The truth of the matter is that I was over-whelmed with the workshop with John Stevens Sensei presented last Monday at the ITP dojo. It would take a dozen of these articles to cover one-tenth of what he presented. But here, in a much-encapsulated version, is a quick over-view.
The workshop, presented by the ITP dojo and the Western Aikido Association, included senior teachers and instructors like Jack Wada Sensei, Bob Noha Sensei, Scott Berg and others.
Those present began with vocalizing the sounds that O Sensei used. Each of these sounds or vowels, Stevens Sensei explained, had a specific energy that it created. Using these with hand gestures, or mudras, opened up and created energetic vibrations or patterns that brought about a specific result. In essence, this became a portal that one could move through and within.
These chants and movements were then combined with techniques and variations of techniques. One sound combined with a technique like irimi nage produced for many there a new exploration of this much used technique. The same was true for the other techniques we practiced. For many, it was seeing these techniques with fresh eyes.
Steven Sensei explained that this part of O Sensei’s legacy is not emphasized in Japan. It was clear that he was an important source of this important knoweldge that is a core part of O Sensei's legacy. For many there, having this master go into these finer points brought about the realization the vast amount of knowledge he held.
I wrote the next day after the workshop that attending was like being inside a poem. Robert Frager Sensei wrote back, “Beautifully put…”
It was certainly a most unique experience for those who attended. And the conversation about these inner teachings of Aikido continued at a Chinese restaurant until the staff indicated that it was time to leave by beginning to stack chairs at the tables around us.
I will write more about the specific sounds, movements and techniques in a future column.
Thank you John Steven Sensei. And thank you for keeping the heart of Aikido alive and well with your spirit, presence and teachings.
Comments