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After far too long away, I've returned to aikido, since my schedule (at least this semester) will allow me to practice on a night where Charlie (McGinnis, the dojo's sensei, a great teacher, and a long-time friend) will be teaching, as well as one day during the weekend.
I felt great during my first practice last Tuesday. I was actually fairly surprised that I had the wind to get through an entire 1 1/2 hour session. I did get winded -- several times -- but was able to recover and keep going until the session ended. I was surprised at how much muscle memory was retained, and dismayed at how much I've also forgotten. Putting on my hakama before practice and folding it afterward was an exercise in 'not thinking,' as the fingers remembered even if I didn't.
I felt genuinely energized after the practice.
Mind you, getting out of bed the next morning was an interesting experience, since several muscles (especially those in the back of my thighs) were telling me -- in loud and offended tones -- "Excuse me, but just what the hell where you thinking? You haven't used me that much in months."
Today was Kagami Baraki - our New Year's re-dedication ceremony -- and it was good to see everyone on the mat at once, to see friends I've missed, and to help everyone clean the dojo.
It's good to be back!
I felt great during my first practice last Tuesday. I was actually fairly surprised that I had the wind to get through an entire 1 1/2 hour session. I did get winded -- several times -- but was able to recover and keep going until the session ended. I was surprised at how much muscle memory was retained, and dismayed at how much I've also forgotten. Putting on my hakama before practice and folding it afterward was an exercise in 'not thinking,' as the fingers remembered even if I didn't.
I felt genuinely energized after the practice.
Mind you, getting out of bed the next morning was an interesting experience, since several muscles (especially those in the back of my thighs) were telling me -- in loud and offended tones -- "Excuse me, but just what the hell where you thinking? You haven't used me that much in months."
Today was Kagami Baraki - our New Year's re-dedication ceremony -- and it was good to see everyone on the mat at once, to see friends I've missed, and to help everyone clean the dojo.
It's good to be back!