This morning (my first morning back in Chicago) I went to the 6:30 a.m. Systema class taught by Choate Sensei of Chicago Aikikai. This is the first Systema class I have taken and I found Choate Sensei's movements that were softer than my usual practice. The Systema training involved more punching and connecting to one's partner. We also worked on some knife techniques which had some similarities with Aikido but also involved more direct interaction and response to your opponent's attack. Choate Sensei was working with me and he mentioned that in Aikido we often don't look at uke when preforming the techniques. He pointed that out in my practice and it is something he has noticed in a lot of Aikido training. Choate Sensei talked about Ushiro Sensei from Summer Camp. Ushiro Sensei said that a lot of Aikido practitioners had weak eyes. When I asked why we Aikidora have this problem, Choate Sensei said that it may be because we are too nice, that we don't want to hurt anyone. This is a good lesson for the day and something I can take back and improve both my own Aikido and my teaching. Another bonus was that I saw and talked to my friend Taro from Summer Camp and we are going to try to meet up again this weekend.
BTW, I am having a great time seeing Irving, Jamie, and sons. My plan is to explore Chicago today and then chill out the rest of the my vacation.
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