In the martial arts, it is commonly thought that one should only be “creative” after a certain level of training. In Japanese traditional arts, it is believed that there are three levels of learning referred to as shuhari (守破離). Shu is the beginning stage where gross or rote learning occurs. In this stage things are memorized exactly as they are with no variation. Ha means “to break” and thus the things we learned in the Shu stage are broken down into their fine points. This stage is where we attempt to understand rather than memorize. Ri is the final stage where we transcend or leave the form. This is the final stage of mastery where most think creativity lies. I would posit that all levels of learning have creativity but just in different contexts. In the Shu and Ha stages, we are not supposed to be “creative” with the form, but we can be creative with our approach as to how we memorize and understand the form. However, with that being said, we still have to manage how much creativity or freedom we apply when approaching the black and whiteness of form. The words nyoijizai (如意自在 ) and jiyuujizai (自由自在) both can be used to mean “free” or “to do as one pleases” but they also can be read as “to be in complete control.” Thus, when we are doing as we please or are being free, we must still be in control or aware of the boundaries of propriety. When I was a student, there was a senior who was really innovative with his approach to learning. After Furuya Sensei would point out a mistake in his movement, he was really good at figuring out a way to fix it. For instance, Sensei pointed out that while cutting he would drop the tip at the top of the cut. So he rigged up a wire at the exact height where he dropped the tip. If he dropped the tip, then the sword would hit the wire and make twang. He then trained his muscle memory while doing suburi or “cutting practice” to not hit the wire. He didn’t change then form. He just creatively came up with a way to memorize a detail in the form. The form is black or white and must be memorized exactly, but that doesn’t mean that we should limit our creativity around learning that form. Be creative but just in the right way and in the right context.
Today’s goal: How can you find a way around what is in your way today?
Watch this week’s episode of the Aiki Dojo Podcast: The Role of Creativity in Aikido