Understanding Our Motivation Why do we take belt exams? The answer shapes how we train, how we perform, and how long we persevere. Here’s my perspective on their purpose. Celebration First and foremost, a belt exam is a time for group celebration. A practitioner is invited to test only after proving—through consistent training—that they have … More What are belt exams for?
The episode described below is a clear example of the overlapping principles between Aikido and non-violent communication. I’ve been thinking for a while now to write about that connection and this was the little push I needed. A few days ago I was at the changing room after my Aikido practice. There were two older … More Conflict Resolution with Aikido and NVC
“Onegai shimasu” doesn’t have a straightforward one-to-one translation to English. “Onegai” comes from “negau” which literally means pray/wish for something. The “O” at the beginning is the honorific that makes the expression respectful. Of course, we would never say it without it, but that is what it represents. (Do not mistake the honorific “O” with … More The Meaning of Onegai Shimasu
Think about a black belt, as something you lose, not something you win. Sawaki Kodo, a Zen master, often said, “Winning is suffering, losing is enlightenment.” If one asks the difference between today’s and past practitioners, I would answer that past practitioners saw training as “loss.” They abandoned everything for their art and practice, families, … More Becoming a Black Belt
From the beginning of the Circle Dance Facilitator’s Training, I could see how Aikido and Circle Dances align. From the initial dances and exercises, we had a moment to reflect on the awareness and intentionality of the movements and the perception of unity. And, of course, the fundamental aspect they have in common is circularity. … More The Connection between Aikido and Circle Dance
Shoshin is a word from Zen Buddhism meaning “beginner’s mind.” It refers to having an attitude of openness, eagerness, and lack of preconceptions when studying a subject, even when studying at an advanced level, just as a beginner would. – Wikipedia In general, the Shoshin spirit is associated with an attitude that favors the acquisition … More Shoshin & Empathy
Non-Violent Communication (NVC) is a four-step method that enable us to empathize with another human being, whoever that person might be. We achieve that by connecting with their needs and feelings without judgment or assigning blame. This is fully aligned with the Aikido principles. Aikido is not a method to fight and defeat the enemies, … More The protective use of force
Our bodies need movement and effort. To keep it in good shape we need to use it constantly. However, our current lifestyle increasingly deprives us from physical and outdoor activities. We have come to the point of having to pay for exercising and sweating. Sometimes I try to imagine the reaction of one of our … More Falling to Forge Your Spirit
Luis Patricio 