“First, learn, then detach, and finally transcend.”
Shu
Obey
Protect
Ha
Detach
Digress
Ri
Leave
Separate
Shu
The first stage is where the student learns the fundamentals and basic techniques. The kanji for shu means “protect” or “obey”.
Learn the Techniques
Ha
The second stage is where the student begins to break with tradition and explore more freely. The kanji for ha means “detach” or “digress.”
Practice the Techniques
Ri
The final stage, where the student becomes more creative and departs from the forms. The kanji for ri means “leave” or “separate”