Shukan News 27th February

Griffith Aikido Brisbane – learn Aikido in a friendly supportive environment

If you have any contribution for the Shukan News (story, photograph, video), please send it via email to gary@garyweigh.com

1. Reminder – AGM & Committee nominations

Just a reminder that the Griffith Aikido AGM will be held at 8pm on Thursday 15th March 2012 at Nathan dojo. You must be a member to nominate for the Committee or to vote at the AGM.

2. An interesting article from William Reed

reed_sensei1What sort of things in life leave a deep impression? Things which are out of the ordinary, a great movie, a special meal, sensational news. What sort of things fail to leave an impression? Information, school work, fast food.

In most cases it is the extraordinary things which stick in our memory and leave an impression, often deep enough to be able to recall in detail many years or decades later. Go back and listen to the music that you listened to in high school or college, and you experience a slip in time.

We leave impressions in memory, impressions on people, on paper, and to seal our agreements. The character for Impression 印 contains all of these meanings, as well as that of the carved signature seal, and the mudra or iconic hand gesture in Buddhist statuary.

To read the entire article, go to:

http://www.daijob.com/en/columns/williamreed/article/2785

3. Wrap-up of the recent seminar with Peter Kelly and Alistair Williams

about griffithOn Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 February a number of us were lucky enough to attend a seminar conducted by Peter Kelly and Alistair Williams from Tasmania. The seminar was organised by Andy Defrancis and held at the Onami dojo at Capalaba. Andy hosted the guests and did everything to ensure a successful event.

The Onami dojo is small in size but big in heart and as usual John Sensei and the other members of the dojo made everyone feel welcome and included. Students from various dojos attended and John commented on the enthusiastic spirit of participation. He specifically noted that all the attendees were a credit to their dojo’s and practised with the sense of enjoyment and fun that is a cornerstone of Aikido Yuishinkai.

Griffith Aikido members in attendance included Paul, Michael, Emile, Michelle and David.

The guest teachers provided a fascinating and thought provoking insight into the application of aikido principles in a practical and (without doubt) effective way.

Sylvie1The nice flowing and big movements we are familiar with and see in techniques such as shomenuchi iriminage and munetski kotegaeshi were often described as “noise”. There were no wrist manipulations and flourishing arm movements. One way of describing what was happening is that you replaced your attacker in the space they occupied.

The focus was on a number of ideas which when combined provided a devastating response to any attack while maintaining control without inflicting great harm.

Just a few of the matters stressed by Sensei Kelly included;

  • always engage your attacker. Move in with a view to collapsing their structure;
  • maintain correct posture with the three tandens aligned.
  • there is no retreat in aikido. You may have to move backwards at times but you have to remain engaged, balanced and able to move forward.
  • always attack their centreline from your centreline,
  • and perhaps most importantly as Aikido is based on the sword the two things you need to do most are cut and thrust.

This is just paraphrasing which probably doesn’t do justice to what Sensei was teaching us. It all felt new but on reflection was really a way of looking at things from a slightly different angle. It was more than just a learning experience but a re-learning exercise. The principles highlighted fitted in well with the observation made in the article seen in the 13 Feb edition of the Shukan news namely,

“Aikido is generally believed to represent circular movements. Contrary to such belief, however, Aikido, in its true Ki form, is a fierce art piercing straight through the center of opposition.”

Despite the obvious size and power of Sensei, when an opportunity came to have him demonstrate a technique, or part of a technique, on you there was a gentleness and a ready smile.

Alistair Williams, a fantastic aikidoka and teacher in his own right, provided some valuable insight into ukemi. He highlighted that ukemi is not just rolling or breakfalling (in the context of this seminar it more often than not involved no more than splatting at the feet of nage). Ukemi is important in 3 parts, the need for a proper and committed attack (appropriate to the level of your training partner), the process and feel of going through the technique (which might in some cases involve assisting nage to feel the technique) and the outcome, whether that is a rollaway, a breakfall or a splat on the ground. Being able to do all these parts not only assists nage but helps you to learn. As he pointed out, not doing ukemi properly means you are really only doing half a lesson.

If you ever get the opportunity to attend a seminar conducted by either of them take it up. It was a fantastic experience. Again thanks to John Gam, Andy Defrancis and the other members of the Onami dojo for the opportunity to attend and for their infectious enthusiasm in the practice of Aikido.

4. Thought for the week

“Problems cannot be solved at the same level of awareness that created them.” Albert Einstein

Shukan News 20th February

Griffith Aikido Brisbane – learn Aikido in a friendly supportive environment

If you have any contribution for the Shukan News (story, photograph, video), please send it via email to gary@garyweigh.com

1. AGM to be held Thursday 15th March 2012

The Committee wishes to announce that this year’s AGM (Annual General Meeting) will be held at 8pm on Thursday 15th March at Nathan dojo. This is also a call for nominations for the new Management Committee which will take office after the AGM. Nominations will close on 1st March 2012. This your opportunity to be a part of your club’s future. Because we are a non profit club we rely entirely on volunteer labour and expertise. It takes quite a bit of work to keep two dojos open and fully equipped with mats and weapons. All middle and senior grade members should consider giving back to the organisation that trained you. We could certainly use your assistance.

2. Everton Hills grading last Saturday

On Saturday 18 February 2012, Everton Hills Dojo hosted its first major grading day for the year. Eleven gradings were conducted ranging from 4th kyu through to nidan. Despite the heat of the day, those being graded put on a sterling performance and did our dojo proud. The grading was made extra special by the many ukes in attendance from our fellow Aikido dojos, including Capalaba, Bald Hills, Redlands and Nathan. As an added bonus, Thom Hansen Sensei also attended and joined our Head Dojo instructor, Rod Nixon-Smith Sensei, on the grading panel.

