Shukan News 19th September

GET THROWN AROUND AT NATHAN SENIORS CLASS 29th SEPTEMBER

Griffith Aikido Brisbane Aikido

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

1. A big day at Everton Hills dojo

Ian-shodan-grading1Last Saturday was a wonderful event at Everton Hills Dojo. There were twenty-four of us on the mat for the gradings including Gabby, Aran, Paul and Mike. All of us were very grateful to all of them for coming, and also Sheree and Narelle who turned up later to watch. It always makes it a special occasion when we have visitors!

Besides Darren and Ian grading for Shodan, we had Aaron grading for Seventh Kyu, Usha and Susan for Fifth Kyu and Brendan, Gary and Zac for Fourth Kyu. Although all of them were nervous they all performed excellent gradings.

For once I forgot to say, “It’s fine to have butterflies, it’s just a matter of getting them to fly in formation.” But a couple of students reminded me afterwards. However, it is my strong belief that calmness and relaxation are techniques to be learnt as much as yokomenuchi shihonage or any of the others.

Aaron had the toughest gig of the day going first. I found out later that he’d been out playing in his band till the wee hours so the way he performed his grading was even more impressive. All techniques were done steadily and cleanly so the “automatic pilot” was working really well!

Usha and Susan grading for Fifth Kyu were next and both showed us clear and effective techniques. Both also showed that all the hard work on posture has paid off because that was excellent throughout. These two ladies showed that they have a flair for mastering techniques. It may not seem like it at times but it was there for all to see on Saturday.

Brendan, Gary and Zac showed us great awareness and they performed their techniques admirably. Brendan has come to terms with the Aikido Yuishinkai syllabus extremely well. Gary has kept training regularly despite being posted to such “outposts” as Auckland and Adelaide and Zac has trained diligently including helping us regularly with the Aikikids classes.

Ian-shodan-grading-2Darren and Ian performed their taninzugakes really well with plenty of smooth, effective techniques. Darren has a calm demeanour which gives him the appearance of having all the time in the world. Ian due to his huge “work ethic” has a tendency to “do” each technique rather than using the force of Uke’s attack. There has been a great improvement there though and both showed great power and control. All ukes would agree with that! In their weapons katas both gave confident, competent performances; and in sanningake both gave excellent displays which they obviously enjoyed.

For both it was the culmination of years of hard work and they richly deserved the impressive gradings they performed.

One couldn’t help but notice the looks of horror on the faces of the respective wives and children when Darren and Ian said they were now going to start preparing for their Nidan gradings. There is obviously a fair bit of ukeing done at home!

We all celebrated afterwards with pizzas and nibbles thanks to David and Michelle and it was lovely to have such an enjoyable social get together to cap off the day.

It certainly was a great day for Everton Hills Dojos. It was lovely seeing old friends again and also having so many there to support and encourage their colleagues and friends and to see them progress. It made it a truly memorable occasion.

-Rod Sensei.

Editor’s Note: From all of us at Griffith Aikido we would like to extend our congratulations to our newest Shodans, Darren and Ian!

2. Annual seminar – Maruyama Sensei 14th to 17th October

Maruyama Sensei

Maruyama Sensei

The 2011 annual seminar with Maruyama Sensei is fast approaching. It will run from Friday14th – Monday 17th October 2011.

There will be 3 days of Aikido (Friday, Saturday & Sunday) and I day of Shindo (Yuki) healing on the Monday. The seminar is again hosted by the Byron Bay Aikido Club at Goshinkan dojo.

Accommodation should be a little easier and cheaper this year because the seminar is not in the school holiday period. NSW state schools return for Term 4 on Monday 10th October. Queensland state schools return for Term 4 on Monday 3rd October.

Full details including prices are on the attached flyer below. Please note that the Early Bird date has been extended to 30th September.

FOR DETAILS CLICK ON THIS LINK Maruyama Sensei October Seminar

3. A Morning in with Nathan’s Aikikids

Last Saturday I found out first-hand what a group of talented and eager-to-learn children we have. As Steve, Nathan dojo’s head children’s instructor languished in hospital catching up on his post-op reading, he asked me to be present during the morning’s three Aikikids classes.

