Mushin

There’s a word in Japanese: 無心 (mushin).

It means “no mind” or “empty mind.”

But that doesn’t mean blank or thoughtless. It’s not emptiness in the way we might think of absence or lack. It’s more like stillness. Readiness. Presence. A mind so clear that nothing sticks—thoughts come and go, feelings arise and pass, but none of it clings. It’s the space that allows instinct, training, and spirit to move through unimpeded.

In martial arts, mushin is essential. If you hesitate—if you cling to fear or pride or overthinking—you lose your timing. Your center falters. But if your mind is open, you flow with the moment. You respond, not from ego, but from awareness.

When I painted this piece, I tried to enter that same state.

No plan. No second-guessing. Just breath, brush, paper.

I don’t think I “created” this one so much as I stepped aside and let it come through. The seal at the bottom—明—means “clarity” or “bright.” I chose it not because I feel I’ve mastered mushin, but because I am trying to live there more often. To trust the clarity beneath all thought.

This is the start of my calligraphy journal.

Thank you for walking with me.

—Saria

静心