Old Orchard Beach/Saco Adult and Community Education

The Art of Peace

This traditional Japanese martial art teaches relaxation, mindfulness and compassion for oneself and others. The Japanese chant "Masakatsue, Agutsu, Katsu ha ya bi" in English means "true victory, self victory, let that day arrive right here, right now." Learn to blend and harmonize with the attacker and bring conflict to a peaceful resolution. The goal is to be able to do the same for ourselves, knowing that, at times, we can be our own worst enemies. In Aikido, we learn coping skills to enable us to become more intimate and loving toward ourselves. In traditional Aikido, there are major throws to the mat. In this class, however, we will explore the movements without the throws. If you can walk, you can do Aikido. Come and enjoy.

Required: Proof of registration. Please wear loose, comfortable clothing; bring water and a towel.

Ron Houle is a 5th Dan in Aikido. He has been practicing and teaching for 35 years. He teaches at Portland Aikido and developed a program called Clinical Martial Arts.