“bright outlook and happy disposition”

Apr 18
2009
Masa
Kokoro

I first met Ben Sensei in 2007 when he occasionally taught at the Calgary Aikikai. His enthusiasm and expertise left a lasting impression on me, so much so that I joined SAIT Aikido. Ben always focuses on the positive and instils a “can do” attitude among his students. This applies to life’s challenges too and I always find myself reacting in a positive way, or trying to, when things get difficult. He continually emphasizes the practical aspects of Aikido, protecting vulnerable areas and pointing out aspects of the techniques that increase effectiveness. Another compelling characteristic is his bright outlook and happy disposition – life is too short not to be! Lest we forget, we should savour the time on the mat and enjoy the journey.

Weapons training with Sensei was certainly an eye-opener for me. I’ve been practicing now for about five years (in US, Indonesia, Japan & Canada) and instantly Ben Sensei made me aware of shortcomings of my technique, areas where I was vulnerable, the importance of timing and real intent. It helped me focus and strive to improve areas of weakness. It guided me back in the right direction.

For those of us who have had the privilege of training with Ben Sensei, I am sure we have all benefited in some way from his teachings, whether it be technical and/or philosophical. If you haven’t trained with Ben yet, please consider it an opportunity not to be missed!

Congratulations Sensei on your well-deserved promotion to 4th Dan.

- Andy Morton

This is from: Student Comments

  • Aikido Definition


    The word “aikido” is made up of three Japanese characters: AI – harmony, KI – spirit, mind, or universal energy, DO – the Way. Thus aikido is “the Way of Harmony with Universal Energy.” However, AIKI may also be interpreted as “accommodation to circumstances.” This latter interpretation is somewhat non- standard, but it avoids certain undesirable metaphysical commitments and also epitomizes quite well both the physical and psychological facets of aikido.

  • Aikido Training


    In aikido, as in virtually all Japanese martial arts, there are both physical and mental aspects of training. The physical training in aikido is diverse, covering both general physical fitness and conditioning, as well as specific techniques. Because a substantial portion of any aikido curriculum consists of throws, the first thing most students learn is how to safely fall or roll. The specific techniques for attack include both strikes and grabs; the techniques for defense consist of throws and pins. After basic techniques are learned, students study freestyle defense against multiple opponents, and in certain styles, techniques with weapons.

  • Masa Kokoro Philosophy


    Learn the way of harmony in everyday living through the Japanese Martial Art of Aikido. Stretch your mind power to acquire a calm spirit and enhanced metal focus, to be at one with the universe. It places emphasis on motion and the dynamics of movement. Use of the wooden staff (jo), the wooden sword (bokken), and the wooden knife (tanto) are included along with various hand techniques for blending with the opponent’s attack method.

  • Aikikai Foundation


    Aikido is a Budo (martial art) created by Morihei Ueshiba. After the Founder’s passing in 1969, his son Kisshomaru Ueshiba was inaugurated as Aikido Doshu. At present, Moriteru Ueshiba, grandson of the Founder, has succeeded his father as Aikido Doshu. The Aikikai Foundation, officially recognized by the Japanese government in 1940, was founded in order to preserve and promote the ideals of the true Aikido created by the Founder. As the Aikido World Headquarters, it is the parent organization for the development and expansion of Aikido throughout the world.

Visit Our Friends!

A few highly recommended friends...

Archives

Pages List