It is a club safety requirement that an accredited club instructor, who is versed in the club’s safety policies and trained in first aid, must be present for every class regardless of whether it is a children’s class or an adult class.

I had already asked Matt, one of Steve’s assistant instructors (a graded senior and participating parent) to take the classes, which he readily accepted. I should say at this point that Matt did a fantastic job. He engaged the children extremely well and his Aikido knowledge and experience showed through. So for me the hardest part of the day was waking up at 6.30am to open the dojo at 8am.

Nathan-dojo-AikikidsMatt took all three classes through ukemi (rolling) practice, starting with floor exercises, moving to forward rolling practice on the soft mats, and finishing with a simple but innovative ukemi obstacle course. As expected, the more experienced students showed a higher level of competence and the newer students were still finding their confidence.

What really impressed me however, was the attitude of self discipline and self control amongst large groups of children so young. For well over half an hour they eagerly focused on this key self defence activity that is not easy to master. They took instruction well and improved significantly by staying focused during repetitive practice. They did very well and it is a credit to them.

Defensive falling (rolling and break falling) is a skill which would stand anyone in good stead throughout their life – children and adults alike. It is very useful skill in a wide range of everyday situations. To be competent and confident in this part of the art of Aikido is to take the fear and risk of injury out of falling, stumbling, tripping, slipping or being pushed over.

For adults and children alike, taking ukemi from a throw is essential in gaining a deeper understanding of the technique being applied. There is only so much to be learnt by doing the technique. There is so much more to be learnt by receiving the technique.

-Gary

4. Get your club shirt now!

griffith-aikido-club-shirtDon’t forget our limited time offer to buy a Griffith Aikido club shirt!!

You must place your order before the end of September 2011.

The cost is $30.25 each (ladies, men, child) including GST. That is the unit cost price per shirt. The club will pay the embroidery and delivery charges.

 

 

How to order and pay:

  1.  Pay online at https://www.griffithaikido.com.au/payments/ (scroll down to the bottom of the page).
  2. Complete the attached order form Griffith Aikido Logo Shirts Order Form
  3. Return completed order form to Nathan dojo or email to info@griffithaikido.com.au

All orders must be submitted and paid for in advance! Then we will send the order to the supplier. We expect delivery 2-3 weeks later. If you would like to buy a shirt, please place your order now. It will be too late once this order closes. We will not be carrying stock!

5. Christmas break

As usual, our Nathan dojo will break for 3 weeks over Christmas. The last day of training will be held on Saturday 10th December and the first class in 2012 will be held on Tuesday 4th January.

The folks at our Everton Hills dojo (who really don’t like to stop training) are still thinking about their Christmas plans and we will release details shortly.

We will be organising daytime Christmas functions for children at both Nathan and Everton Hills dojos as well as one (1) combined evening function for adults. Details will be released soon.

6. Thought for the week

“Non-violence leads to the highest ethics, which is the goal of all evolution. Until we stop harming all other living beings, we are still savages.” Thomas Edison

Shukan News 12th September

REMINDER: DAN GRADINGS AT EVERTON HILLS 10.30 am THIS SATURDAY !!!

Griffith Aikido Brisbane

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

1. One member’s day out at the William Reed Sensei Nanba seminar

aikido-brisbane-2There is nothing like sleeping in on a Saturday morning, especially when there is nice rainy weather. There was however, no such chance of this for me. I was too excited anyway. Realising I was going to be late I packed quickly and rushed out the door as soon and as fast as I could manage. I was travelling to Cleveland to train with the well known William Reed Sensei for a weekend of Nanba and Aikido training.

Cleveland is some distance for the local inner-city Brisbane dweller like me. Worse still, Cleveland, to an inexperienced driver is a little bit of a maze, especially in wet weather. After praising that I had actually managed to make it to the school, I heard little kids screaming; organised screaming. It was martial arts, but not Aikido. Another woman and I looked through the doorway at the kids, looked at each other; and then came to the same conclusion.

Lost and confused we asked a parent taking their child to train where else on the school there could be another training place. 2 minutes later we had driven around the corner of the school. In a virtually wet, cold empty car park, I nestled my green little car beside the largest vehicle there. It was the one I knew well from my own dojo.

