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About Our Dojo
We Are Dedicated To Excellence
- Mumonkan-Do Aikido of California was formally established in
June, 1990, though its development began in the mid-1980's. Our
intention was (and is) to embrace and maintain the original meaning and
purpose of the Japanese martial ways in general, and Aikido in
particular (as understood and set forth by the founder of Aikido,
Morihei Ueshiba). For an evolutionary history of our dojo, click here.
- We are independent. We are not affiliated with a particular
Aikido association or federation. Although these organizations may have
their merits, they tend to introduce politics into the dojo. We strongly
feel that politics do not belong in the dojo. For this reason, we have
opted to remain independent.
- We firmly believe in the oneness of all religions and we welcome
individuals from all religious backgrounds and all spiritual traditions.
- We focus on the cultivation of the mind and spirit through
physical training. We view the physical techniques as means to an end
rather than as ends in themselves. The end is the cultivation of the
mind and spirit as well as the ultimate realization of the universal
principle of harmony.
- We teach in a manner that helps students to attain a high degree
of effectiveness in terms of their ability to defend themselves. But we
also teach in a manner that incorporates the philosophical and spiritual
aspects of the art. This, in turn, gives the student a more profound
understanding of Aikido.
- We cultivate the martial virtues as part of the training. The
Samurai warriors of Feudal Japan lived their lives according to the code
of Budo which encourages the development of rectitude, courage,
benevolence, courtesy, sincerity, honor, and loyalty. These virtues are
as important now as they were centuries ago.
- Our training methods help lead the student to oneness of body and
mind. By diligently practicing the techniques, the body gradually comes
to move in accordance with the wishes of the mind. Ultimately, the
student comes to move his or her body freely and unself-consciously.
There is no gap between the movement of the mind and that of the body.
- We strive to achieve our mission not only through our training
methods by also by providing information and inspiration through
handouts and books. We offer a syllabus which is comprised of various
articles and anecdotes. This syllabus is designed to give students an
enhanced understanding of martial art training in general and Aikido
training in particular. Also available is a book written by the head
instructor, Parker Sensei, entitled In
Search of Harmony.
- Because we are dedicated to preserving the original purpose and
meaning of the Japanese martial arts, we keep our standards high. All of
our instructors have a minimum of 14 years training in the Art of
Aikido. The head instructor has over 21 years of experience.
Additionally, rank is not easily earned; nor is rank the guaranteed
result of testing. The testing process develops physical skill; however
this is only one aspect of rank achievement. Strong emphasis is also
placed on the student's attitude, depth of character, compassion, inner
strength, and courage. Students are not required to obtain rank; indeed,
students are highly discouraged from pursuing rank as a means of ego
aggrandizement.
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