A notable aspect of all the gradings was the extent to which those graded used their individual personalities and strengths to shape their Aikido. This serves as a useful reminder that while technical proficiency is an important part of our training, it is also about self-expression and recognising that we all must ultimately make our Aikido our own.

4th kyu (Orange Belt) Gradings

UshaThe morning kicked off with Usha and Susan grading for their 4th kyu. It’s always hard being the opening act at a major grading day, with the irony being that this task inevitably falls on the least experienced. If there were nerves (and I’m sure there were) Usha and Susan kept them well under control and gave an excellent demonstration of their skills.

Usha has a light hearted disposition and is responsible for many humorous moments during training. Her hassle-free demeanour flows through into her techniques which are characterised by a relaxed execution, while at the same time being technically right on the mark.

SusanSusan cross-trains in other Japanese weapons based arts and uses these skills to enhance her training and understanding of Aikido. In view of this, it is not surprising that her grading techniques were not only precise, but also featured committed cutting actions (which are very important in our martial art).

3rd Kyu (Green Belt) Gradings

Gary, Brendan, and Zac graded for their 3rd kyu. Their gradings, to say the least, were most impressive.

Brendan is a testament to the benefits afforded to those Aikido practitioners who take the time and commitment to develop their ukemi skills from the outset. Anyone who has trained with Brendan will have noticed that his ukemi skills are more at a level one would expect from a hakama grade. His developed abilities in this regard have given him an edge in acquiring an inner understanding of how techniques should feel in a dynamic situation without being clouded by fear of falling or escaping pain. The end result is what we saw at his grading – smooth, flawless techniques with an emphasis on blending and relaxed execution – just what Aikido should be.

ZacZac is one of the teen members in the Dojo’s adult class. Words that sum up Zac’s approach to Aikido include the all-important “commitment” and “focus”. In addition to regularly training 3 days a week, he also squeezes in extra time on the mat by assisting with the “Aiki-kids” classes. His many hours of determined practice very much shined through at his grading. What was particularly impressive was his use of ki extension throughout his techniques. During his demonstration of yokomenuchi techniques, he also confidently performed many more than the 2 arts required (I lost count after 5) without any wavering in quality.

GaryWhile Gary has been a staple at our dojo for more than a year now, it is not uncommon for him to travel internationally and interstate for extended periods on work and personal business. Applying the concept of “Aikido without boundaries” at its literal level, Gary searches out and finds an Aikido Dojo wherever he travels and continues on training regardless. This mix in training has given Gary a unique perspective on our martial art and his Aikido is all the better for it. His grading was confident and assured, with due regard to technical execution. His 3rd kyu was most deserved.

2nd Kyu (Brown Belt) Gradings

Bill and Neil stepped up for their 2nd kyu grading and I know both have worked very hard to ensure their Aikido meets the high standards that they set for themselves. As anyone can attest who has done it, undertaking a 2nd kyu grading is quite a daunting prospect. In addition to set techniques, students for the first time must demonstrate weapons katas and perform taninzugake nage. To their credit both Bill and Neil most ably accepted the challenge and came through with style.

NeilA distinguishing feature of Neil’s Aikido is that he puts his heart and soul into it. Neil also has a strong appreciation of the often neglected meditative aspects of Aikido and its emphasis on being a martial art of peace. This was helpful as there were times during his grading when some of his ukes threw him interesting “curved balls”. To his credit Neil handled them with aplomb, smiled and kept on going undeterred. He particularly hit his stride during his munetsuki taninzugake – relaxed and confident he effortlessly executed a wide variety of techniques including a myriad of most impressive zenpos (which are always a crowd pleaser). Great effort Neil – looking forward to your 1st kyu!

BillBill started Aikido later in life and is the walking embodiment of the notion that you should never let age, injury or community stereotypes discourage you from giving life a “kick in the pants”. What I particularly liked about Bill’s grading is that he worked at his own pace, remained conscious of his position on the mat and retained an unwavering focus on the task at hand. It was also evident that the name of the game for Bill was achieving economy of movement without compromising martial integrity – a worthwhile pursuit to say the least. Well done mate.

1st Dan Gradings

Sylvie, Michelle and David share a common history in that they all commenced their study of Aikido Yuishinkai at Everton Hills Dojo. Further, there is no doubt that they are 3 of the club’s pillars and have helped underpin the success of our dojo over the last couple of years. I know Rod Sensei very much appreciates their assistance, both on and off the mat, as do the rest of us.

Sylvie1The secret to Sylvie’s success on the mat can be attributed to straight down the line hard work and commitment. In addition to training 3 days a week, Sylvie is a regular at the many seminars that have been run over the years, as well as training the odd Sunday to work on those “hard to get right” techniques. The end result was that Sylvie put on a grading performance that she can be most proud of. Her grading was confident, polished, free-following and unforced. I also particularly liked the fact that she never stopped smiling throughout (a cunning tactic intended maybe to unnerve her ukes?). All the best Sylvie – a black belt most deserved.

MichelleMichelle’s grading performance is a testament to her determination to continue to achieve in our martial art. Despite struggling in recent times with injuries, she has remained committed and pressed on regardless. Technical proficiency and focus seemed to be the core theme and there was no doubt she was a lady on mission. Michele’s saningake was particularly fun to watch as she dispelled a myriad of keen attacks to the enjoyment of those of us in attendance. Congratulations Michelle – a well earned grading.

