The ultimate aim for both Taoist and Buddhist monks was to make their philosophies a way of life, something that permeates every aspect of their existence, every moment, every action. This desire to always be at one with an ever-changing universe is more akin to ‘walking a path’ rather than standing still. A bit like riding a bike, it required constant adjustment to stay on balance.

However, Do is a mental and spiritual balancing act rather than a physical one. So one useful way of looking at Do is as an ‘approach’. Someone with the right approach to training will usually succeed, irrespective of the particular trials and tribulations they face. This approach to training, and to life, is something a good Sensei will try to cultivate in students.