Kyudo

Hitting the target is not the primary goal. Kyudo is a mirror of the soul, challenging you to rise above basic desires and emotions, such as the hope of striking the target flawlessly and the fear of failing to do so. This shows a beautiful paradox that can be regarded as a Zen koan: a philosophical challenge expressed as an apparently unsolvable question: “How can I reach the target without hitting the target?”

It is about laying down the ego, purifying the mind, and expressing an open heart.

Schellinkhout & Amsterdam. Fujifilm GA645wi using Ilford XP2 120mm film.