DaveDavid’s grading was fascinating to watch as he used timing, distance and his often size advantage to great effect. David also led his uke’s through his techniques, the importance of which is sometimes forgotten. Further, it is one thing to do something quite difficult (and I think it fair to say that a black belt grading falls into this category), it is quite another to do something quite difficult and make it look easy. This is what David did in his grading. All in all, an outstanding demonstration of keeping calm under fire while maintaining mind and body coordination. What can I say – an impressive display of Aikido skills – congratulations mate.

2nd Dan Grading

Craig-1Nidan gradings are not a common occurrence at our Dojo (although this may change in coming years). It was accordingly a big moment for us to host Craig’s nidan grading.

Craig has many years of experience in Aikido and his acquired skills over this time were most evident throughout his grading. His breadth of knowledge of a wide variety of techniques was on full display and he executed on repeated occasions a number of technically challenging techniques with apparent ease. Craig’s Aikido was also a demonstration on how to use timing, pace and the maintenance of your one-point to great advantage.

For the few who may not have met Craig, he has a love of traditional Japanese weapons based arts and cross-trains in a number of these. Given his background, it is no surprise that his weapons tanizugakes were highlight moments. He readily handled and clearly enjoyed dealing with some quite spirited weapons attacks from various ukes.

CraigI think I speak for all of us Craig that it was great to be part of your nidan grading and a big thanks for sharing it with us. Great work mate – looking forward to your 3rd Dan.

Finally, a big thank you to all those who worked behind the scenes to make the grading a success. Anita and Louisa – the pizzas were great!

By Ian Grant, Everton Hills Dojo.

3. Best dojo north of the Brisbane River

OK so it’s all about Everton Hills dojo this week. Check this out! If this video doesn’t convince you to try the wonderful and mysterious art of Aikido, nothing will. Many thanks to Ian Grant for putting this collection together.

http://vimeo.com/36957025

4. Thought for the week

“It is better to light a candle than curse the darkness.” Eleanor Roosevelt

Shukan News 13th February

Griffith Aikido Brisbane – leading Brisbane Aikido

learn Aikido the art of peace in a friendly supportive environment

If you have any contribution for the Shukan News (story, photograph, video), please send it via email to gary@garyweigh.com

1. Everton Hills grading 18th February

Everton-Hills-Group1Everton Hills Grading day is coming up on Saturday18th February. All are very welcome to come and watch or get on the mat as Ukes.

Rod has confirmed with the Acting Manager of the PCYC that all visitors will be admitted free whether they are Ukes or spectators. The Ukes will just have to complete a Casual Usage Form to be covered by the PCYC insurance. There will be pizza afterwards as an extra incentive.

2. Old mats giveaway

We want to give away 3 x 7 m. Acromats mats (blue roll-up gym mats). They are in poor condition but they can probably be restored. They are currently stored at a location in Crestmead so anyone interested would have to pick them up from there. If any of our members are interested, please contact Steve at info@griffithaikido.com.au.

3. Annual General meeting

Our Annual General Meeting is coming up in Mid March. We encourage senior members of Everton Hills and Nathan dojos to nominate for the Management Committee. There are three executive roles (President, Treasurer, Secretary) available plus a number of other general committee positions. This is your opportunity to have a say in the future of your club and to put your helpful suggestions into action.

4. Constructive and Counterproductive Use of Resistance in Aikido Training

This is an interesting article from the Dragon tsunami website, written by David Alexander.

http://www.dragon-tsunami.org

The four levels of training in Aikido were presented in a previous Dragon Times article (vol. 5, p. 31). These levels are:

  1. Katai (rigid)
  2. Yawarakai (resilient)
  3. Ki-no-nagare (flowing)
  4. Ki (spirit)

Aikido is generally associated with ki-no-nagare technique, and some persons train this way exclusively in an almost dance-like manner. I personally consider it unfortunate that a widespread public conception of Aikido is based on this image.
To quote a passage from a book written my teacher, Morihiro Saito Sensei (9th dan), entitled Traditional Aikido Vol. 5, p. 36, “Aikido is generally believed to represent circular movements. Contrary to such belief, however, Aikido, in its true Ki form, is a fierce art piercing straight through the center of opposition.”

To read the entire article, go to:

http://www.dragon-tsunami.org/Dtimes/Pages/articlea2.htm

5. Thought for the week

“Before you criticize someone, you should walk a mile in their shoes. That way, when you criticize them, you’re a mile away and have their shoes.” Anon

http://www.myprosperityforum.com/

Shukan News 6th February

BEGINNER’S COURSE STARTS THIS TUESDAY 7th FEBRUARY

If you have any contribution for the Shukan News (story, photograph, video), please send it via email to gary@garyweigh.com

1. Etiquette and bowing

This article, “Etiquette and Bowing” by Francis Takahashi, is reproduced from the Aikido Journal.

Francis-TakahashiEtiquette is a most useful tool to assist people of independent thinking, different cultural and ethnic origins, and for life tested individuals to suspend for the moment, their particular biases, beliefs and boundaries, for the good of harmonious and respectful social interaction with one another. The human species is the only one I am aware of that finds this to be useful and important.

Nonetheless, such standards of etiquette are at best, arbitrarily determined, culturally specific, and never intended to be an all inclusive invitation for anyone to join without condition or consequence. In other words, they are primarily designed to discriminate amongst potential participants in a specified social function or activity. You either comply with such standards, willingly or not, or be potentially ostracized and banished from further involvement with the specific privileges and activities defined by such arbitrary and inherently unfair boundaries of applied etiquette.

