Photo: Supplied.
A new year means new beginnings for local martial artists.
The New Year is traditionally a special time for martial arts enthusiasts. It’s an occasion to take a break, reflect on the past year and set goals for the future. Traditionally this includes rituals such as O Soji where members thoroughly clean the dojo on New Year’s, and a ceremony known as Kagami Biraki to mark the first training in the New Year.
This year will mark not only the Year of the Tiger, but also 15 years since local martial arts group, Bayside Budokai started classes in Wynnum.
Bayside Budokai offers training in three disciplines: aikido, iaido (swordsmanship) and jodo (staff) for adults and juniors from primary school age.
According to instructor David Kolb, lockdowns and restrictions over the past two years have been challenging, but he is looking forward to the new year and the opportunity to renew connections interstate and with friends and teachers overseas.
“For anyone considering taking up martial arts or renewing their training, the new year presents a great opportunity to get involved,” said David.
“To commemorate our 15th anniversary Bayside Budokai is offering a six-week Budo Challenge, which allows new members commencing in January to practice obligation-free for a period of six weeks. This opportunity is suitable for anyone keen to acquire new physical skills, build self-confidence, make new friends and learn something about Japanese culture along the way.”
For details contact David Kolb on 0409 250 065 or email [email protected] or visit the website at http://baysidebudokai.net, or find out more on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/BaysideBudokai
