The Art of Kangeiko

As winter settles into Japan, it’s tempting to just cozy up under the kotatsu and ride out the weather. With harsh winds and shorter days, retreating indoors becomes the norm for many. Yet, for some, these cold days become an invitation to seek change in a pursuit of mental resilience. https://japanobjects.com/features/kotatsu Kangeiko (寒稽古), in Japanese, refers to the traditional practice of winter training. This custom is commonly observed in martial arts, particularly disciplines like judo, kendo, and aikido. Kangeiko typically takes place during the coldest months of winter, to challenge one’s dedication and endurance.   https://kentsurudojo.de/?p=879 http://karatedo-yushinmon.com/english/events/kangeiko.html Those practicing Kangeiko begin in the early morning hours as the sun is […]

How to Learn Japanese for your Learning Style

Which learning style do you have, and how should you study Japanese? Not everyone learns the same. Some people learn best by listening to explanations, others need to read something to internalise it, while others are “doers”. With our different learning styles, it’s not a surprise that learning Japanese is also different for everyone. What works for one person may not work for another. It’s important to understand what your learning style is so that you can use effective study techniques. What are the main learning styles? Visual Learners: Visual learners prefer to learn through visual aids such as charts, graphs, diagrams, and videos. They tend to grasp information better […]