To read the entire article, follow the link:

http://blog.aikidojournal.com/2011/12/05/etiquette-and-bowing-by-francis-takahashi/

2. Consistency is the key to training

learn-aikidoConsistency of quality training is the key to competence and understanding in Aikido. The first requirement is to get to the dojo to practice. But if getting to the dojo means only being there in body and being switched off in mind, then progress will be slow.

The other relevant factor here is that not all dojos are the same. It helps a lot if the dojo you choose feels right for you. You are not going to want to train regularly inside a dojo that feels sterile and unwelcoming.

For example, you will know you are in the wrong place if you are ignored and left to your own devices as a beginner, or where the instructor has no interest in even knowing your name.

Secondly, Aikido is a mind-body art therefore quality training requires both mind and body to be present and focused. This is a discipline in itself because it is not always easy to juggle Aikido with the demands of a busy life outside the dojo.

Thirdly, practice should be performed at a level that is challenging and moves you outside of your comfort zone. Moving beyond that which you know is the way to progress along the path of Aikido.

Fourthly, Aikido training should be done on a regular basis. For most people, twice a week is the minimum, but training three times a week is desirable in order to move forward at a steady rate. Having said that, it is more important to decide on a level of commitment and stick to it. Sporadic training interspersed with long absences is a progress killer.

Lastly, it is important to realize that Aikido is a martial art that requires commitment to the art, to the dojo, to the instructors, and to fellow students. It is not a casual boxercise or pilates class, squeezed into your busy week when you have a spare hour or two.

It is rarely the beginner student showing most talent and potential who ultimately achieves black belt and beyond. More often it is the open minded, slower learner who embraces the art and commits to making Aikido a part of their life.

3. Taekwondo shuffle in Korea

This is an action packed 2:50 of fun and entertainment

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K1Cfy4d9-to&feature=related

4. Thought for the week

“Vision without action is a daydream. Action without vision is a nightmare.” Japanese proverb

http://www.myprosperityforum.com/

Shukan News 30th January

Griffith Aikido Brisbane – learn Aikido – beginners welcome

If you have any contribution for the Shukan News (story, photograph, video), please send it via email to gary@garyweigh.com

1. Reminder … annual membership is due

I would like to remind all continuing Nathan dojo members that your annual club membership is now due. Please go to the payments page and pay via Paypal or pay at the desk this week. Many thanks

-Jutta

2. Life is not about fighting

about griffithStatistically speaking, a random violent attack by a stranger is relatively rare. It just doesn’t seem that way because this type of violence usually makes the 6 o’clock news. A home invasion; a youth kicked on the ground by a gang; an eighty year old beaten and robbed. All are despicable acts of violence against utterly defenceless people perpetrated by the lowest of cowards; and somehow they make great news stories.

Despite the headlines, the vast majority of assaults and violent acts never make the evening news or the front page of the newspaper. They are perpetrated indoors by aggressors known to the victims.

The aggressors include spouses, current and ex-partners, family members, friends, co-workers, bosses, managers, and fellow school students. These attacks may not involve physical violence. They may take the form of verbal assault, harassment and intimidation.

Then there are the everyday hassles, confrontations and difficult situations we face as we go about our daily business. Every time we step outside the front door, there is a reasonable chance of encountering anger, rudeness and frustration in a variety of everyday situations. Unfortunately, it seems to be part of life these days.

Of all the conflict situations described above, very few warrant a violent response. Most require a different set of skills – to be able to protect ourselves and somehow resolve the conflict or escape the situation, without hurting the other person. Because, it is likely that the other person is someone that we currently (or recently), like or love.

Aikido provides these life skills. It can thwart violence but more importantly, it provides a way out of life’s difficult and confrontational situations. After all, it might feel good to win the fight in the heat of the moment, but most of us, who have a healthy respect for humanity, would not want to have the death or injury of another on our conscience for the rest of our lives.

http://www.myprosperityforum.com/

3. Aikido – the art of peace

Over the years, we have had quite a few people start learning Aikido and then leave our dojo in a short space of time because they were disappointed that they were not learning to fight.

It’s a real shame that people don’t stick around to see a fraction of what Aikido has to offer. With no kicks and punches, and no aggression, Aikido can be too hastily judged to be useless in a physical confrontation.

It is true that Aikido takes a long time to learn and takes a lot of practice before it can be considered effective self defence. However, Aikido is founded in a different philosophy.

Everton-Hills-21Although it can be lethal in its most martial application, Aikido is not meant to be an aggressive art. The art that was shown to the world by O’Sensei Morihei Ueshiba, is known worldwide as the art of peace. It seeks to restore peace where peace is absent!

Fighting is society’s default conflict resolution process. Most people know no other way. Our entire history is enshrined in war and violent conflict. Violence is still glorified and commercialised in action movies and video games.

It is little wonder that a school yard or workplace argument is resolved in exactly the same way? Most people don’t have the skills to approach it in any other way.

Fighting offers very little possibility of peace when one has defeated and possibly injured, humiliated and shamed another. It serves only to fuel anger, bitterness and revenge.

If you fight, you spend your life looking over your shoulder for one of your victims bearing a grudge. It is true that revenge is a dish best served cold. It could be years before your past catches up with you; and you may never see it coming.

So what is different about Aikido? Regular training in Aikido develops a non-fighting mind. For a martial art that grew out of Japanese battlefield arts, that is something very special.

A non-fighting mind is one that feels no need to fight or to vanquish another. A non-fighting mind seeks to stop the violence and restore peace, not by meeting force with force. Aikido uses the energy of an opponent to redirect, control and stop the violence. In that way, no one needs to be hurt – physically or emotionally.

