Na Grobli Aikikai

It's over! Jenny Flower sensei from Athens Aikido and Robert Savoca sensei from Brooklyn Aikikai and Piotr Masztalerz sensei from Wrocław Aikikai at Wrocław Aikikai Summer Camp 2026 in Brzezinka

Welcome to our Dojo Terminology & Etiquette Series.

Throughout the coming weeks we’ll be exploring some of the Japanese words, concepts, and traditions that help shape our training both on and off the mat.

First up: Zanshin (Remaining Mind).

The technique may end, but awareness continues.

Let’s begin.

DOJO TERMINOLOGY SERIES - REI (礼)
More than a bow.
A recognition of the value in another person.
The foundation of Aikido practice and healthy relationships.
Respect first. Technique second.

Newcastle Aikido terminology series -
KOKYU (呼吸) – Breath Power

One of the words you’ll hear a lot around the dojo is Kokyu.

It literally means “breath”, but in Aikido it’s much more than just breathing.

Kokyu is the connection between mind, body and movement. It’s what allows us to stay calm when things get challenging, move with purpose rather than force, and find power through relaxation instead of tension.

You’ll often hear Sensei remind students to breathe.

Not because they’ve forgotten, but because when we’re under pressure, our first instinct is often to hold our breath and tighten up.

Aikido teaches a different way.

Breathe. Relax. Connect.

Whether you’re training on the mat, sitting in Zazen, practising Misogi, or dealing with the challenges of everyday life, Kokyu reminds us to return to our centre.

Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do isn’t push harder.

It’s take a breath.

Newcastle Aikido dojo terminology and etiquette series-
MA-AI | 間合い

Often translated as “distance” or “timing,” but Ma-ai is more than either.

It’s the ability to recognise what is needed, when it is needed, and how much is needed.

Too close and you create collision.
Too far and you lose connection.

In Aikido, Ma-ai is not just measured in steps or metres. It’s measured in awareness.

The right distance.
The right timing.
The right response.

On the mat, Ma-ai helps us move with harmony rather than force.

Off the mat, it reminds us that wisdom often lives in the space between action and reaction.

Dziękujemy Krzyki Aikikai za wspólny trening i czekamy na kolejne, jak najszybsze spotkanie!

Dziękujemy Piotr Masztalerz Shihan, oraz przyjaciołom z Wrocław Aikikai, Legnica Aikikai, Na Grobli Aikikai, Birankai Polska za wspólny trening, którym pożegnaliśmy się z miejscem, które było naszym dojo od 2021 roku.
Domo arigatou gozaimasu! 🙏🥋

Rusza coroczna składka na utrzymanie dojo w czasie wakacji!
Jesteśmy wdzięczni za jakąkolwiek pomoc. Wielka praca nad sobą trwa tu nieprzerwanie od 16 lat. I może trwać dalej!
dziękujemy
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The annual dojo maintenance contribution during the holidays is starting!
We are grateful for any help. The great work on ourselves has been ongoing here for 16 years. And it can continue!
Thank you
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Yesterday we had last training with Rafaela Kavasi. She started her journey on Aikido path in the dojo Na Grobli Aikikai from the very beggining. Now she is leaving, going back to Greece, with hakama in her suitcase. I am proud, sad and grateful. Proud for her growth, sad for her leaving the dojo, grateful for being her teacher. Keep the fire burning dear Rafaela! You will always be here at home!