The Essence of Budo: A Practitioner’s Guide to Understanding the Japanese Martial Ways
By Dave Lowry
Shambhala Publications 2010; 182 pp., $16.95 (paper)
Budo, the Japanese term for the study of martial arts, is the practice of a mind, body and spirit in balance. In his book The Essence of Budo, Dave Lowry explores what it means to commit to the path of a martial artist. With humor and honesty Lowry describes the three most important parts of Budo practice. First the physical practice of Budo, second the cultural and traditional influences and finally he contemplates the wider questions of committing to the path. Lowry says these three areas “are inseparable, intertwined and equally important.” A fascinating read and accessible to anyone interested in traditional Japanese culture.
wonderful article! reminds me of my Aikido Sensai everytime i would see him he asked me the same question…when do you practice aikido and i would answer "Always" then bow thank you