The
Aikido Warriors' Camp
is in its third year.
Initially intended to provide an overview of Aikido practice and philosophy for the uninitiated,
it is also an intense
summer refresher for present students.
This year, we were able to offer the camp twice at Gordon Head Recreation Centre again.
The camps
typically begin with morning warm-ups and a jog.
The objective is to open with
a nice, light refreshing workout in the morning air,
and for the students to get used to moving around as a group.
Functioning and working as a team is one of the objectives
of the camps;
a reflection of the military legacy of the martial arts.
It reinforces the importance of being conscious of all
teammates, of teamwork,
and how every action and decision affects the whole. "No
one is left behind."
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A team-game normally follows the jog, illustrating and reinforcing the need to
work together, being mindful of one's team mates, working out strategies,
leading the team,
and delegating responsibilities. |
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Frisbee Game |
Fox & the Hen |
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Soccer |
Capture the Flag |
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Daily
practice included the observance of
Aikido etiquette and discipline.
After the normal dojo warm-up, students
are then brought through
basic unarmed
and weapons training.
Present
students used the opportunity to refine
their technique and expand their understanding
of Aikido - especially as it applies in daily life.
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Apart
from technique,
the camps reinforced the importance
of developing oneself from the inside;
beginning with proper etiquette, respect,
discipline, self-reliance, accountability,
being responsible, and being
conscious of one's decisions and actions.
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The importance of visualising and setting goals ... |
... reinforced through puzzles... |
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Reflection... |
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Inner focus, control and centredness ... |
...also revealed through calligraphy. |
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This year, knowing proper etiquette included
social etiquette (being in harmony with the community),
communication, and table manners
(including table setting).
Further exploring the meaning of Aikido in daily life;
harmonising with one's environment and
with others in everyday situations and settings.
Knowing and doing what is appropriate,
when it is appropriate.
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Games served to reveal personal attitudes,
beliefs, and sowed the seeds of self-discovery...
... going beyond assumptions,
taking charge of one's responsibilities,
and being more sensitive to choices,
and others.
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After going around the pole, feeling breathless and dizzy... then... |
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... threading a needle, trying to focus and be calm... |
... even transferring items using chopsticks ... |
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Learning to be specific in thought, word and deed... |
... through the experience of being unable to see... |
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... remembering faces and names... |
Being alert and quick, in "Dog & the Bone".
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Students were also introduced to the idea of KI.
These exercises required students to be aligned
within themselves - balanced in mind, spirit and body.
Participants also practised multiple attacks.
These exercises
demonstrated the importance of movement,
centredness, and going with the flow.
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The camps ended
with a little demonstration,
along with the presentation of certificates.
Thanks and appreciation go to parents and students
for making the camps possible... and successful.
The attitude of your children is impressive.
Thank you for supporting their interest in Aikido.
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Aikido
Warriors' Camp July 2007 |
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Aikido
Warriors' Camp August 2007
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