Why do Japanese kneel to open doors?

Why do Japanese kneel to open doors? The skills of opening and closing a sliding Japanese door are a part of reishiki, “proper form,” or “etiquette.” The ability to move in a balanced and graceful way by sliding one’s knees on the floor is a specific aspect of this form, this mastery of the self that allows us to get along with others and to present

The skills of opening and closing a sliding Japanese door are a part of reishiki, “proper form,” or “etiquette.” The ability to move in a balanced and graceful way by sliding one’s knees on the floor is a specific aspect of this form, this mastery of the self that allows us to get along with others and to present