Red Samurai

It’s official…!

In karate, "mokuso" is a term used to refer to a specific type of meditation practiced at the beginning and/or end of a training session. It is a Japanese term that can be translated as "meditation" or "silent thought." The purpose of mokuso is to help practitioners focus their minds, calm their thoughts, and prepare themselves mentally for training or to reflect on their practice afterward.

During mokuso, karateka (karate practitioners) typically sit in a seiza position (kneeling with the buttocks resting on the heels) with their eyes closed. They focus on their breathing, allowing their minds to become still and their bodies to relax. Mokuso serves as a way to transition from the external world to a more internal state of awareness, helping practitioners to concentrate on their training and cultivate a sense of mindfulness.

While the specific instructions and duration of mokuso may vary among different karate styles and instructors, the fundamental purpose remains the same—to achieve a state of mental clarity and prepare oneself for training or reflection.