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....

Learning from less expereienced students...

Sometimes even an experienced student can learn from less experienced students. When you are trying to perfect a technique and can't, practicing it with less experienced students will help in figuring out those fine points. I think we break down the technique more and analyze it more when showing it to newer students. I'll have to ask a new student....