Fudoshin is a large element of Budo and your Aikido or Martial Art training as it represents a mind that is totally at peace, in every situation no matter what pressures you are up against. You are like a willow tree, powerful roots deep in the ground and a soft, yielding resistance against the winds that blow through it.
Fudoshin is a mind filled with courage and determination. There is no fear in the immovable mind; it is in a state of complete composure and peace, it is a state of having an unwavering will, a spirit undeterred by the obstacles that lie ahead. It is a state allowing you to face fear, danger, and even death with a calm and controlled spirit.
We can train to achieve Fudoshin every day inside and outside the dojo, as we train to perfect ourselves, our techniques and our character that creates us as people. You must remain steadfast and serve as a beacon for others, like a lighthouse guiding others along the way, only then will you find true balance in your spirit, mind and body, and develop the immovable mind.
“When an opponent comes forward, move in and greet him; if he wants to pull back, send him on his way."
Morihei Ueshiba
Aikido Mentality Series Ep.1 - Shoshin – Beginner’s Mind
Aikido Mentality Series Ep.2 - Mushin – No Mind
Aikido Mentality Series Ep.4 - Senshin – Enlightened Mind
Aikido Mentality Series Ep.5 - Zanshin – Lingering awareness of the Mind