From the PBS program Nova, the history and making of the weapon of the Samurai.
This is a Gift
As we were bowing in one night last week somehow we got on the subject of death. I am the oldest current member of the dojo and while my health is good, being 55 means you know the crest of the hill is behind you. And it isn't just death, if you live long enough aging takes your strength, your abilities, and your stamina. Something is coming. I do not know what it might be, but inevitably, whether I know it at the time or not, there will be a last class.
That makes every class a gift.
That makes every class a gift.
Ki Breathing
Ibuki No Ho is the name of the Ki breathing exercise we practice at the beginning of class. Shihan took the time in our last class to teach it to the new students.
Breathing meditations are found around the world so Aikido is not unique in this. Our technique slows the breath, focuses the mind on the energy of breathing, and uses that to allow the person practicing to calm their mind and thoughts and prepare for the class.
The class members arrive at the dojo by ones and twos. People are changing their clothes. Conversations ring out. The mats are open and individuals start to stretch out or roll. Then the instructor claps once. The class lines up. There is a call to attention, a bow to the shomen and the instructor, and then Ibuki No Ho. From that first clap, those steps serve to transition the class away from the outside world. That time is quiet, focused on the meditation, and when it is over, hopefully the student has left work and family and other concerns for later and is ready for Aikido.
Breathing meditations are found around the world so Aikido is not unique in this. Our technique slows the breath, focuses the mind on the energy of breathing, and uses that to allow the person practicing to calm their mind and thoughts and prepare for the class.
The class members arrive at the dojo by ones and twos. People are changing their clothes. Conversations ring out. The mats are open and individuals start to stretch out or roll. Then the instructor claps once. The class lines up. There is a call to attention, a bow to the shomen and the instructor, and then Ibuki No Ho. From that first clap, those steps serve to transition the class away from the outside world. That time is quiet, focused on the meditation, and when it is over, hopefully the student has left work and family and other concerns for later and is ready for Aikido.
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