Hi David

Please pass on my thanks to all members at Brisbane Aikikai for once
again hosting an exceptional weekend of aikido training. Shimamoto
Sensei provided a wonderful balance of Zen and aikido principles, the
opportunity to learn from such a highly regarded international
teacher is indeed a privilege.

The weekend of training with Shimamoto Sensei reminds us of all those
key elements which are so important to deepening our understanding
and practice of Aikido .... stability, calmness, awareness, grace and
power, loved his explanation of specific aspects of techniques such
as ikkyo or irimi nage, and use of imagery in our practice like 'the
castle, strong and stable surrounded by waters calm, deep and still'.
The training is all the more enjoyable when there is an enthusiastic
and welcoming spirit from everyone on the mat, from kyu grades to
senior yudansha, a quality so important for the future development
and growth of Aikido in Australia.

Special thanks to members Karen and Tony for their very kind
hospitality. The weekend was very well organised and a credit to all
involved. I look forward to training with many of you again in
January 2006 at the Doshu Seminar in Melbourne which will be very
exciting.

Kind Regards

Catherine
______________________

Catherine Schnell
Head Instructor
Aikido Ryushinkan
Aikido Dojo and Personal Safety and Self Defence Training Centre
First Floor
672b Glenferrie Rd
Hawthorn 3122
Victoria, Australia.
(next to Glenferrie Station - enter from Don Arcade)
Tel. 61 3 9815 3388 Fax. 61 3 9815 3399
Mobile 0418 549 776
http://www.personalsafetyconcepts.com.au




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