The Phoenix (Jersey) School for Therapeutic Arts

MIDORI MAGIC LIGHTS UP THE DOJO

The weekend before Christmas saw the surprise visit to the dojo of Kajihara Midori Sensei - 4th Dan, formerly of Kobayashi Dojos but now forging her own unique path in the world of aikido.

Diminutive in physical stature, she more than made up for it in her aikido prowess and had students, young and older, eating out of the palm of her hand, with her ingenious entry into the world of 'secret steps' 'joining of partners' ki' and her relaxed interaction with everyone on the tatame.

Ably assisted by uchideshi, Bristolian John Philipps who travelled to Jersey with her, the subtle movements and offsetting of opponents' ki was remarkable when executing the techniques on someone an immovable at Chris Clark Sensei.

Wheelchair shodan Ty Nicholson had a wonderful time interacting with Midori Sensei who helped to adapt some of the techniques to wheelchair aikido which led Ty to take a full and active part in the seminars.

At the conclusion to the all too quick seminar, which was enjoyed by approximately twelve students, Midori Sensei and John were presented with a Christmas gift by Roisin Sensei who then went on to present Midori Sensei with a certificate inducting her into the Phoenix Circle of Friendship.