Iaido is the traditional art of the Japanese sword. More literally, "the way of drawing the sword." It is a fine art with deep Zen connections. Calm, meditative, and challenging in its detail and precision.

We teach Ikikai Iaido. I-ki-kai ("ee-key-kye") means the school where your ki (qi or chi in Chinese) flows in harmony with nature. This is a philosophical form of Iaido, based upon techniques and kata from ancient Ryu (schools), taught in a very traditional way, from a perspective that creates a flowing harmony. It emphasises technique over power, calmness over aggression. It is contemplative, flowing, and yet always precise, and is easy to adapt for students of different ages, with many students well beyond retirement age.

The term Ikikai comes from the same root as the modern Japanese term Ikigai, "giving your life purpose." Ikigai has been taken up in the world of positive psychology, where the concept of Flow originated. The connection between the two is not intentional, but it's a nice coincidence.

Like most things Zen inspired, you need to do Iaido to appreciate just how far it takes you away from the quotidien life. It is learnt in the friendly, supportive and fun atmosphere of our Enso sessions. We invite you to come and experience it with us.