An inclusive community for exploring the Japanese martial art of aikido
“To practice Aikido fully, you must calm the spirit and go back to the origin.”
-Morihei Ueshiba, Founder of Aikido
Aikido, a martial way
May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, so it seems like a good time to turn back the clock and look at the Asian American origins of Chicago Aikikai and its place in bringing the Japanese martial art of aikido to the Windy City. [Read more…] about The Asian American Roots of Chicago Aikikai and Aikido in Chicago
Congratulations to Chicago Aikikai members who took their kyu tests last Friday, March 17.
Yvonne Matos (6th kyu)
Martha Lee Turner (5th kyu)
Good job and great work. And thanks to all those who helped them to prepare.
Marsha Turner is Chief Instructor and Dojo-cho (director) of Chicago Aikikai, the city’s oldest dojo (school) for the Japanese martial art of aikido. Assuming leadership in 2012, Turner brings more than 37 years of training under such notable instructors as Mitsugi Saotome, Shihan (Master Instructor) and founder of the Aikikai’s parent organization Aikido Schools of Ueshiba (ASU), and her predecessor, late Chief Instructor Kevin Choate. A former student of ballet and other forms of dance, as well as fencing, Turner is noted for her detail-oriented instruction and proficiency in such areas as traditional Japanese weapons work. In addition to regular classes at the Aikikai, Turner has guest instructed at Winter Term at Oberlin College, the ASU Winter Intensive, and the Midwest Bridge Seminar.
Chicago Aikikai member Dwight Sora interviewed Marsha Turner and put together this video.
Chicago Aikikai welcomes board-certified dance movement therapist Eve Chalom, who will be using the dojo as a base for her work. Eve is also a former competitive figure skater, yoga and qigong teacher, and brain injury specialist (among other areas of expertise). She will be offering private sessions, and an open gentle movement class 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm on select Wednesdays ($20 suggested donation. See healingthroughmovement.squarespace.com for details).
Regular Chicago Aikikai members should note that aikido class will no longer be held on Wednesday evenings, and not to enter the dojo during non-class hours without prior clearance by seniors.
The Chicago Aikikai has been invited by the Asian American Coalition of Chicago to demonstrate at this year’s Asian Heritage Month Celebration. Members of the dojo will showcase basic and advance aikido technique in Chinatown Square on Saturday, May 14 at 2:00 pm. [Read more…] about Asian Heritage Month Aikido Demonstration May 14, 2022