Trying to escape the rain, I moved quickly to the hall and entered. There were a select few of us; some from Everton Hills dojo, some from Nathan dojo and others from various places in and around Brisbane. All of us were dressed in casual exercise clothing. They were all friendly faces I knew well too; it was good to be among friends.

Luckily for me, class had not started yet. I had arrived just in time. I briefly spoke to Sensei; introducing myself in the usual slightly awkward way; as would usually occur when being nervous at meeting a very well known guest Sensei for the first time. At least that was where the nerves would be there most raw. Looking incredibly youthful, William Reed sensei had a welcoming demeanor. In conversation his laugh seemed to stand out the most; recognisable anywhere.

Class began. Today we were learning Nanba. As we found out from Sensei, it was the traditional way that Japanese people walked and moved. The exercises focused on finesse as he pointed out with his nicely done briar rabbit impersonation.

william-reed-mangaThe first session we learnt to walk Nanba style. We Nanba’d all around the court and even up and down steps; there was no where impossible to Nanba to. It felt and looked completely weird but somehow fun and less strenuous on the joints. By the second session we had developed our Nanba abilities. We had allowed the ‘Sensei side’ of our bodies (the side that picks it up quite easily), to teach our less capable sides. Now we were racing each other, gliding up and down the court Nanba style. As was pointed out it was hard to stop when you saw the wall (note to self: stop sooner if Nanba running). This time also, like Briar rabbit, Sensei showed us how it was impossible to be caught. After comparing normal running to Nanba running it was clear, everyone was much quicker and less puffed from Nanba style.

In session 3 we learnt the 12 Nanba stretches. It was quite amazing: I had joints creaking that I did not know even existed. After each stretch we noticed our movements afterwards were by far, a lot easier to do. These stretches also seemed relevant to many movements we make, especially the ones in Aikido. What was clear is that these actions maintained perfect balance and posture in any form you make and ensured less pain on the joints too.

Session 4 was the last session in which we did the seven exercises and oddly enough in time to music. It was a little like traditional Aikido warm-ups. It was also interesting to note that the songs used were compositions by music students at the university where Sensei last performed Nanba. Lastly, we let our creativity take over and expressed ourselves to the free movement of Nanba positions to music. Like all sessions, we ended with discussing the new points of understanding we had arrived at, as well as listening to a poem from one of his newly released books. After a long day’s Nanba-ing we were tired but enlightened by this new knowledge. From there it was off to dinner with sensei and others and then at last home.

Drifting off to sleep, I thought over our sessions. The whole point of Nanba was to not twist, disconnect or force oneself during an activity. The movements were to be applied to one’s every conscious movement throughout their day. I could see there was a bigger picture to Nanba. We had all walked away from those sessions with something more than just a bunch of stretches and movements; we had been shown a philosophy to express in deed. In many ways it represents many of the same physical principles we apply to our Aikido and on a more deeper and personal level the same one’s we mentally should apply to life. Truly, there was much value in the Nanba sessions; and quite satisfied with this, I fell asleep.

2. Women in Aikido

takako-kunigoshiOne of our members sent in this link to an Aikido Journal article titled, “Interview with Takako Kunigoshi”. This is a 1981 interview with Kunogoshi Sensei who started training with O Sensei in 1933. In a country were equality for women is still evolving, this was a time when there were very few women practicing martial arts. It is a good read and it is interesting to note that the art that O Sensei was teaching at the time was Takeda Sokaku Sensei’s Daito Ryu.

http://www.aikidojournal.com/article?articleID=613

3. Griffith Aikido club shirt offer – Limited time!!!

griffith-aikido-club-shirtWe are offering our members, friends and supporters a limited opportunity to buy a Griffith Aikido club shirt!! But you must place your order soon! The offer is only open until the end of September 2011.

The shirt is a very good quality two-tone contrast polo style shirt in black with red trim. The club logo will be embroidered on the front (on a white background). It is 65% polyester and 35% combed cotton fabric (210 grm approx) with a sun protection level of UPF 50+.

The cost is $30.25 each (ladies, men, child) including GST. That is the unit cost price to us and to you. We have not added a markup. The club will pay the embroidery and delivery charges.

