Kenshusei: July 25 - 31

WEEK 4 (part 4 of 4)
The last week. I have to admit I was becoming mentally and physically exhausted. Usually, in class, we watch as a technique is demonstrated for us a few times, and then we practice it on our own. If you're not paying attention to the technique being demonstrated, when it becomes your turn to perform the technique, you are lost and feel really stupid... "What are we doing

Kenshusei: July 18 - 24

WEEK 3 (part 3 of 4)This week was an enjoyable week, getting to know my fellow kenshusei members better, and also having a good time hanging out with the Chicago aikidokas! I think Amjith leaving somewhat forced me to reach out and connect further with the other people around me.
Many aikidokas (people who train in the art of aikido) had been waiting for this day - Sun. July 18th - Test Day!

Kenshusei: July 11 - 17

WEEK 2 (part 2 of 4)By now, we knew everyone living at the dojo fairly well. We were more confident about what to expect this week, in terms of aikido training. It was still exciting to learn so much and to train with so many different people! Much of this week was spent learning 4th kyu techniques (what Amjith and I need to know for our next belt test). David, a fellow kenshusei member, had

Kenshusei: July 1 - 10

About Kenshusei: Amjith and I decided somewhat spontaneously that we wanted to go to a month-long "boot camp" where we would practice aikido about 40 hours a week for the entire month of July! I was so excited - life can't be bad when you're spending your days being thrown and throwing people around! This took place in Chicago at Tenshinkan Dojo, the headquarters of the Aikido Association of