CHANGES

2018 rapidly comes to a close. Looking back, this has been a transformative year.  Thanks to new leadership and new ideas, Portland Aikikai found a new home, became a non-profit organization, and elected a board of directors. These are all positive changes: growth. Growth is a powerful metaphor. We grow from children to adults. Expanding skills andContinue reading “CHANGES”

KIHON – IKKYO AND NIKKYO

It has taken the entire year for me to actually start a more systematic presentation of the kihon waza, which was my goal in January. And so it goes. Ikkyo through yonkyo – the first through fourth techniques. Gyakuhanmi katatedori sets up the encounter. We focus on nage and the count. The geometry of the footwork needsContinue reading “KIHON – IKKYO AND NIKKYO”

FLOW SEQUENCE

Update: create flow with neurostimulation – Radiolab 9-Volt Nirvana Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi’s concept of flow is a good short-hand for what we should experience in moments of optimal performance. Moving-zen where the self dissolves. Aikido as an art aspires to the demonstration of effortless power – a visual presentation of flow. Resist teaching to the goal rather thanContinue reading “FLOW SEQUENCE”