Come train with us, learn the art of inner peace and make new friends. Class times information at https://www.griffithaikido.com.au/class-times/

See you on the mat!

4. Thought for the week

“The more tranquil a man becomes, the greater his success, his influence, his power for good. Calmness of mind is one of the beautiful jewels of wisdom.” James Allen

Shukan News 23rd January

Griffith Aikido Brisbane – learn Aikido – beginners welcome

If you have any contribution for the Shukan News (story, photograph, video), please send it via email to gary@garyweigh.com

1. Training as usual at Nathan on Australia Day

There will be adult training as usual at Nathan dojo this coming Thursday 26th January (Australia Day). Even though it is a public holiday, the 6.30pm class will be held as normal.

2. Why Aikido should be taught to every child

aikido-brisbane-4Aikido should be taught to every child in every school simply because ‘the art of peace’ develops a non-fighting mind. In 20 years time, we would have a generation of non-fighting young adults.

Bullying is a fact of life in school. It has always been there and shows no signs of abating. Governments try to formulate policy and legislation but it is difficult to control human behaviour this way.

School administration and teachers are charged with responsibility of keeping children safe on school grounds. What about bullying outside school grounds? What about cyber-bullying that simply transcends school grounds? What about silent intimidation? There are so many aspects to bullying that adults simply can’t control.

All school children benefit from Aikido. We teach the art in a fun way. It is an early lesson in taking responsibility for their own safety, rather than transferring all of the responsibility to adults.

Aikido is about living a peaceful life with self confidence and restoring peace in a non-violent way when someone breaks the rules. As mentioned above, it instills a non-fighting mind – a valuable asset for life.

Here are just some of the ways in which Aikido can help children at school:

  • Aikido is a non-aggressive martial art. You can’t start a fight with Aikido but you can stop one quite easily without injury to the participants.
  • Aikido teaches conflict resolution skills without the need to fight. The many self defence techniques are very effective but they are designed to restore peace, not escalate violence.
  • Aikido works for smaller children. Aikido does not rely on size, strength, speed, weight, or reach. Therefore, it is effective for everyone; girls and boys alike.
  • Aikido does not require athletic ability. In fact, that can sometimes get in the way. The key to making progress in Aikido is simply to persevere and have a positive attitude. What better lesson could we teach children?
  • Aikido teaches self control. With improved Aikido skills and confidence it is a lot easier to stay calm and maintain self control. It is the bully who suffers a contentious mind and loses self control.
  • Aikido helps a child’s mind development at school. By training in Aikido, children develop calm, clear minds. As a result, they absorb knowledge easier, and think with greater clarity.
  • Aikido training develops self confidence and brings back self esteem to children who have been bullied. That is a big positive step forward in the transition from childhood to healthy adulthood.

For more information about Aikido for children go to our Aikikids page on this website https://www.griffithaikido.com.au/aikikids/ and download the free booklet ‘A Parent’s Guide’ on the right hand panel of this page. To enroll your child in Griffith Aikikids call Steve (Nathan) on 0413 664 611 or Rod (Everton Hills) on 0406 598 478 simply come to one of our two dojos.

Class times at https://www.griffithaikido.com.au/class-times/

3. Barefoot running

This is an interesting link sent in by Mike. It is a video about barefoot running and the site has a lot of interesting ideas, but this video in particular has a couple of posture and concept drills that relate to the ideal posture for Aikido and daily life. Funnily enough it seems we should go back to barefoot.

http://www.barefootrunningaustralia.com.au/2011/03/learn-to-run-barefoot-with-lee-saxby/

4. Thought for the week

“When the student is ready, the teacher will appear.” Buddhist Proverb

Shukan News 16th January

Griffith Aikido Brisbane – learn Aikido – beginners welcome

If you have any contribution for the Shukan News (story, photograph, video), please send it via email to gary@garyweigh.com

1. Self-Defence for Nathan Aikikids

self-defence-for-aikididsHi Mums, Dads and Carers

Next Saturday I will start a series of 3 classes on self-defence. I have done this over the past couple of years at the start of the year, and the classes have been appreciated as parents prepare their kids for school.

My aim is to provide the kids with some tools to deal with potentially difficult situations with other kids, and to be discerning when applying physical aikido. I intend to show them some simple aikido techniques as well as some other simple self-defence techniques, use of the voice (verbal aikido), not contributing to escalation/diffusing, and then have them put it all together.

Steve, Nathan Aikikids Instructor

2. Aikido is the ideal martial art for females

aikido-martial-art-for-females1If you are female and searching for martial arts Brisbane, then you are in the right place. There are not many martial arts where females can be just as capable as males. But Aikido is one of them!

Aikido is for everyone; female, male, young and old. It is known worldwide as the art of peace. Size and physical strength count for nothing in this subtle Japanese defensive art. It is all about balance, movement and timing – all borne out of relaxation and a highly developed non-fighting mind set.

Aikido techniques are largely about taking balance, not pushing or dragging. The same principles apply to the taking of balance regardless of gender. When someone is thrown it really is a case of the bigger they are the harder they fall. Fortunately everyone is taught defensive rolling to land safely.

In the early stages of Aikido training it is easy to distinguish who is the attacker (Uke) and who is the defender (Nage). But with regular practice comes a highly developed sense of awareness and anticipation.

With more advanced skills, it becomes harder to distinguish Uke from Nage because Nage is moving to defend even as the thought to attack is forming in Ukes’ mind, and well before it is translated into action.

brisbane-martial-art-for-femalesSo does it mean this strictly defensive art transforms into an aggressive attacking art over time? Not really! It just means that defence occurs earlier in the eyes of an observer. The defender is no longer waiting to receive the oncoming energy. In most cases, it also means that there is less to do because the initiative has been seized earlier.

