Dohyo
What is Dohyo?
A "dohyo" is the ring or platform where sumo wrestling matches take place. It is typically made of a special kind of clay and covered with a layer of sand. The dohyo is circular and has a diameter of about 4.55 meters (approximately 15 feet). The boundaries of the ring are marked by rice-straw bales that are buried in the clay. The dohyo is considered a sacred space, and various rituals are performed to purify it before matches. Sumo wrestlers, or rikishi, compete within this ring, and the objective is to force the opponent out of the ring or to make any part of their body other than the soles of their feet touch the ground.
Related Article: Sumo Wrestling: The Traditional Japanese Combat Sport
I believe we must pursue mastery for who we become along the way in its achievement. When we progress in Jiu Jitsu, that newfound experience and wisdom transcends into all areas of our lives. We use Jiu Jitsu as the vehicle for growth, but that growth radiates over all of human activity. Someone who devotes time and energy in learning this skill is learning far more than how to subdue an opponent. The student learns persistence, perseverance, pattern recognition, problem solving, and most importantly, learning how to learn. In the arena of life, these virtues are far more valuable than any guard pass.
Chris Matakas