Miyamoto Musashi was a ronin samurai, born circa 1584, in the Mimasaka province of Japan. From an early age, he was taught to wield a sword and went on to become a master swordsmith. It is believed that he had over 60 duels from the age of 13 and never succumbed to the challenge.

Throughout his life, he ventured throughout Japan in search of self-improvement and knowledge around the art of war, strategy, the ability to master the sword, and become a great warrior - "to know ten thousand things, know one well."

Although predominantly known as a fierce samurai throughout Japan, he was also a great artist, writer, and philosopher. He went on to produce two significant books: "The Five Rings" and "Dokkodo” - 21 principles.

"The Five Rings" encompasses five elements - earth, water, fire, wind, and void.

Earth - maintaining a solid foundation, staying grounded, understanding that the ground beneath you can always move under your feet, and staying prepared.

Water - adapting to our surroundings, flowing and transforming in the world around us. By maintaining a flowing state, we can prevent stagnation and have a strong ability to overcome challenges.

Fire - passion, energy, determination, and the commitment to moving forward in search of igniting our spirit.

Wind - maintaining awareness of the changing winds. Winds can carry storms, and we must prepare to be blown off course.

Void - The void represents the state of mind where everything is possible, transcending the confines of the voice inside our head. Allowing ourselves to be free from preconceived ideas portrayed in society or attachments. Allowing ourselves to be creative and traverse through life.

By mastering these five elements, Musashi believes that one can achieve excellence and success in any area of life.

Miyamoto's teachings are vast, deep, profound, and real. He promotes understanding oneself, incorporation of deep reflection, self-development and discovery, and a never-ending search for improvement. He lived a life of virtue, respect, honour, purpose, discipline, and meaning.

"Think lightly of yourself and think deeply of the world.

"There is nothing outside of yourself that can ever make you better, stronger, richer, quicker, or smarter. Everything is within."

"All men are the same except for the belief in their own selves, regardless of what others may think of them."

Miyamoto Musashi was an incredible philosopher, and his perspective on life, meaning, and the world has been passed down through the ages. I find his work profound, and I believe his lessons can contribute strongly in the search for happiness.

Thanks,

Dean