More on etiquette

I noticed that we're slipping somewhat with regards to etiquette lately. Some folks just walk on to the mat if they are late, without waiting for sensei (although they are new, so this is especially for them); some folks give a half-hearted or no bow when receiving instruction from sensei; and some folks use an abbreviated gassho in place of a bow.

Dojo etiquette provides a sharp division between the outside world, and the mat, where we need to shed our tasks and concerns of the day, and be fully present for training. On crossing the physical threshold to the dojo, you bow, and leave all that outside world stuff outside, and focus your mind on what you are doing here and now. This ritual of bowing on entry provides a distinction between the two spaces. When you train, it's important to bring an intensity and precision to your practice. Don't come and be sloppy, floppy, or lazy.  Cultivate the mindset that this is a life or death situation. This intensity includes handwork, footwork, and also etiquette.

Bowing
Malory Sensei has talked a lot about the proper way to bow, and it's very important to remember her instruction, and not to rush or take a shortcut.

When bowing from seiza, place your left hand, fingers together, on the mat first, then place your right hand on the mat, and form a triangle with your closed fingers and thumbs. This is important from a martial standpoint, because your right hand would still be available to draw your sword, if needed. Your eyes should go to the floor when bowing to the kamiza and to sensei. However, if you are in a situation where you are training, it might be appropriate to keep your eyes on your uke. Again, do not take a shortcut.

A proper standing or seated bow is from the point of the hip. The back is not rounded. When standing, the arms and hands should be at your side, and again, the back should be straight.

If you are bowing to someone of a higher rank, wait for them to lift their head before you lift yours, and always go to their level. If they are sitting, you should sit as well.

Bow when entering or leaving the dojo, bow when stepping onto or leaving the mat, and bow when Sensei gives you instruction, feedback, or comments. Bow even if you think she's not looking and it won't matter. It does.

If you arrive late, and the bowing-in has not begun, quickly get in line and get settled. If the bowing-in has already occurred, wait quietly in seiza until Sensei gestures to you that it's ok to get on the mat. Only then should you get on the mat. Again, bow when you get on.

Bring all your attention and precision to the mat. If you are not sure what to do, watch the senior students. You can learn a lot by being hyper-observant.

Here are some other things to keep in mind:

• Never lie on the mat (unless it's part of a specific stretch before class, or you are told to)
• Never lean against a wall (even if you are not training)
• Never stand with your arms folded or your hands in the side splits of your hakama
• Never point the bottom of your feet to Sensei or the kamiza (don't sit with your legs splayed out)

Edit: One additional item I left out. When Sensei ends her demonstration, and everyone pairs up, find someone very quickly — anyone. Don't stand around looking lost or confused. It's important not to mill around, but to get down to practice quickly. When you hear Sensei clap, quickly run and sit down. If you are called for ukemi, quickly run. Don't amble up in a leisurely fashion. This is all part of developing martial awareness.