We have many females train with us at Griffith Aikido Institute and I am pleased to say that we have quite a number of female senior students at both or North side and South side dojos. We deliberately position ourselves as a female friendly Aikido club.

Our most senior ranked female is Jutta. She is now in her early seventies and is a 4th level black belt. She is a truly delightful person but I wouldn’t mess with her. Other very talented senior girls who will look after you include Sylvie, Narelle, Michelle and Kylie.

So if you are a female looking for a truly engaging and interesting martial art in Brisbane and one that provides effective self defence, come meet Jutta and the girls.

3. Positive Mind – how to think yourself fit

Here is an interesting article about the use of positive mind in finding health and fitness.

If you’re suddenly going nowhere with your fitness or weight loss programme, it could be your head that needs a workout, not your body. We speak to personal trainers and psychologists for tips and tricks that will help you think yourself into better shape

We spend endless hours working out to improve our performance at the gym, boost stamina and reach our ideal weight. But without razor sharp mental fitness, all of the above will remain frustratingly out of reach.

“Our mind plays an essential role when it comes to getting fit and losing weight,” says fitness trainer Gavin Walsh.

Read the entire article at: http://health.ninemsn.com.au/fitness/exercise/8402552/how-to-think-yourself-fit

4. Thought for the week

“Being defeated is often a temporary condition. Giving up is what makes it permanent.” Marilyn Vos Savant

Shukan News 9th January

Come learn Aikido – beginners welcome

If you have any contribution for the Shukan News (story, photograph, video), please send it via email to gary@garyweigh.com

1. Nathan Aikikids Round Up – End of 2011 / Start of 2012

brisbane-aikido-3Hi Mums, Dads and Carers,

First of all can I say Happy New Year. 2012 is going to be fantastic!! We’re up and running again as of last Saturday.

The club has introduced a new Child Protection policy. One of the new requirements is that a parent/guardian/carer of a child must stay and be present for the class.

As of 7th January, class times will stay the same but we will be altering our class age arrangements for the second class as follows:

  • 8.00am to 8.50am – Aikinippers (5 to 8 year olds)
  • 8.50am to 9.40am – Aikinippers (5 to 8 year olds) + Aikikids (8 to 12 year olds)
  • 9.40am to 10.30am – Aikikids (8 to 12 year olds)

I didn’t get a chance at the end of last year to say thank you in the Shukan News to everyone who helped to make 2011 as wonderful as it was. Our kid’s classes are blessed with lots of enthusiastic helpers. Helpers helped regularly and fitted into anything I did. Thank you.

A thank you to Natalie as well for her efforts running the admin desk. It was a real team effort. A final thank you to parents who appreciate what we do and kept bringing their kids.

Congratulations to Dayne Jesse, who graded to Black Tip (Junior Black Belt) at the end of November. His grading was very well done, and his performance of techniques, weapons kata and 2 person adult attack was excellent.

Congratulations to all the other kids who graded too. I’ve been very impressed.

Steve, Nathan Aikikids instructor

2. Hydrate well during summer training

aikido-brisbane-3 (1)Here we are into summer Aikido training again. A 2-hour class is hot work, particularly on a mid-summer Saturday. It is most important to stay well hydrated.

Good hydration starts well before physical activity. Prepare by drinking before class and at regular intervals during training. Experiencing the feeling of thirst means that is too late. Thirst is your body’s way of telling you it is dehydrated. .

Dehydration can cause some serious effects on the body. The article below is a good summary of what to do to stay hydrated:

“Do not use ‘thirst’ as a way of knowing whether you need to drink liquids. Thirst is not always a good sign that your body needs more liquids.” The following are suggestions for how much liquid you may need to drink to prevent dehydration:

  • Before exercise: Drink about 350-600 ml of liquid, two to three hours before exercise.
  • During exercise: Drink 175 to 350 ml of liquid every 15 to 20 minutes.
  • After exercise: Drink 470-700 ml of liquid for every pound lost during exercise. Eighty percent of water lost during exercise must be replaced before another exercise event done in the same day.

It is a good idea to weigh yourself before and after exercise, especially during hot weather. This will tell you how much water you have lost in sweat during exercise. You will need to replace this water after exercise.

Read the article Importance of Hydration for an Athlete

Read more at www.lifemojo.com

3. Capalaba Dojo Aikido Seminar

Aikido Yuishinkai’s Capalaba dojo is hosting a seminar next month presented by Peter Kelly and Alistair Williams. It will be 9 am to 5 pm on 11th & 12th February 2012. Numbers are limited to 20 participants. For more details click on Capalaba Aikido Seminar.

4. Thought for the week

“Write your hurts in sand and carve your blessings in stone.” Author unknown

Shukan News 12th December

Griffith Aikido Brisbane – learn Aikido

Beginners welcome 6.30pm Tuesday 3rd January 2012

If you have any contribution for the Shukan News (story, photograph, video), please send it via email to gary@garyweigh.com

1. Membership changes in 2012

2012 membership renewal is due from Tuesday 3rd January. Griffith Aikido Institute Inc. has made a few changes to its membership rules for 2012, as well as the casual training fee structure:

