Linda Eskin Writes About Aikido, Learning, Training, Discovery, and Connection
Big ideas seem to come together for me in the morning, perhaps before the rational, detail-oriented part of my brain comes online and takes charge. … Read more …
When I tested for 2nd kyu, almost a year ago now I was required to demonstrate the 31 jo kata. The 31 jo kata is … Read more …
Today marks the beginning of the four-week countdown to my first kyu exam on March 9. I spent the afternoon training with friends, and the … Read more …
My 2nd kyu Aikido exam, on 21 January, 2012. Many thanks to my mentor and uke, Cyril Poissonnet, 3rd Dan, whose teaching, coaching, and encouragement have been an important and happy part of my Aikido training from the beginning, and to Dave Goldberg Sensei, and all the teachers and students at Aikido of San Diego.
It’s been a steady stream of “aha” moments since my exam yesterday. More to come on that soon.
As usual, here’s my exam video. You can watch it here, or go to YouTube (where you can post comments, if you like):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tin-jzgLmWI&hd=1
This link goes to the HD version – probably best watched full-screen. If you have a slower connection, change to one of the lower-res versions.
Feedback (which I know will be constructive, even if it’s critical!) is welcome. I’m pretty happy with how I did, but of course can see lots of things to work on for next time.
I figure now that I have 4 exam videos, they deserve their own playlist. So here it is, starting at 6th kyu (in case you have nothing better to do). LOL http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0F5D81895C5E5A30
My 6th kyu exam has around 9,500 views so far. Every month or two I get a nice comment from someone who’s been encouraged in some way by my exam videos (usually a new student who is freaking out about taking their first test, as I was). One of my favorite comments came in a few hours ago, and just made my day:
“You’re amazing, Linda-sama. I started train Aikido last week, but before – I had lot of doubts: if I am too old, people are bad, everything will be bad. I’m waiting about two years for my first train. But i taste it, and became addicted of this art. Thank you, for recording. Good luck! (sorry about my english)”
A few days ago I posted a note to myself on preparing for my upcoming 3rd kyu exam. My test is tomorrow morning. Here’s how … Read more …
Test Date: Saturday, 9 July, 2011,Test Time: Immediately following a 9 a.m. class Dear Self, You will have a happier day, and a more successful … Read more …
This post is meant to help beginning students listen for and understand the technique names we hear in class (especially those on our 6th Kyu … Read more …
“Your form was fine.” Sensei said when he came to discussing my 4th-kyu test. He was giving us each feedback in the post-exam circle of … Read more …
I keep forgetting and remembering important events on my Aikido path, and our organization doesn’t use kyu books. So before I misplace any entirely I … Read more …
