An Enso is a traditional Japanese symbol, closely associated with philosophy, and in particular with Zen. On the face of it, it is a circle, depicting the circle of life. But it is not quite a circle: the Enso never closes, symbolising life's imperfections and incompleteness.

Our Enso group of arts use the study of traditional weapons to take us beyond fighting, to gain an insight into ourselves, and perhaps beyond that. These weapons arts are supported by, and suffused with, insight into and study of East Asian philosophies and understandings.

Ensodo is a weapons art, but still also a practical self defence art which blends Tai Chi, Bujutsu and practical self defence for older students. Iaido uses the traditional Japanese sword to gain an insight into the Zen mind. Bujutsu informs all of these with knowledge of traditional East Asian martial weapons. Zendo gathers together and shares the underpinning philosophies, understandings, and practices.

Belts are not the aim here. We are not interested in a macho race for grades, based not on understanding but sporting prowess.

Stll, we do understand that for some who come to our arts without such misconceptions, the achievement of grades can be a useful marker on their much bigger journey. So Ensodo and Iaido do offer opportunities to progress through grades to Shodan and beyond, for those who want to make that a part of their path. Grades are normally awarded by ongoing assessment, and there is no grading fee.

The Teaching of Enso Arts

In LCTKD's regular classes, we see the Enso arts as collaborative arts. They share time and space with each other, and the students learn from each other's insights. So you can be a student of Iaido, for example, but in your sessions alongside your own study you might find others studying other weapons than the sword. That might inspire you to share understanding, techniques and perspectives, or you might be happy to stick to what you do whilst sharing the friendship of people training around you with the same dedication.