Join us for a weekend of swordsmanship and Zen training, exploring the intersection of martial arts and Zen practice. This unique seminar introduces the Hojo kata, a series of sword forms from the Kashima Shinden Jikishinkage-ryu school of Japanese swordsmanship.

The objective of Hojo is to cut all the habits one has acquired since birth so that one may return to the original self. Attention is focused on the Kiai, which emulates the four seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter.

Through the practice of Hojo, we will explore how martial arts and Zen training inform and deepen one another. The seminar will include training with wooden swords and seated Zen meditation (zazen), emphasizing the cultivation of samadhi (state of relaxed concentration).

This training is organized in collaboration with Rhode Island Zen Dojo and Chosei Zen, a vibrant community dedicated to rigorous training in the traditional forms of Rinzai Zen, martial arts, and fine arts.

The seminar will be led by Scott Koun Kiel Roshi, a Zen master in the Chosei Zen lineage of Rinzai Zen and head priest of Daikozen-ji Zen Temple in Madison, Wisconsin.

All are welcome. Training is open to participants of all skill and experience levels.

Tentative Schedule:

Friday - July 9th - 6 pm - 8 pm 

Saturday - July 10th - 10 am - 1 pm (morning session) 2 pm - 5 pm (afternoon session) 

Sunday - July 11th - 9 am - 1 pm