How We Practice Misogi

 Misogi, originates from the Shinto religion, and means "to go to the river and cleanse oneself". It is a type of purification ceremony. Its purpose is to unify mind and body.  In Aikido it is used for certain breathing and meditation exercise through which a student may reach the most powerful state. 

The basics of formal misogi are sitting on the mat in seiza (kneeling), chanting, ringing of the suzu (bell), and controlled breathing. When performing misogi, the sound of the voice and the sound of the bell must be unified, with the student giving full exertion to each sound, with each ring of the suzu. The chanter loudly pronounces eight syllables, "TOHO KAMI EMI TAMI", keeping pace with the suzu. 

A misogi session may incorporate kokyu ho (breathing exercise), and also kenkyu ho (sword training) in which participants utter kiai (a sharp shout) while striking with bokken (wooden sword). 

A misogi session may take anywhere from 30 minutes to 90 minutes. Most non-Japanese not accustomed to sitting seiza, or persons with knee problems, will find the position painful. If the pain is acute, it is better to change position, sitting with the legs crossed, or in the case of the latter, just sit cross legged from the start. The most important thing is to be relaxed, and hold the torso erect to facilitate breathing. A cushion can be used to help. Otherwise, misogi can be practiced while seated in a chair or standing.