How to order and pay:

  1. Pay online at https://www.griffithaikido.com.au/payments/ (scroll down to the bottom of the page).
  2. Complete the attached order form Griffith Aikido Logo Shirts Order Form
  3. Return completed order form to Nathan dojo or email to aikidogriffith@gmail.com

All orders must be submitted and paid for in advance! Then we will send the order to the supplier. We expect delivery 2-3 weeks later.

If you would like to buy a shirt, please place your order now. It will be too late once this order closes. We will not be carrying stock!

4. Thought for the week

“To not forgive others is to allow them rent free space in your mind.” Isabelle Holland

Discipline, cooperation and taking ukemi mean safe training

safety-ukemiAs our Aikido school maintains its popularity, we continue to make our members aware of the rigid safety policies of our dojo. We practice a potentially dangerous art which has inherent risks. For this reason, it is paramount that we all make practice as safe as possible.

Safety is one of the reasons for the strict discipline in every aikido dojo, including ours. Safety is the reason that you must follow Sensei’s instructions exactly and without question, and your actions should not deviate from those instructions.

Safety is one of the reasons that we practice cooperatively with each other and offer no resistance. Not only does it aid your learning, but as uke (the person receiving the technique), it is safer to go with the flow during a technique and take ukemi (roll out) safely, than it is to resist.

Safety is not just the responsibility of the instructor in charge of the class. Safety is everyone’s responsibility. Once you enter the dojo, you must be aware and stay aware of what is going on around you. You must also accept personal responsibility to play your part in safe practice.

One of the principal safety measures in our dojo is embedded in the Aikido Yuishinkai syllabus itself. It is taking Ukemi. The art of ukemi (defensive falling) is not only 50% of the learning required in Aikido, but the way that all aikido students keep themselves safe during practice.

To opt out of ukemi (forwards & backwards rolling and breakfalling) for any reason puts you at risk of being injured during practice. Seniors who can’t or won’t learn or implement the art of ukemi put themselves in even more danger because there is an assumption across all dojos that anyone wearing a hakama or a black belt can take ukemi with enough skill not to injure themselves.

brisbane-aikido-safety2It is because of safety concerns that we demand strict adherence to instructions given by our instructors. The class instructor is responsible for the activities undertaken by the class, the only one with a lesson plan, and the only one who has an overview of what everyone in the class is doing. Not following requests and instructions to the letter means you could you be placing yourself at risk, as well as endangering others.

We have a policy of allowing people to sit out of any activity they choose. However, that does not mean you can learn only part of the art. We expect you to embrace the entire art as taught by Maruyama Sensei. Therefore, you cannot expect to grade to a higher rank if you don’t have all of the necessary skills contained within the art of Aikido Yuishinkai.

Even though only some of the open hand techniques, disarming techniques and weapon kata are examined during a grading demonstration, it is also necessary to gain prociency in (amongst other things) ukemi, extending Ki, folding the hakama, leading the warm ups, and leading practice.

To further understand the safety requirements of our club, please read our safety page at: https://www.griffithaikido.com.au/about/safety/

Shukan News 5th September

Griffith Aikido Brisbane

“Beginner’s course Starts at 6.30pm Tuesday 6th September”

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 Saturday 17th September

brisbane-aikido (1)On Saturday, 17th September, Everton Hills Dojo will be holding Shodan Gradings for Darren Richardson and Ian Grant. Visiting Ukes are cordially invited for the occasion to support Darren and Ian.

The session will run from 10.30am -12.30pm and there will be a pizza lunch afterwards. I am currently talking to the PCYC Management about an extension of time and won’t have an answer till Wednesday. Should that not be possible all proceedings will have to be completed by 12.30.

Hoping to welcome many visitors!

Best wishes, Rod Sensei

2. Shaolin Warriors at QPAC 16th September

shaolin-warriorsDirect from China, the Shaolin Warriors return to the Australian stage showcasing the remarkable skill, stunning movement, and spectacular imagery of kung fu in a dynamic new production.

Featuring rarely seen Buddhist meditation alongside deadly martial-arts prowess, this breathtaking extravaganza starring 22 kung fu masters follows the journey from a young child’s initiation into the monastery, to achieving fully fledged warrior status through diligent training and study. In addition to the incredible kung fu feats, the show also reflects the profoundness of Chinese Buddhism, the “Unity of Zen and Martial Arts”.

