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WATCH: How Unconventional Hanmi Handachi Shihonage Can Help You Cultivate Grounding in Aikido

by Lia Suzuki
Jul 08, 2025
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Do you do any centering or grounding exercises at your dojo? Do you—or your students—ever feel the need to be more centered, more grounded?

Today’s video picks up where we left off last week. It’s from last year’s 5-Day Summer Camp here in Los Angeles.

If you remember, in last week’s class, we started with kokyu ho and then moved into hanmi handachi kokyu nage—using the form as a way to explore grounding and centering.

In this video, we continue that exploration by working with a somewhat unconventional version of hanmi handachi shihonage—still with the intention of cultivating that same sense of centeredness and groundedness.

I hope today’s video gives you some insight, inspiration, and motivation to take your training—and your Aikido—to the next level.

Let’s dive in. And be sure to stick around until the end for a special announcement.

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Let’s dive in. And be sure to stick around until the end for a special announcement.

🎥 WATCH: Unconventional Hanmi Handachi Shihonage for Grounding | Aikido Summer Camp Training

💬 Question for You:
Let me know in the comments:

  • Do you feel more centered or grounded in your practice lately?
  • And if you’re an instructor, what kinds of centering or grounding exercises do you use with your students?

Lia Suzuki
Author
   • The Teacher
   • Mastering The Shoto
Director: Aikido Kenkyukai International USA

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2025


  • July 30 - August 3 (Registration now open!)
    Aikido Kenkyukai Los Angeles Summer Camp
    Senseis Lia Suzuki and Matt Bridi
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    Lia Suzuki Sensei
    Baarn, Netherlands
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    Düsseldorf, Germany
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A weekly video message from Aikido instructor Lia Suzuki, sharing insights from the dojo, behind-the-scenes moments, and teachings from recent seminars around the world. Whether you're a dedicated practitioner or simply curious about the Aikido path, these short videos offer inspiration, practical wisdom, and a glimpse into real-life martial arts training.
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