The concept of Shu-Ha-Ri (守破離) ... Tao of Tea, or Karate

The concept of Shu-ha-ri was developed in “the Dou/Tao of Tea” in Japan, which is translated to “Tea Ceremony”, but the ceremony itself is what you see as a result of the process to perfection the way of entertaining people by providing a perfectly refined quality tea. This concept has been widely accepted and acquired in a different type of arts like Martial Arts, Flower Arrangements, Traditional Dances, etc.

·       Shu (守) means “follow the established rules” This is a learning phase to learn from an instructor/sensei/master who has practiced the arts for a quite long time.

·       Ha (破)  meaning "Trying to break what you learned.” This is the stage to try to see what you learned from different viewpoints, objectively and critically. This is the next step to understanding the core or essence of what you learned in depth.

·       Ri or Li (離) meaning "leave", or "separate from" This is the stage that allows you to move naturally, all of the core fundamentals are hummer in your body already. This level is actually the master level of accomplishment in the Dou/Tao.

 

This type of explanation sounds like a linear process, but actually, these 3 stages need to be repeated cyclically to maintain the level of master.

From the viewpoint of Karate, or Martial Arts,

to maintain the master level, we have another concept called Shin-Gi-Tai

·       Shin (心) meaning “mind” and “heart”, or “Spirit”.  Without having a fighting spirit, we cannot beat the opponents. …> continuous Mental Training is required.

·       Gi (技)  meaning "Techniques”. The technique is how to use our entire body, such as muscle, bones, nerves, organs, and skin. …> continuous Physical Training is required.

·       Tai (体) means " Physique in healthy condition". If you are sick, even if your body has been trained, you cannot beat the opponents. …> Healthy eating habits, learning how to maintain immune systems, etc. are required.

Based on my Martial Arts experience of over 10+ years especially in Karate, I noticed the importance of “Ha” of Shu-Ha-Ri, still, I have a long way to go to reach Ri-level.

Good luck and Keep practicing!