, the “mind without mind.” The archer becomes one with the bow, the arrow, and the breath — embodying the Zen ideal of effortless concentration. It teaches that mastery lies not in control but in surrender: when body, spirit, and intent align, the arrow finds its mark naturally. The practice symbolizes precision through peace, and strength through serenity.