In this issue: The S.O.S. (Subject of the Season), The Shameless Plug, Kudos
The S.O.S
Being Clear About Ukemi
by Dave Goldberg
It's very typical that Ukemi is seen one-dimensionally. That single dimension usually has to do with falling. While falling is important, it's far from that which makes a good uke, and ukemi that is complete in relation to Self and Nage. Ukemi means receiving, and that receptivity permeates the entire engagement in order to do its part in creating harmony—the point of Aikido. When ukemi is reduced to falling, harmony comes to mean that we agree to fall for each other. C'mon, we can do way better than that. Intellectually, we all know this, but we often don't practice it when it comes right down to real engagement. We forget that Uke is doing Aikido too, and that the unfolding technique does not belong to Nage. If Uke is doing his or her job, the unfolding direction of the engagement will be actively shared by both participants without resistance. This is how reversals and transitions, for instance, are possible. Aikido tells us that there is empowerment in harmony, and that happens much in part because of quality ukemi at multiple dimensions. I believe in an extended definition of Ukemi so there's no misunderstanding the role. To me, ukemi means the art of being actively open to energy. As martial artists on a path of peace, do we really have any other choice? And as we get to that place kicking, screaming, and moaning, we almost always eventually discover that it's okay not to be in resistance despite what cultural convention tells us, and that we are actually more empowered for it. So, as we return to the mat, lets give more dimensional attention to our ukemi so that our practice better expresses Aikido. That starts with sincere giving to set the tone of the engagement (the attack). It should be appropriate to level, clear, and supported by the whole body. As Nage begins to blend with it, actively extend yourself into it even as your balance is being taken. You are blending too. Notice that you can still relatively support yourself and the relationship with your alignment. Don't eject. There's still more to receive. As you recognize Nage starting to apply, let the energy of the throw (or whatever) move through you, and then fall gracefully. Please give this attention. You are kidding yourself if you're practicing Aikido with the belief that it's all contained in Nage's perspective. See you on the mat.
The Shameless Plug
Did you know that this year is ten years for Aikido of San Diego?
We are celebrating it with two major seminar events in 2010. Robert Nadeau Shihan will be with us April 9 to 11. That information is now up on our website, and we are currently taking registrations. Get information and register at: http://aikidosd.com/nadeau_seminar.htm
Then, on September 24-26, we'll be hosting Mary Heiny Sensei for the first time—something I've been wanting to do for a while. That information will be available on our website soon. Learn more about her at: http://maryheiny.com
This Saturday, January 23 we are having a community service day at the Unity Center Ranch in Descanso. It's a beautiful place to hang out for an afternoon. There's one class at 9:30, and then we are leaving at 10:45 sharp. Sign up at the dojo or reply email to let us know you'll be joining us. Bring work gloves and a bag lunch.
On Sunday, January 31, our “Aikido In Focus” series of short workshops continues with a focus on Ukemi. What is it, really? And how can we be more effective with it? As usual, we'll be using some video to get some objectivity on our own training. Info and registration is at: http://aikidosd.com/focus.htm
Kudos
Congrat’s to the following Aikido of San Diego members for their recent promotions:
Bill Huey (4 Kyu), Terry King (6 Kyu), Doug Hooton (6 Kyu), Dave Goldberg (5 Dan)
Congrat’s also to Cyril Poissonnet (one of our senior members) and his wife Theresa on the birth of their son, Kai, in December. I understand Cyril’s already got him practicing break falls.
Copyright © 2009 Dave Goldberg
Visit us at http://www.aikidosd.com/
Comments are always welcome. Simply reply email.
This newsletter may be freely distributed to friends and family, but must be unaltered, and contain the original header and footer. It may not be published in any other forum without the express consent of the author. Newsletters come quarterly (four times/year).
If you are not presently receiving the ASD Newsletter directly and wish to, please go to: http://www.aikidosd.com/newsletter.htm
To remove yourself, reply email to this newsletter with the word "Remove" in the subject.