Shu-Ha-Ri 守破離

Shu-Ha-Ri is a Japanese martial art concept which describes the stages of learning to mastery. It can be generously applied to other disciplines.

• Shu - Follow the Rules
• Ha - Break the Rules
• Ri - Make the Rules

Shu - We repeat the forms and discipline ourselves so that our bodies absorb the forms that our forebears created. We remain faithful to these norms with no deviation.

Ha - Once we have disciplined ourselves to acquire the forms and movements, we make innovations. In this process the forms maybe broken and discarded.

Ri - We completely depart from the forms, open the door to creative technique, and arrive in a place where we act in accordance with what our heart and mind desires, unhindered while not overstepping laws.