3. Early Bird extension for Maruyama Sensei Byron Bay seminar 2011

Maruyama Sensei

Maruyama Sensei

Registrations for the ‘Maruyama Sensei 2011 in Byron Bay’ seminar (Friday14th – Monday 17th October) have been steady, but there are still some places left. To encourage firther pre-registration, we have decided to extend Early Bird cut-off date to the end of September for any pre-registrations with online (or cheque / money order) payment.

Kind regards,

Elizabeth Andel

Aikido Yuishinkai

http://www.aikidoinbyron.com, http://www.aikidoyuishinkai.com

4. Seniors classes are back

aikido-brisbane-seniorsIn response to interest expressed by senior students we are bringing back monthly Seniors Classes on a trial basis. They will be held on the last Thursday of the month at our Nathan dojo commencing Thursday 29th September.

These classes for 2nd kyu and above will be led by Steve Dows Sensei on the back mat while the normal Thursday class will continue on the front mat by Gary Sensei. Our senior students at Everton Hills dojo are warmly welcomed.

5. Instructors’ night 10th November

On Thursday night 10th November we will hold an instructors’ night at Nathan dojo for our current instructor group as well as those interested in becoming an instructor (2nd kyu and above). The session will not be about technique. It will cover a range of issues relevant to the role of instructor – for example, safety, interacting with students, tips and traps and dealing with problems on the mat. The normal Thursday night class will proceed on the front mat.

6 Thought for the week

“Peace begins with a smile.” Mother Teresa

Shukan News 29th August

Griffith Aikido Brisbane

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

1. Eri is a Mum

EriCongratulations to Eri who gave birth to a beautiful baby boy, Ethan Martin, last Monday at 4.30pm. We are told that both Mother and child are doing well, and Dad Michael is holding up ok too.

Eri is one of our seniors who trained with us for several years. We are hoping that she brings Ethan in soon to show us. We also look forward to seeing Eri back on the mat sometime in the future.

We extend our best wishes to Eri and Michael. Why stop at one?

2. Who were the Samurai?

samurai

Samurai in armour, 1860s. Hand-coloured photograph by Felice Beato.

Samurai in armour, 1860s. Hand-coloured photograph by Felice Beato.
The samurai were an elite class of medieval Japanese warrior. Their code of honour, known as Bushido, was based on the principle of self respect and absolute loyalty to the master they served. It was their way of life.

The samurai originated as servants of the emperor, probably as early as the 8th century. They served as palace guards and upheld the emperor’s authority in the provinces. Over time however, the samurai evolved into a noble class of mounted warrior and their allegiance shifted from the emperor to the daimyo (territorial lord) of their own clans.

In the early 11th century, feudal estates headed by daimyo and protected by samurai, came to dominate Japanese politics. Two of the most powerful clans, the Taira and Minamoto, fought for control at a time when the imperial court was in decline.

The Taira originally seized control but was subsequently defeated by the Minamoto, who claimed land and certain powers including taxation rights, from the central government and aristocracy. A feudal system was established, based in Kamakura, backed by a private military – the samurai.

Minamoto no Yoritomo was declared shogun (military ruler) of the Kamakura Shogunate. Although the concept of shogun was not new, this now powerful and politically based shogunate system would endure (not always peacefully) in Japan for centuries to come.

At this early time, the bow, rather than the sword, was the samurai’s weapon of choice.

It wasn’t until the 14th century, when major advances were made in the development of steel blade technology and blacksmith methods, that the sword became the samurai’s principal weapon.

A blacksmith called Masamune Okazaki is credited with producing a dual structure of soft and hard steel that improved the endurance and cutting power of the curved blade which became the Katana.

Skill with the two-handed sword, not the bow, was now the mark of a great warrior.

The samurai’s loyalty to their lords was unsurpassed. They were highly skilled warriors who were both trustworthy and honest. They lived frugal lives with no interest in riches and material things. They preferred to live their lives with impeccable honour and pride.

They were men of true valour. Samurai had no fear of death. They would enter any battle regardless of the odds. They believed that to die in battle would only bring honour to their family and to their lord.

