Photo from a seminar at Aikido of San Diego
The World Under a Magnifying Glass
“If the aikido training mat is the world, it’s the world under a magnifying glass. Subtle personality quirks are made large and clear. Hidden agendas … Read more …
My Plan for Ruthless Focus & Productivity in 2020
Ten years ago I decided to write a book. I actually did write one – a just-for-fun throw-away I wrote for the learning experience – … Read more …
Writers and Ritual – Bowing In
Bowing in works at the dojo. Why not use the same practice in our writing?
Preparing for an Aikido Exam – The Week Before
Someone in an Aikido group on Facebook has an exam coming up on Saturday. Here’s the gist of his post: “Next Saturday I will do … Read more …
Self-Defense Tip: Use a “Code Word” for Emergencies
Note: It’s been a while since I’ve posted. All is well, training as usual, just focusing my time on my fitness coaching / personal training … Read more …
Aikido – It’s a Lot Like… Handwriting?
When I was training for my nidan test (2nd-degree black belt) it seemed like everything I’d learned previously was wrong. I would do what I … Read more …
Nidan Essay: There’s No Waiting
“There’s your trot.” “Now.” Mark stood in the center of the south end of the arena, near the barn. His long oilskin duster and cowboy … Read more …
Nidan Exam Prep – First Pretest
Tonight, December 14th, 2017, on the third anniversary of my shodan exam (first-level black belt), I did my first pretest for nidan (second-level black belt). … Read more …