Reports

Aikido and Misogi

From August 19-26, 2017, the ninth Aikido and Misogi seminar with Yoshigasaki Sensei in Bosco Gurin took place, organized by the Ticino Association for Ki Aikido Balerna.
As always, there was misogi and aikido in the morning, and free time in the afternoon for mountain hikes, sunbathing, excursions, other courses, or free training.
Participants came from Switzerland, Germany, France, Italy, the Czech Republic, and Belgium. Michele, Geraldina, Alessandro, and Feres from the Balerna Dojo participated as "uchideshi."

Afternoons

The afternoons were used as usual for mountain hikes, relaxing, or private training. Michal gave Shodo lessons to a small group in the dojo.

Lessons

Yoshigasaki Sensei taught

• Shihonage, in a new way
• Ushiro katatedori
• Fallen, in a new way
• Jodori
• Ryotedori
• Tantodori
• Bokken 2

Capanna Grossalp

To give the kitchen team a day off, Wednesday was reserved for their own activities after the early morning misogi and a hearty breakfast.
Some went down to the valley, and a larger group hiked to the Grossalphütte at 1,907 m. We had pre-ordered and had lunch on the terrace.
The upward journey was along the easy agricultural track, while the descent was via the steeper, direct path. Some of us felt this a bit of a strain on our feet and knees later on.
We then prepared dinner ourselves at Casa Pometta. Many thanks to everyone who helped in the kitchen!

Hair Art

Lin Shouxia, who accompanied her Giuseppe to Bosco Gurin, displayed an unexpected talent one evening. She enhanced the hair of several volunteers. She skillfully braided intricate braids and then decorated the hairstyles with paper flowers and other ornaments. This particularly amused everyone else, who were now able to experience their fellow human beings in even more perfect beauty.

Starry Sky

The weather was kind to us.
Some nights were exceptionally clear.
This allowed Francesco to take impressive photos of the stunning spectacle of the star-studded night sky.

Conclusion

The 2017 Summer Seminar in Bosco Gurin was once again a complete success. The participants were once again able to learn a great deal from the Doshu.
The mat was also very busy in the afternoons, as many of the aikidoka wanted to deepen their techniques or prepare for exams.

We look forward to the seminar in Bosco Gurin next year.
Arrivederci!