The Way of the Samurai Women

Who were the samurai women, and what might samurai spirit look like today? When Rimika's mother Akemi Tanaka died in 2021, she decided to continue the work her mother had started, finding out more about their samurai heritage. She embarked on a journey to put into practice what she learned along the way about samurai women to help her live more fully today. In recent times, samurai have been made famous by movies, manga, video games, even fashion. They have somewhat become macho icons but that's only part of the story. Some samurai, particularly those who remained steadfast in the clan household, were women. Some were even warriors. In this book, Rimika explores how we, today, can reclaim their ancient wisdom - much of it held in the philosophical tradition of Zen Buddhism - for our times and in a more inclusive and holistic way. Readers will discover the inspirational example of historical samurai women, alongside contemporary Japanese women who possess the samurai spirit. The book delves into concepts which allowed the samurai to survive and thrive: nature worship, mindful movement and performing the ideal self. Along the way, it offers prompts and exercises to help the reader channel the wisdom of legendary samurai women.

Rimika Tanaka is a writer and researcher who works in the performing arts. She is currently based at a dance conservatoire in London with the mission to widen access and participation in ballet and contemporary dance.