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Old 12-24-2002, 08:30 AM   #1
Paula Lydon
Dojo: Aikido Shugenkai
Location: Colorado
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oxymoron

~~I am seeking the word or term in Japanese that would describe a state of relaxation with a sense of intensity/alertness. Is that zanshin? Sounds like an oxymoron but I know these states can exist together; I've felt it. Any ideas? Thanks!

~~Paula~~
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Old 12-24-2002, 05:23 PM   #2
Heckler2
Dojo: Aikido BME Budapest
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Smile zanshin

Zanshin can be translated to remaining spirit (literally), or "combative awareness".

In my definition, zanshin is when you stay aware, and don't turn your back instantly to the opponent for example. Zanshin is being aware and relaxed at the same time. I hope i described it right, there is 1:24 AM, and english is not my strongest side
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Old 12-24-2002, 05:42 PM   #3
Steven
 
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Re: oxymoron

Quote:
Paula Lydon wrote:
~~I am seeking the word or term in Japanese that would describe a state of relaxation with a sense of intensity/alertness. Is that zanshin? Sounds like an oxymoron but I know these states can exist together; I've felt it. Any ideas? Thanks!
Aikido ...
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Old 12-25-2002, 09:05 PM   #4
Bronson
 
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Zanshin is the word we use to describe that feeling/state.

Bronson

"A pacifist is not really a pacifist if he is unable to make a choice between violence and non-violence. A true pacifist is able to kill or maim in the blink of an eye, but at the moment of impending destruction of the enemy he chooses non-violence."
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Old 12-25-2002, 09:36 PM   #5
PeterR
 
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I have heard Zanshin described as "presence" rather than just "combative awareness". In most cases we are encouraged to finish our techniques with zanshin which speaks to "remaining spirit" I suppose. However zanshin is also what you try to have before a technique is executed and even outside of a combative situation.

For example - walking into a room at a party where you are aware of all that is occuring (especially the girl in the red dress) and your presence is felt by all there (especially the girl in the red dress).

I agree with Bronson.

Peter Rehse Shodokan Aikido
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Old 12-26-2002, 04:10 AM   #6
mike lee
Location: Taipei, Taiwan
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the way of the ninja

For me, zanshin is all the time — even when I'm sleeping.

It also allows me to enter a party, have a drink and sit down, all totally unnoticed — as if I am invisible. Then, just at the right moment, a friend notices me and says, "Hey! How long have you been here? I didn't even see you walk in!"

That's my art. That's how I practice zanshin.
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Old 12-26-2002, 07:11 PM   #7
PeterR
 
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Re: the way of the ninja

Quote:
Mike Lee (mike lee) wrote:
It also allows me to enter a party, have a drink and sit down, all totally unnoticed — as if I am invisible. Then, just at the right moment, a friend notices me and says, "Hey! How long have you been here? I didn't even see you walk in!"

Peter Rehse Shodokan Aikido
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