In my first Aikido class in Japan back in 1987, I noticed something in the first five minutes that had nothing to do with technique: the senior students were warming up their attention, not just their bodies. This week's video is about what that actually looks like — and the specific routine I still use before every class I take or teach.
I get into why chatting before bow-in has a real cost, how quieting your mind changes what you notice once class starts, and a story about a teacher who seemed to read my mind.
▶️ Watch here:
As always, thank you for training with me each week.
đź’™ Enjoying these weekly Aikido insights?
You can support the project and help keep them coming — starting at just $5/month.
Support the Newsletter →
🌿 Your Practice Prompt
Your first ten minutes on the mat may be shaped by what you do before you bow in. This week, try a small change to those five minutes…
