Zen has a strong link to the martial culture of Japan. Both the warrior culture and zen discipline emphasize the impermanence of life and teach us to be present in the moment, here and now.​

Ultimately, a warrior wages war against him/herself in an attempt to shed his/her numerous delusions, and to become unconditionally present. Zen is a non-intellectual practice; through sitting it is possible to see one's true nature.​

At Brooklyn Aikikai we have several periods of meditation each week.