Kyudo, the Way of the Bow, is one of the oldest arts of the Japanese tradition of contemplative warriorship. The practice of kyudo begins with first shot and the cultivation of beginner's heart.

This day-long program will provide training in Kyudo's Seven Coordinations, shichi-do, the basic form for aligning the body and properly releasing the arrow. Working with the precision of the form, a natural process gradually unfolds through which the practitioner has the opportunity to see the mind more clearly. The target becomes a mirror which reflects the qualities of heart and mind at the moment of the arrow's release. This distinguishes kyudo from archery where simply hitting the target is the goal.

All are welcome, regardless of age, gender, or physical strength. Children should be at least nine years of age. All equipment will be provided.

Please register ASAP as it help us plan for materials and space: https://burlington.shambhala.org/program-details/?id=366479

About the Teachers

Grace DiNapoli is the program director and instructor of Seiko Kyudojo. She offers First Shot for those enrolled in the Mukpo Institute and is often found offering kyudo demonstrations and talks at Shambhala programs at Karmê Chöling.

Tom Kyle is the instructor at Breathing Mind Kyudojo in Barre, Vermont. Tom is an arrow maker and has recently begun making yumi, kyudo bows. Together, Grace and Tom have taught First Shot at Karmê Chöling, Zen Mountain Monastery, and other locations in Vermont.