The samurai class was finally abolished in 1876 after the Meiji restoration, when the emperor ended their right to be the only armed force in Japan, and introduced a modern, Western style conscripted army.

While the samurai numbered less than 10% of Japan’s population, samurai teachings can still be found today in everyday life and in modern martial arts such as Aikido and Kendo.

3. Thought for the week

“Nobody can bring you peace but yourself.” Ralph Waldo Emerson

Shukan News 22nd August

Griffith Aikido Brisbane

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

1. Adult grading at Nathan last Saturday

brisbane-aikido (2)It was another grading of high quality last Saturday with 9 members demonstrating what they had learned. Tami and Rob were fantastic in their 6th kyu grading. Their pre grading practice was obvious as they showed us good hanmi changes, good entries and and correct footwork. Even better, they both stayed incredibly calm and very relaxed. Very well done!

Rodney did a great job on his 5th kyu grading demonstration. Rod is a 2-3 times a week regular and it shows. His technique was good, his centerline was upright, and he appeared very smooth and very relaxed in his techniques. A great job!

As a group, what to work on for next time? Never turn your back on your opponent.

Jason admitted to a few nerves coming into his 4th kyu grading, but it didn’t show and he just keeps getting better with each grading. For a tall guy he moves well and maintains a good upright centerline. He demonstrated all of his techniques very well and controlled Uke quite closely. Very impressive!

Bartek, Ken, Kylie and Danny all performed high quality 2nd kyu demonstrations.

Danny was very purposeful and controlling. As always he was quite martial in his approach and kept weight underside very well.

Like all in this group, Ken has been training regularly and he continues to improve with each grading. His movement and technique was very good and for the most part appeared calm and composed throughout.

Kylie was calm and in control throughout but she started to tire a little towards the end of taninzugake. Impressively, she quickly brought her breathing under control and was very composed during her weapon kata.

Bartek appeared a lot calmer than usual throughout what was a very competent demonstration. He puts it all down to a couple of pre-grading pain killers for his troublesome back but I suspect some talent and a lot of practice also had a bit to do with it as well.

As a group, what to work on for next time? The basics will always hold you in good stead. Continue to relax and let Uke do the work. Slow down a little! Adding speed just to get through a technique quickly can expend energy and compromise form. If a technique is going to work it will work slowly and much better when you are relaxed.

Dean has come such a long way on his Aikido journey to date. Like a fine wine he continues to improve with age and experience. He is tall but keeps a very upright stance. How he managed to turn under Lachlan’s arm in Shihonage without stooping, I will never know. It was obvious that relaxation and economy of movement were the main goals for his 1st kyu grading; and he did it very well. Dean will now wear a hakama in the dojo and I can hardly wait for his shodan grading.

Congratulations to all who graded and thank you so much to all those who volunteered as Uke.

2. Shodan grading at Everton Hills

aikido-brisbane-EH1On Saturday, 17th September, Everton Hills Dojo will be holding Shodan Gradings for Darren Richardson and Ian Grant. Visiting Ukes are cordially invited for the occasion to support Darren and Ian.

The session will run from 10.30am -12.30pm and there will be a pizza lunch afterwards. I am currently talking to the PCYC Management about an extension of time and won’t have an answer till Wednesday. Should that not be possible all proceedings will have to be completed by 12.30.

 

Hoping to welcome many visitors!

Best wishes,

Rod Sensei

3. Thought for the week

“There never was a good war or a bad peace.” Benjamin Franklin

Brisbane Aikido – Nanba the art of physical finesse

In the run up to the WILLIAM REED Brisbane Aikido and Nanba seminar, here is an example of NANBA WALK. These videos have been posted on You tube by William Reed Sensei. You can check out other videos by clicking on this link.

Shukan News 15th August

Griffith Aikido Brisbane

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

1. Griffith Aikido Brisbane – grading next Saturday

aikido-brisbaneOur Nathan dojo quarterly grading will be held next Saturday, 20th August. It has been brought forward by a week so that it doesn’t clash with the Redlands Aikido ‘William Reed’ seminar to be held on following weekend.

Aikikids grading will take place in normal class time. Adult grading will start at the usual class time of 10.30 am. Spectators are welcome.

