Organized By Aikido-Ai
Mt. Baldy Zen Center (34.236475, -117.658752)
Train with five top-notch instructors in the external and internal aspects of Aikido, Tai Chi Chuan, Qigong and Zen. Enjoy workshops that explore martial art principles and processes as well as the zen experience. Explore what O-Sensei called “the Great Path beyond technique.” "Always keep your mind as bright and clear as the vast sky, the great ocean, and the highest peak, empty of all thoughts.... Fill yourself with the power of wisdom and enlightenment." ~ Morihei Ueshiba The Mt. Baldy Zen Center’s mountain peaks, pine forest and fresh air create the ideal setting to train. Workshops are held outdoors as well as indoors on mats. Practice zen with the ordained monks and take that clear mind into your martial arts training. Beginners and curious first-timers are welcome. Advanced students and teachers are participants as well. Everyone fits in, and everyone finds plenty to enjoy. The schedule of events begins with early morning meditation with the ordained Zen priests and monks. Workshops are morning, afternoon and evening. Dharma talk on Saturday afternoon. Practice is throughout the rambling camp. There is plenty of time to rest and relax. Enjoy a book. Walk the camp or hike to the local waterfall. Or simply sit back with a cup of coffee or tea and enjoy conversation with new friends. Generous meals and snacks are prepared by the monks. The meals are served buffet style with options for vegetarians, vegans, and omnivores. (Guests coming for a single day will receive lunch with their training package.) To reserve cabin accommodations for the full four days (three nights), please register as soon as possible prior to arrival. Single-day guests can register up to the day of arrival. Please see our website for details: www.aikidoai.com. 2014 RETREAT INSTRUCTORS: FRANK Mc GOUIRK, 7th dan Aikido, certified Tai Chi instructor, Qigong instructor, Limalama weapons instructor, Zen priest CYNDY HAYASHI, 6th dan Aikido, Kyudo 3rd dan, five precepts with Zen Master Seung Sahn. DANIELLE SMITH, 6th dan Aikido, Hakko Ryu Jujutsu 3rd dan, Seibukan Jujutsu 4th dan, Iaido 1st dan; training in Tai Chi Chuan and Chi-Lel Qigong, and certified Pilates instructor. TEJA BELL, 5th dan Aikido, black belt in Tae Kwon Do; has studied Hapkido and practiced Tai Chi Chuan since 1975, and continues to practice and teach Qigong, BaGua, Xing Yi, YiQuan, and Liu He Ba Fa Chuan. Rinzai Zen Priest. MICHAEL SMITH, 5th dan Aikido, Kyudo 2nd dan, and Aikibojitsu 4th dan and Certified Instructor. TIM COLOHAN, JDPSN and Abbot at Golden Wind Zen Center, 1st dan Tai Chi. Registration forms are available at the website www.aikidoai.com