Practicing Aikido since 2001
"I love practicing Aikido for many reasons:
1. It always leaves me feeling clearer, happier, and more energized afterwards.
2. It is a "total" workout - heart, mind, body, and soul.
3. It is always teaching me about how to better connect -- with other people, myself, and the floor!
4. I can see myself practicing till I die - always room for growth and new things to discover while always possible to train under any condition.
5. I love the friends and community that I have become a part of over the years - formed through sweat and trust and physical connection.
I love practicing at Naka Ima Aikikai because:
1. The Sensei's are great examples: they walk their talk.
2. There is room for improvising and finding my own way, while also a clear sense of the teachings and forms for guidance.
3. The people are friendly and kind and respectful.
4. We focus in this dojo on respectful relationships and staying connected with each other as the glue to being able to influence our partners in a positive way. As a father, husband, and therapist, and teacher, that resonates with my core values on a deep level.
There is so much more to say, but best to just experience it in actual practice together.
I always tell friends who are curious to come and take a free trial class to see if it's the right fit for you."