Herrigel argues that true skill in archery is reached not by adding technique but by relinquishing the conscious intention to hit the target; the shot must 'loose itself' without the archer's ego willing it. Deliberate effort and self-observation actively obstruct the result they aim for.
To prove that aiming is not the point, the master shot two arrows in total darkness at a distant target; the first hit the bullseye and the second split the first arrow's shaft. He insisted it was not 'he' who shot but 'It', demonstrating that right action comes from a trained non-intending state rather than visual calculation.
Herrigel spent years learning to draw the bow 'spiritually,' holding maximum tension at full draw while remaining completely relaxed, letting the release happen on an exhaled breath like snow sliding off a leaf. The loose must come as a reflex outside conscious timing, not as a decided act.
The master teaches by repetition and demonstration rather than explanation, expecting the student to spend years on a single element until understanding arrives bodily rather than intellectually. Herrigel frames this as learning that cannot be shortcut by analysis; the Western demand for reasons is itself an obstacle.