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 Etiquette |
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Dojo
Etiquette
In
an Aikido dojo, the observation of basic forms
of etiquette is integral to the creation of
a respectful and attentive atmosphere which
is conductive to learning. Although Japanese
forms are unfamiliar to most Westerners, over
a period of time they not only become comfortable
expressions of courtesy, but also, as we come
to understand the levels of meaning behind the
forms, they can enrich and further our practice.
Most basic to these forms is a bow, a gesture
of respect and gratitude.
In
a dojo, please observe the following guidelines:
- A
standing bow is done when entering or leaving
the dojo.
- The
formal bow at the beginning and the end of
practice consists of two or three seated bows
towards the shomen (front wall of
the dojo where the picture of O'Sensei is),
four claps, one more bow, and then a mutual
bow between teacher and students. The form
and complexity of this ceremony marking the
beginning and end of class varies somewhat
from place to place, so in the case of a visiting
instructor his or her example should be followed.
- Effort
should be made to be on time for class, but
if unavoidably late a student should perform
the formal bow individually before beginning
to practise. If it is necessary to leave class
early, a student should inform the instructor
and do an individual formal bow at the close
of his or her own practice.
- Onegaishimasu
("please", or "I ask a favour") and Arigato
gozaimashita ("thank you") are the expressions
used at the beginning and the end of class,
respectively, and also between partners at
the beginning and the end of each individual
practice.
- Traditionally
the instructor is addressed as Sensei
in the dojo. However, the extent to which
this custom is followed depends on the individual
instructor.
- The
proper way to sit during class is in seiza,
a formal Japanese sitting posture. A crosslegged
sitting position is acceptable if seiza is
impossible. If a student has a particular
problem with knees or feet that interferes
with the ability to sit in seiza, make sure
the instructor is informed of the problem.
In any case, an attentive posture should be
maintained. Slouching, slumping, or leaning
is not conductive to the practice of balance
and centering! Students should not sit with
legs outstretched.
- Students
should not sit with their backs towards the
shomen (wall with the picture of O'sensei);
traditionally this is the place for the instructor
or master to sit while watching class. If
it is necessary to pass by when people are
lined up in seiza facing the shomen, walk
behind them rather than in front.
- After
the instructor demonstrates a technique, students
bow, choose partners quickly, and begin to
practise. When the end of a particular practice
is signaled (often with two claps), students
should stop practice immediately, bow to their
partners, and quickly line up in seiza for
further instruction.
- For
reasons of safety, respect, and courtesy,
it is essential that the teachers' instructions
be followed exactly. Many Aikido techniques
can be dangerous if not practised properly.
Emphasis should be placed on learning as much
as possible through intent observation and
concentrated practice, and questions should
be saved for when they are really necessary.
- Gis
should be kept clean, and fingernails and
toenails should be kept short. No jewelry
should be worn during practice. Do not use
alcohol or drugs before class.
- The
mat should be swept before each class. It
is the student's responsibility to keep the
dojo clean. Dojo literally means
"place of the way". It should be a place for
misogi (purification) and for our
sincere personal work.
Observation of these forms of etiquette will
help to create a good atmosphere in the dojo.
But more important than the superficial observation
of any form is the sincere and open-hearted
attitude toward training which gives meaning
to the forms.
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