  • Ordinary membership will be offered only to those who consider their home dojo to be Griffith Aikido. Your home dojo is the place where you train regularly (or would normally train) and where you grade; and / or where you are accredited to teach.
  • To become a member of Griffith Aikido in 2012, you must complete and sign the membership application form, thereby agreeing to the club’s media policy and to abide by its other policies (e.g. safety, grading, health, behaviour, discrimination, bullying, harassment etc). Hard copies of our policies will be available at the front desk. You must also complete a medical form and ensure that you have signed an indemnity form. You will become a member (new or renewing) when the committee approves your application at its following monthly meeting.
  • Membership rates remain the same at $30 for adults and $15 for children and students. These rates will now apply from 1 January through to 30 September. If a person is accepted into the club after 30 September, the membership fee will be waived.
  • Every member, including multiple members of the same family, must pay membership fees although, in the case of Everton Hills’ members, membership fees will be paid directly to The Hills PCYC. Family concessions will be applied to training fees only, and be determined on a case by case basis.
  • If your membership application is not approved, all money paid will be refunded in full and you will be advised of the committee’s decision in writing.
  • Members of other clubs are most welcome to visit us and cross train at our dojos. The visitor rate is a flat $12 per class regardless of rank. Free training for visitors who are Nidan rank or above has been abolished.
  • We have introduced a ‘sister dojo’ casual class rate of $7 to encourage Griffith members to travel across town and visit their sister dojo (either Everton Hills or Nathan). The casual class rate for Nathan members training casually at Nathan dojo remains at $10.
  • Otherwise, the adult training fee structure and the Aikikids training fee structure remains unchanged.

2. Aikido National Geographic

Mike sent this National Geographic clip in. It is one person’s journey to meet some of the most respected Aikido instructors in Japan. It is 46 minutes long and will make good holiday viewing.

3. Slow down and smell the roses

butchart-gardens-vancouver-islandWhen I first started work, the job I do now didn’t exist. Bill Gates was 14 years old and had been programming computers for a year or so. In those days, I could actually do mental arithmetic. Electronic pocket calculators, personal computers and spreadsheets had not been invented, yet it was the year that Neil Armstrong walked on the moon.

As a child, I listened to the radio and read books for pleasure. I went to the movies with my family. Every Sunday we sat down to Mum’s roast lunch. I visited my grandparents, aunts and uncles regularly. Close connection with extended family was considered important.

When the first black and white television sets appeared in the windows of the local hardware and electrical store, I joined family and neighbours on the footpath after closing time and stared through the shop window in amazement.

Now, in the digital age, there is barely a household in the country that doesn’t have one or two big screen TVs. The internet, the mobile phone and now the iphone mean that we are connected to the entire world.

But we are not really connected; not in the old fashioned sense. What we now mean by ‘connected’ is that the whole world and most of the information in it is available to us electronically at the click of a mouse.

Yep! I even remember when the word ‘mouse’ had only one meaning – the little furry animal with a long tail.

Today, we seem to have every choice of every food, experience, product and service thrust at us, yet we are not necessarily better off. In fact, the advent of the credit card and instant retail gratification has contributed to more than 2 million Australians meeting the definition of poverty.

We have every labour saving device available, yet we are still short of time. We are overloaded with communication technology, yet we are socially starved with less face-to-face personal interaction than ever before.

We are conditioned by our social system to get busy and stay busy, at the risk of being called ‘lazy’ if we take time out for ourselves or simply do nothing. Stress and lifestyle over-indulgence takes its toll on our health even though there have been more medical break-throughs over the last 100 years than there have been since time began.

brisbane-aikido-smell-the-rosesSo what’s the rush? We will all get to the end soon enough! Maybe it’s time to slow down and smell the roses. They will not bloom forever. Take time out to deliberately enjoy the experiences of life, moment by moment. Connect with real people, not their facsimile via keyboard words and pixels.

  • Talk instead of email or text
  • Read for pleasure
  • Enjoy a meal together
  • Have a good laugh
  • Don’t just travel, stay a while

Being too busy dulls creativity and productivity, resulting in a lack of enthusiasm and in many cases, burn-out. It is OK to take some time to enjoy being alive; to appreciate the wonderful world around us; and to dream of the things we still want to do.

Founded by Carlo Petrini, the Slow Movement started in the late 80’s as a foodie fight back against the opening of a McDonald’s restaurant on Rome’s Spanish Steps. Slow Food gave birth to Slow Cities and a host of slow activities aimed at reconnecting with people and life’s simple pleasures.

Slow living is about reconnecting with food, people and places, but not in an anti-work or even anti-capitalist way. In fact as Carl Honoré says in his book, In Praise of Slow, “The secret is balance. Instead of doing everything faster, do everything at the right speed. Sometimes fast. Sometimes slow. Sometimes somewhere in between!”

brisbane-aikido-2Practicing Aikido is a perfect way to live slowly. It is an art that works just as well slowly as it does quickly. It is two hours of switching off to the outside world and switching onto a connection with ancient Japanese tradition in an environment of respectful peace and quiet.

Some of the slow living aspects of Aikido include:

  • Leaving stress and the day’s worries at the dojo door
  • Interacting with good friends two or three times a week
  • Complete relaxation, particularly of the neck, shoulders and arms
  • Deep slow breathing to aid relaxation and Ki extension
  • Direct connection with a variety of training partners
  • Developing an alert calmness of the mind
  • Increased awareness and anticipation in the moment
  • Self healing

All those benefits and it is a very effective martial art as well. No wonder it is colloquially referred to as the art of peace!

4. Last thought for the year

“Christmas, my child, is love in action” Dale Evans

And finally…

This is the last Shukan News for the next 3 weeks. I would like to take the opportunity to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. See you on the mat in 2012.

