Today's Guest

Bjørn Aris - Netherlands (1965). Entrepreneur, global management trainer, published author, ex investment banker and Japanese swordsmanship instructor, Aris is wellacquainted with the business world and has more than 35 years of experience in martial arts and Zen philosophy.

After 12 years of experience as an investment banker and a successful career as an entrepreneur, he decided to deepen his knowledge in mindfulness, human behaviour and the differences of thought between Western and Eastern cultures.

With the goal of increasing the efficiency and creativity of employees, he created the Mental Bridging © training programme, effectively fusing Oriental wisdom with Occidental knowledge. Scientifically validated by academic research in 2007 and 2012, it received an innovation award in 2013.

Nowadays Aris works as a consultant, training and coaching employees in the middle and higher segment of businesses and organizations, assisting them in their search for a deeper and clearer understanding of their challenges, providing them with the tools to facilitate the fulfillment of their objectives.

Since 2000 Bjørn has inspired more than ten thousand leaders and employees in the corporate world through his lectures and courses, inspiring and guiding them to achieve an exceptional, balanced and continuous work performance, along with greater personal well-being, contributing to the creation of a positive and stress free work environment as well.

How to get in touch:

• Website: http://www.bjornaris.com/
• Business Website: http://www.returnonpeople.nl/
• Email: bjornaris@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bjornaris/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bjornaris/
• Twitter: twitter.com/bjornaris
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCuttingEdgeBjornAris/

In this episode, Bjørn Aris, a practitioner and teacher of samurai swordsmanship with over 40 years of experience. Bjørn shares his journey from investment banking to discovering the transformative power of this ancient martial art, which he describes as "Zen in action."

Bjørn explains how samurai swordsmanship, or Iaido, is more than just a martial art—it's a way of life that promotes personal growth, self-awareness, and healing. He discusses the concept of "kata," pre-arranged forms that serve as a framework for deeper exploration of oneself. Through consistent practice, Bjørn reveals how this discipline can lead to a profound sense of freedom, richness, and connection with one's body and intuition.

The conversation delves into the importance of discipline, the power of intuition, and the transformative nature of facing one's fears and traumas through practice. Bjørn also touches on how he's translated the wisdom of swordsmanship into practical teachings for businesses and individuals, emphasizing the universal nature of these principles across cultures.

Throughout the episode, Bjørn shares personal anecdotes and insights, offering listeners a glimpse into the profound impact that dedicating oneself to a practice can have on one's life. He encourages listeners to trust in themselves, not in who they think they are, but in who they truly are. 

• Samurai swordsmanship (Iaido) is a way of life that promotes personal growth and healing.
• Consistent practice of swordsmanship can lead to a deeper connection with one's body and intuition.
• The concept of "kata" provides a structured framework for self-exploration and growth.
• Discipline is key in any practice aimed at personal development.
• Facing and working through fears and traumas is an essential part of the healing process.
• The principles of swordsmanship can be applied to business and personal life.
• True freedom and richness come from within, not from external possessions or achievements.