Does my memory serve...

[trwhite]

A long time ago, when I was 18 or so (I’m 37 now), I briefly studied Aikido in Florida. One of the things that stuck me about it was how I seemed to have more energy AFTER practice than before, as if I was somehow absorbing or opening myself to a source of well being.

You know, after reading that last paragraph, I feel somewhat silly. I’m not given to wild statements of a spiritual nature, but the truth is that is how I felt.

I have been considering attending the Saint Louis Ki Society, but I was hoping if someone could tell me if this seems like a true experience, or am I coloring my memories?

Thanks in advance for any response’s.

[J. Nachtrab]

I wouldn't say I have more energy after practice, but I almost invariably feel better.  Calmer, more centered, something like that.  Doesn't seem to matter what stress or irritation I have when I step on the mat, when I step off at the end of practice, I'm almost always in a better mood.

I suppose there are also classes where I'm just getting going by the time class is wrapping up, so I'm energized and ready for another hour or two.  That might be similar to what you're thinking of.  

In short, yes - practice always improves my disposition in one way or another.

[Adam]

I suppose it depends on the type of practice or where I'm at in my training. When I first started, I suppose I had the feeling you described... but I think it had more to do with the fantasy I had of being one step closer to becoming an invincible fighting machine.

Now-a-days, that "energy" comes from the discovery of things I *thought* I knew. When that happens, I'll want to keep training, talk after class, try it out on the wife when I get home... However, I think that renewed energy or sense of well-being can come from anything you enjoy doing, whether that be martial-arts, sports or gardening.

I can't remember the last time I left the dojo in a bad mood.

Where in Florida did you train?

[trwhite]

Thank you both for replying.

I don’t think I had any illusions as to becoming invincible, but I think you might be right about it being more about doing something I truly loved. There is something about Aikido that simply draws me.

To answer your questions;

I trained at Suncoast Aikido, in Saint Petersburg.

My Sensei was Dennis Meno.

[bucketman]

HI, I currently train under Sensei Dennis Meno, and I must say your memory does serve you correct. I’m 34 now and I started training with Sensei Meno when I was 19. I remember when I was younger I would leave his classes and be full of youthful energy, especially leaving his Ki building classes. Now that I’m older, I find myself more centered and focused. I can still access energy after class to perform high energy drumming, but this time I’m more selective and controlled when  I assert this energy. Your Ki energy is endless and Sensei Meno instills this in his lessons. So, my answer is that maybe our age and Ki experience has a lot to do with our ability (to have more energy after class, then before).

bucketman