2. The sounds of fun

On the first Tuesday of this month, a breath of fresh air swept through Nathan dojo in the form of nine new members eager to give Aikido a try. It was so nice to hear the sounds of fun. It is a sure sign of people enjoying their learning.

Through July, our numbers had dropped a little as happens every year due to the cold weather and things were a little quiet. But as spring approaches, the vibrant atmosphere of the Nathan dojo has returned, and will continue to do so as more members return with the warmer weather.

3. Brisbane Aikido special – William Reed Sensei

Don’t forget the Redlands Aikido ‘William Reed’ Brisbane seminar to be held from Friday to Sunday 26th – 28th August 2011 at the Cleveland District High School, Russell Street, Cleveland.

Pay online. It is cheaper than the door prices:

  • Entire seminar (Fri-Sun) $125 (door price $150)
  • Weekend only (Sat & Sun) $110 (door price $130)
  • Friday evening Nanba $15 (door price $20)
  • Saturday only $60 (door price $70)
  • Sunday only $60 (door price $70)

Concession rates available.

Contact Anthony to register your interest or for more info 0432 282 577

William Reed Sensei

reed_sensei1

As a university student, William Reed Sensei first came to Japan in 1972 and began a lifelong journey into Japanese language and culture. In nearly 40 years Sensei has, amongst many impressive things: achieved the rank of 7th dan in Aikido, become a qualified Nanba instructor, published 7 books in English and Japanese (including an Amazon no. 1 bestseller), become a teacher of Shodo (Japanese brush calligraphy), certified as a Guerrilla Marketing Master Trainer, become a Mind Mapping Instructor, certified as a World Class Speaking Coach, and mastered tap dancing. Aside from running his own business in Tokyo, Sensei currently writes professionally and lectures as a guest at 3 Japanese universities.

Sensei will be teaching aspects of Aikido Yuishinkai as well as introducing Nanba – The Art of Physical Finesse. Nanba is a set of techniques and principles for using one’s body in an energy-efficient manner. It is excellent for creating more vitality and enjoyment in one’s life, whilst minimising daily stress, fatigue, and the potential for injury. Nanba is suitable for anyone, regardless of age, experience, gender or physique, and is also perfect for serious students of Aikido Yuishinkai.

More about Nanba and William Reed Sensei at:

http://www.nanbanote.com, http://www.williamreed.jp

4. Japanese Bon Festival

Yasaka-shrine-GionIn Japan, the Bon Festival is held from 13th –16th August. Bon is a Buddhist festival that honours deceased relatives. Lasting four days, this is the most important festival of the summer. Traditionally, people will light lanterns and place them outside their houses. The lights are there to guide the spirits on their journey home.

5. Thought for the week

“You can’t shake hands with a clenched fist.” Indira Gandhi

Shukan News 8th August

Monday 8th August 2011

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

1. Aikido motion capture – colour by speed

Well here’s something different! The link to this video was sent in by one of our members.

The video below uses colour to represent speed. It shows the extremities of stylized figures moving quickly while the hips move relatively slowly. It explains the apparent blur of speed of Aikido technique as observed by the onlooker while Nage (the thrower) moves relatively slowly at the centre.

It is one a several fascinating videos posted on You Tube by ‘Adaptive Perception’ that highlights the circular and blending nature of Aikido.

2. Customer vs Student

The following is a very relevent article posted on the Budo Beyond Technique blogsite.

“Are you a customer or student of martial arts? There is no wrong answer; but, there is a difference.

In the context of martial arts, a martial arts customer is someone who comes for exercise, basic self defence, or status of just taking a martial art. A martial arts student is someone who trains for the love of the art, gives back to the art by helping others and is there for self improvement not the next belt.

There are probably extremely few people who start out as a student of the martial arts. Most come in for their own reasons such as self defence, a change in workout routines, gain confidence, a goal of getting a black belt, etc. Hopefully the atmosphere of the dojo and especially of the sensei will show the customer there is much more to martial arts then memorizing a bunch of techniques. This is just the very beginning.

