For me the year 2013 has passed in no time.
There were many seminars held abroad and I feel I have learnt a great deal. I gained things and I was confronted with new tasks. The seminars took place in six countries all together - including the seminars of Shimizu Sensei. That is Germany, Serbia, Slovenia, Russia, Denmark and Mexico.
I want to express my gratitude to the aikido students of each seminar locations for all their efforts.
Thank you very much.
For about 10 years I have been accompanying Shimizu Sensei on his trips abroad. The training thereby is the main issue and by being uke I give support. This time however I stood on the teacher's side and noticed, that my experience as uke has been very helpful.
Being Shimizu Sensei's uke you have to hold yourself in readiness to the highest degree. Maybe you can compare it to a water surface without waves. With clear conscience, your and your partner's movements and the ki flow can be harmonized.
The same applies when teaching. You mustn't be captured by your own emotions, instead I try to catch the mood of the participants, and find a way for for a mutual enriching progress.
Teaching aikido is my profession, but at the same time it provides the opportunity to develop myself. And I am very glad about the chance to be able to meet so many people abroad.
From the bottom of my heart I am looking forward seeing you again.