The big event in November was of course Sensei Jaque Payet visiting the UK for another excellent Sendokan dojo seminar at High Wycombe Judo Centre. There was a lot of expectation for the 6th Dan Uchi Deshi of Shioda Kancho Senior and he didnt fail to meet it. With a very peaceful air and no pretension of his illustrious career in Aikido, the seminar made all who attended review their kamae physically and mentally. With an exquisite demonstration of pure balance, Payet Sensei demonstrated how true mastery of this principle can overcome brute strength. If you havent had opportunity to read Shidoda Kanchos book Aikido Shugyo it was co-translated by Payet Sensei and comes highly recommended, if you are lucky enough to find a copy.
Balance was the subject for many students at Manor Leas primary the first week of November. In a collaboration for healthy schools week Eiryukan Aikido gave over a hundred children the opportunity to try their skills at Aikido and think how it could help them lead a more healthy lifestyle. The overall feedback was very positive and two of the attendees started attending the regular class in the school. Good luck to them in their Aikido journey.