The longer the new member stays with the dojo the more they should become a student. The rules and discipline may seem foreign and over the top for many people. But, not only are they there for safety; but, respect for each other and the art itself. This is most likely the first of endless layers the new member will experience. Sensei with the help of senior members of the dojo will guide the new member as far as they would like to go. Hopefully, their example and guidance will peak the new member’s curiosity and start them on a long and rewarding journey of becoming a student for life.”

3. Maruyama Sensei seminar

Maruyama Sensei

Maruyama Sensei

The 2011 annual seminar with Maruyama Sensei will be held in mid October. Details have now been released. Once again the seminar will be hosted by the Byron Bay Aikido Club at Goshinkan dojo. The Yurt is also available for overnight stays but you will need to be quick to make a reservation.

The seminar will run from Friday14th – Monday 17th October 2011. There will be 3 days of Aikido (Friday, Saturday & Sunday) and I day of Shindo (Yuki) healing on the Monday. Full details including prices are on the attached flyer. Please note that the Early Bird date is 30th August.

Accommodation should be a little easier and cheaper this year because the seminar is not in the school holiday period. NSW state schools return for Term 4 on Monday 10th October. Queensland state schools return for Term 4 on Monday 3rd October.

Elizabeth has recommended Byron Beach Realty for house rentals. Website http://www.byronbeachrealty.com.au email bbrealty@bigpond.net.au

PLEASE CLICK ON THIS FLYER FOR SEMINAR DETAILS Maruyama Sensei October Seminar

4. Thought for the week

“Peace is not absence of conflict; it is the ability to handle conflict by peaceful means.” Ronald Reagan

Shukan News 1st August

Monday 1st August 2011

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

1. Maruyama Sensei seminar – bookings open

Maruyama Sensei

Maruyama Sensei

For those of you who were hanging out for the details of this year’s Maruyama Sensei seminar, details have just been released. Once again the seminar will be hosted by the Byron Bay Aikido Club at Goshinkan dojo. The Yurt is also available for overnight stays but you will need to be quick.

The seminar will run from Friday14th – Monday 17th October 2011. There will be 3 days of Aikido (Friday, Saturday & Sunday) and I day of Shindo (Yuki) healing on the Monday. Full details including prices are on the attached flyer. Please note that the Early Bird date is 30th August.

Please read this flyer Maruyama Sensei October Seminar

Elizabeth advises that she will distribute an email advice concerning links to house rentals soon.

2. Thank you to the Market Day stall helpers

Thank you very much to the 5 people who generously gave their time last week to help out on the Griffith Aikido Market Day stall at Griffith Uni Nathan Campus. We really appreciate your time and effort. You will find a little thank you coming your way today.

3. A wonderful seminar on the weekend

aikido-brisbane-EH1The Murray Loader seminar held last weekend was a roaring success. On Saturday we were at our target comfort capacity of 40 people on the mat. On Sunday we welcomed 30 people. It was lovely to catch up with some visitors we hadn’t seen for a while.

On Saturday morning we learnt a lot about Aikido with Ki. Even the most basic of Ki exercises “unbendable arm’ took on a new significance. On Saturday afternoon we were treated to a wonderful weapons lesson. Murray Sensei is a student of the sword art and provided many helpful insights into our curriculum weapons kata.

On Sunday morning we saw examples of the old Daito Ryu combat techniques contained within our modern Aikido hand art. It was astonishing to see two sides of the same technique. In most cases, the physical differences were quite small. However, the major difference was intent.

We would like to thank Murray and Louise for making the trip to Brisbane, and we hope to welcome them back again soon. We also extend our warmest thanks to Lenore and Neil (Lachlan’s Mum & Dad) for the great lunch of pumpkin soup and sandwiches on Saturday.

4. Our new suggestion box

As a result of the feedback received at our planning day, we now have a suggestion box at Nathan dojo. You can’t miss it! Jutta has gone to great lengths to make a lovely colourful box for the occasion. It will sit on the reception table by the dojo door. Contrary to popular opinion, the box does have a bottom in it, and hasn’t been designed to fit neatly over the shredder. Inside the box, you will find pencil and paper. We encourage you to give us your feedback and ideas. We don’t mind whether you sign your name or not. Either way, your suggestion will be considered by the Committee at the next scheduled meeting. If you do sign your name we will advise you personally of the outcome.

5. Thought for the week

“The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong.” Gandhi