The Five Bows

The Five Bows are principles from martial arts, especially Japanese traditions, that guide respectful and disciplined behavior. They include bows before and after practice to show gratitude and humility, respecting teachers and peers, maintaining a respectful attitude during training, and showing courtesy to others outside the dojo. These bows promote etiquette, humility, and mutual respect, fostering a positive learning environment. Essentially, they serve as physical expressions of the values of humility, respect, and mindfulness that underpin martial arts practice, extending their importance beyond fighting to everyday interactions.