In this class, you will practice principles of action that will make you more effective in your daily life activities as well as your Aikido or other martial arts practice (if you have one).

We will focus on the following:

• Gaining a precise understanding of the structural mechanics of movements, so that you can accomplish more while doing less.
• Executing defense techniques as specific extensions of the attacker’s movements.
• Using intentional projection to establish a more structurally balanced, stable, and mobile way of being and moving.
• Developing a heightened awareness of how you could injure someone, so that you are less likely to hurt your practice partners or use excessive force in real-life situations.
• Facing and executing realistic attacks (in a safe and supportive environment) while anchoring yourself in a state of compassion and power, so that you are better able to control angry, violent impulses.

WHO: This class is open to practitioners of any style or lineage of martial arts. Beginners are welcome! Please note that this class is not designed to replace formal and systematic martial arts instruction. You are welcome to join solo or with a practice partner who will participate with you live in the same room. If you cannot attend live, you are welcome to register for the class and utilize the recordings for individual learning or partner practice.

WHEN: We will meet for approximately 60 minutes on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month at 1:00 PM Eastern Time (New York) on Zoom. Session recordings will be made available to all registered participants.

PRACTICE DETAILS: You will need some space to move around. Dress comfortably (martial arts uniform not required). We will not be practicing throws or rolls; however, you are encouraged to apply the principles you learn in this online class during your in-person martial arts training.

TUITION: sliding scale $25-$100 per person, per month

PAUL LINDEN holds a BA in Philosophy and a PhD in Physical Education. He has been practicing and teaching Aikido for over 50 years and holds a sixth degree black belt in the art. He also holds a first degree black belt in IsshinRyu Karate and a certificate as an instructor of the Feldenkrais Method® of somatic education.