Since 2001, we have been practicing Aikido in a different way...a way to study ourselves. This training is focused on keeping the mind still. When the mind is still we can be present in each moment. Being present is the key to respecting ourselves and others. Carlos Casteneda wrote, "the warrior lowers his head to no one, but at the same time, he doesn't permit anyone to lower his head to him." The only thing we can control in the World is ourselves. Any thought that we can influence someone else is a distraction from our true power. As the Bhagavadgita warns us, "If the mind submits to the play of the senses, they will drive out insight." Our practice is to seek this insight.
Though you will find most Aikido practice based on how to throw someone to the ground, we have a different approach - to see how our thoughts and feelings affect our actions. When you increase your ability to watch yourself you become more able to respond differently, especially in stressful situations. This type of freedom provides you with options rather than a trained response. The Founder said that true victory is victory over oneself and we devote our practice to this statement. Another Way Aikido is based on the experiences of Henry Kono (1927-2016), a student of the Founder of Aikido. Henry had the unique experience of working with certain older students who trained in a way that was not focused on throwing or controlling another person. They would just move with you no matter what you did. Henry described them as being so light you couldn't do anything to them. When Henry moved back to North America he found no one was practicing this way. Joe spent 18 years studying this other way with Henry to preserve this essence of Aikido. This is an individualised practice that moves at your own pace. Wear loose clothing and prepare to explore your own movement. Come join us anytime! . |
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Past Seminars
Dublin, Ireland Leiden, the Netherlands Orlando, Florida Another Way Aikido
Ithaca, NY |