In order to practice in the manner of Shugyo, one needs a strong, stable foundation. This is typically established through the regular practice of yoga (procedures used to strengthen and purify the physical body, clarify and nurture the energy body, and reveal and increase awareness of the spiritual body). Keep in mind, the term yoga is used here in the broadest, traditional sense. The yogi will train the body/mind on a regular basis, sometimes in retreat, often as part of a daily routine. A complete yoga practice may include aspects of Aryuveda, Qigong, yoga-asana, pranayama, Tantra, and of course, meditation. Needless to say, yoga practice is sufficient in and of itself to condition and fortify the practitioner without any other practices. For the Zen-Budo practitioner it is typically a component of training that also includes Zazen, martial arts, Zen lifestyle routines, and perhaps artistic expression (music, poetry, sculpture, calligraphy).
In this current period of quarantine and lockdown, social distancing, and virtual sangha, most practitioners are prevented from or at least limited in group practices typical of Shugyo intensity. Therefore the time is ripe for yoga. This is the time to build one's foundation, keeping in mind it may be tested unexpectedly through the many challenges, physical and/or economic that we all face in this environment. One doesn't need to sit in sesshin or spar with a partner to be challenged. Coronavirus and economic upset are enough.