February 11, 2025
There is no target, only now.
There is no thought, only my soul.
With pure heart, I could close my eyes,
And I know my aim will be true.
I silence the thoughts in my head,
And slow my heart rate with deep breaths.
I aim just above my target,
And place my fingers on the string…
I stretch my back to draw the bow,
My aim settles upon the gold.
I calm and watch my heartbeat dance,
Rhythmic, moving the arrow’s point.
Then wait for the lull between beats,
And, “click,” the string flies from my hand.
Motionless ’til the arrow strikes,
Unseen, I know my aim is true.
zanshin is a state of relaxed alertness often referred to in Japanese archery.