Steven Stegal "The Lawman".....

I watched last Wed the "The Lawman". Wow, Aikido does really work in the real world. I knew it did but cool to see it for real. Steven has been a sheriff for 20 years. Now I understand why there has not been any new movies. The gun is an extension just like the broken........ cool

Training when injured...

It's so hard to know if it's okay to train when hurt. Our bodies tell us one thing while our minds tell us the truth. Or is it the other way. I am currently injuired with 2 bad knees. I will need surgery on one of them. My body told me not to train a few weeks ago . It was just impossible and unsafe. As time passed by, my mind is telling me that I can train but within reason.

The eyes...

Next time during an attack, watch the uke eyes. It's a dead give away when the attack is going to happen. Take a look and you will understand....

different kind of control

By relaxing during an attack, we are controlling our self. We relax, center your one point and then blend with the attack. You essentially need to control yourself so that you can control the attack. If you are not relaxed, you will not be able to control the attacker. It's a very interesting point to consider...

Kids in class

We have some young kids taking Aikido. I think it helps the experienced students in understanding the details of moves. The kids benefit too from the in-depth instruction. You need to visulaize the move before explaining it. We have the kids until September. Time will tell...

Being soft....

Why is it so difficult to be soft? My sensei mentioned to us that "don't wait until you are 80 to be soft". He is right. Being soft with ki, it is so perfect. I hope I will achieve it before I turn 80. He did show us the difference. It is truely amazing...

Sensei Tohei

I have read many articles and books about Sensei Tohei. I did some amazing things and was very good. He helped spread "ki" and aikido in the USA. My sensei trained under him in NY for many years. He stills tells us many stories about Sensei Tohei. It seems aikido has changed since Sensei Tohei taught it. Some people (our dojo) still do it as it was taught to my sensei. I guess the 60s weren't taht long ago...

How many moves are there

It very hard to calculate the number of techniques. It depends upon the person attacking, location of attack and nage mood. It's like a math equation...

Keep it simple...

I am starting to believe in the concept of keeping it simple. Basic moves done well should be enough to protect yourself. I am starting to believe that doing lots of techniques good is not as good as doing a few perfect...

KI and email...again

I was sent an email. This women was very negative in her comments. I responded positively to her. I knew she would change her mind. The benefits of using positive KI.

Kids and Aikido

Kids bring another aspect to training. You must be very soft and detailed when explaining Aikido moves. I think it helps in being a better martial artist. I guess time we tell....

Snow/Ice and driving...

It's a good thing I have my one point. I am so much more relaxed during bad weather. It really pays to be relaxed in general. You seem to be able to make better decisions in all aspects of life....