For years, I watched senior Japanese Aikido teachers and noticed something that I couldn't quite explain.
They often seemed to move less.
They entered earlier.
They stayed connected in a way that felt completely different.
Recently, I had a realization that helped me understand one of those lessons more clearlyâand it had nothing to do with technique.
In this week's video, I share several observations from training with and watching teachers such as Yamaguchi Shihan and Takeda Shihan, including a story that changed how I think about zanshin.
Watch the video here:
After you've watched it, I'd love to hear your own experiences in the comments.
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đż Your Practice Prompt
During your next class, pay attention to how much movement you are using.
Can you solve problems earlier, with better timing and posture, instead of adding more motion?
Notice moments where a smaller adjustment might create a larger result.
Share your experienceâI read every reply.
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Lia Suzuki
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Director: Aikido Kenkyukai International USA
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