-Gary

Shukan News 5th December

Griffith Aikido Brisbane – learn Aikido – beginners welcome

If you have any contribution for the Shukan News (story, photograph, video), please send it via email to gary@garyweigh.com

1. Everton Hills roundup

martial-arts-in-brisbane-everton-hillsThis is the first of what hopefully will be a regular contribution from members at the Everton Hills dojo. For those of you who have not had the opportunity to visit us we train at the Hills District PCYC each Monday and Wednesday evening and Saturday morning with kids’ classes held on Monday and Saturday. If you are interested in coming along you are most welcome.

We are a fairly diverse and friendly bunch with a good mixture of gender, age and experience level. In addition to the privilege of having Rod Sensei as our head dojo instructor, Darren Richardson and Craig Mann lead us in some very interesting classes on Wednesday nights. A mixture of back to basics and thinking outside – but staying inside – the square.

Rod, Michelle and Darren are the primary teachers for our kids but a lot us chip in to help particularly on Saturday mornings. Sensei Steve Mitchell has also delighted the kids (including some of us larger ones) with his occasional visits to teach.

Most of our senior group gets down to Nathan occasionally particularly for special events such as Sensei Steve Dows’ senior classes or Ki classes or to attend when we have visiting teachers such as the recent (and excellent) seminar by Sensei Murray Loader.

Griffith Aikido is one club that has a dojo at Nathan and another at Everton Hills. From a personal viewpoint I know that when I come to a class at Nathan I feel like a member of Griffith Aikido and not just a visitor. That is no doubt due to the fact that the teachers and students at Nathan, as all good aikidoka do (say that 3 times quickly), make me feel welcome and part of the club. At Everton Hills we look forward to the opportunity to do the same.

Congratulations to Lachlan on his recent President’s award. Well deserved. Lachlan has trained with us at Everton Hills and we have enjoyed his company. Also, his mum makes the most fantastic pumpkin soup.

Just a reminder to our Nathan friends that we are open until 21st December so please feel free to come to Everton Hills dojo and train with us.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New year from all of us at Everton Hills.

-David

2. Nathan Aikikids end of year Christmas party

Steve-MitchellPlease be aware that this notice is for the Nathan Dojo Aikikids (it doesn’t apply to Everton Hills Dojo).

Next weekend, on Saturday, 10th December, is our Games Day / kids end of year Christmas Party.

Firstly, we will be having an open games session. It will start at 8am and finish at 10.30am. There will be one class fee only for the whole 2 hours.

Kids can certainly come for the two and a half hours, but you also don’t have to be there at 8am and you can go and come back at 10.30am if you want. That is, parents and kids can arrive when they want at the dojo, and leave when they want according to their needs.

I expect to have one game on each of the two main mats and probably also separate age groups, if required for safety reasons. As a safety measure in this situation, kids will only step onto and leave the mat with the permission of a ‘hall monitor’ helper.

Children will step onto and leave the mat (via the helper) according to whether they want to participate in a game being played at that time. Games will change every 10 minutes or so, and I will then stop everything, announce the next games, organise the kids for them if necessary, explain any safety requirements etc, then start.

Then, at 10.30am we will have some munchies outside the dojo area but within the gated area. Please bring a plate of goodies (and healthy things are goodies too) to share. The club will also put on some drinks and munchies.

Parents and kids are, of course, encouraged to attend the Xmas party even if they aren’t able to come for the games morning.

See you there.

-Steve

Nathan Aikikids Instructor

3. Book reviews

The following are book reviews from Amazon.com sent in by our librarian. Both books are now in our library and would make great reading over the holidays.

Ki – A Practical Guide for Westerners by William Reed

Ki-a-practical-guide-for-westerners5.0 out of 5 stars “The truth…! March 9, 2001 by A Customer

This review is from: Ki: A Practical Guide for Westerners (Paperback)

Like William Reed, I spent over 10 years in the Orient learning martials arts from men who had dedicated their life to the practice. This book ranks among the best written concerning ki. The ideas put forth are universal, and can be assimilated by a broad minded and discerning person. Enjoy this book, I certainly did and continue to do so every time I pick up my copy.

5.0 out of 5 stars A good beginning, June 23, 2000 by A Customer

This review is from: KI: A Practical Guide for Westerners (Paperback)

William Reed has tried to define and teach the meaning of Ki so that we in the west can learn. The first part of the text helps us understand Ki, develop Ki and practice Ki. There are a series of exercises and a section on Kimeditation. The second part of the text goes into Ki development in the Japanese Arts (Shodo, Aikido, Kiatsu, Go, Noh and the Tea Ceremony). And the third part, Ki in our ever changing world. A must have book.

Ki – A Road That Anyone Can Walk by William Reed

Ki-a-road-that-anyone-can-walk5.0 out of 5 stars “A great book about Ki which is not shrouded in mystery!” February

12, 1998 by A Customer

This review is from: KI –A Road That Anyone Can Walk (Paperback) My Tai Chi teacher suggested I read this book to broaden my understanding of Ki (or Chi). This book is easy to understand and unlike many books on this subject removes the shroud of mystery concerning Ki. Tohei’s mastery of Ki shows through in his clear explanations and insights.

4.0 out of 5 stars Biography of Koichi Tohei, June 23, 2000 by A Customer

This review is from: KI –A Road That Anyone Can Walk (Paperback) This book starts with the history of Koichi Tohei Sensei, who developed and bring his knowledge about KI to our world. Though I was looking for a text book on KI what I found was a book that has summaries of practical KI for our daily life. The most impressive thing is the fact that relax and calmness is the key to a great strength. Book allows you to see that anyone can learn and apply Ki.

4. Thought for the week

“A real friend is one who walks in when the rest of the world walks out” Walter Winchell