Dare to Tenkan

Thoughts on Aikido Training

The first day of Aikido training is important only because it is the first day. You will probably remember nothing that you did that day. You have entered a foreign territory. It feels foreign because you have been separated from your correct feeling by many years of being taught to win at any cost, be the best at something, or to do things counter intuitively but in socially accepted ways. Welcome. Stay with us. You will grow to love this strange practice. How can quiet movements, falling, rolling, turning, entering and blending change how you are in the world? Just hold on loosely and follow the way. You are in for a slow, wild ride.