For the month of October here at DC Aikido, we've been supplementing our Martial Arts training with particular attention to the idea of acknowledgement. 

Let's take a moment to discuss the word acknowledgement. It is much more than just "thanking a person." It is recognition or favorable notice of an act or achievement. It speaks to the being, essence, or energy of a person. It shows that you are acutely aware his or her existence and you are thankful to share a piece of your life with him or her.

Notice that most of us are “funny” about acknowledgement. That is, we may crave it and we certainly love it when someone is acknowledging us. However, we often deflect it when it is given and we hardly ever ask for it. Odd, isn’t it: one of the most delightful things we can experience in life is the very thing we won’t ask for and actively deflect when provided....

Below is an account of one of DC Aikido's newer students' experiences in Japan...

Below are a few thoughts on DC Aikido's trip to Japan from one of our newer students...

How was DC Aikido’s trip to Okinawa?  I don’t even know where to start.  I had only been a part of the DC martial arts scene for a couple of months before we left, so I was a little nervous about what I was getting myself into.  But I can honestly say that every single thing I did for those ten days was a blast.  Let me start by talking about our hosts.  They could not have been more excited for us to be there, and they were unabashed in showing it.  Inside the dojo, they tried (usually in vain) to help me find my ki.  Outside the dojo, they tried (much more successfully) to help me find my inner party-er.  Every night was a dinner party, and our hosts made sure that our cups were...

Each month, DC Kids Karate instructors determine a Character Builder to focus on. This principle will help the students achieve greatness in their martial arts training as well as in their personal lives. A main goal of the character builder program is to show students some concrete ways in which their training on the mat can influence their lives off the mat.

This month's character builder for our DC Kids Karate Youth Classes is POTENTIAL; at the dojo, at home, and at school! We want the students to think beyond what they're "good at" and understand that every challenge is an opportunity for growth. Additionally, we would like to teach them to accept that everyone has strengths and weaknesses, and not to let comparative terms like 'bad' shy them away from...

In preparation for this August's Trip to Japan, one of the Martial Artists here at DC Aikido has given us insight into some of the culture our fellow artists can expect to see when they depart Washington DC!