Zen has a strong link to the martial culture of Japan. Both the warrior culture and Zen discipline emphasize the impermanence of life and teach us to be present in this moment, here and now.

Warriors, both past and present, find use in the practice of zazen, particularly in battle where one has to be unconditionally present. Zen is a non-intellectual practice; through sitting many years, it is possible to see one's true nature.

At Brooklyn Aikikai we have several periods of meditation each week. For those who wish to deepen their practice, the chief instructor encourages studying with Zen master Eido T. Shimano Roshi, of Dai Bosatsu Zendo.