Sumo wrestlers' rituals fuse sport and spirit
Sumo wrestlers uphold centuries-old morning rituals, blending grueling physical training with spiritual traditions, preserving a vital piece of Japanese cultural heritage and fostering immense strength.
Sumo wrestlers, known as rikishi, begin their days with rigorous morning training rituals, called asageiko, that date back to ancient Japan. These sessions, starting around 5 a.m. and lasting up to six hours, combine intense physical training with spiritual purification. Wrestlers perform symbolic acts like throwing salt to ward off evil spirits and stomping the earth to drive away demons.
Continue Reading in App
1 more paragraph · plus a 3-question quiz