Being clean

Every few months we have a Dojo clean up. We then get to tidy up and fix stuff that does not get done during our daily clean up routine. Yesterday, again, we gathered to create a practice space that is clear, bright and uncluttered.
Being clean starts with ourselves and applies to our living space and our environment, our work and our relationships.

The dojo presents an opportunity to teach us about being clean. We first have to keep our bodies clean, and especially our feet. We wear a clean Gi (uniform), keep our fingernails and toenails trimmed short, and make sure our body is free of offensive odors. Some students choose to brush their teeth before class, and some take a shower, especially if they sweat a lot during their workday.

The same attitude is translated to caring for the Dojo; we pick up after ourselves, take a second look before leaving the restrooms, washing our drinking cups, and making sure we are training on a clean mat. We train to have awareness and pay attention.

Our thoughts need to be pure, as well, to allow a clear practice. Our thoughts manifest into our actions, attitudes and behavior patters. There is this great quote that teaches us about this:
“Watch your thoughts, for they become words.
Watch your words, for they become actions.
Watch your actions, for they become habits.
Watch your habits, for they become character.
Watch your character, for it becomes your destiny.”

Cleaning is the action of reducing; less clutter, less mess, less dirt, less stuff. As in Aikido, it is not a one-time deal, it is an ongoing process, a life practice. We get a chance doing this work without negative thoughts or feelings; without bitterness, jealousy, self victimizing and such. This work connects us to ourselves and our practice space in a clean and deep way. As it is in our practice — we are never done. We are forever cleaning.