Aikido - The Martial Art of Peace

Growth Guide

Sharon has found herself training under some remarkable masters throughout her life. From direct students of Ōsensei: Nakazono Sensei, Sugano Sensei, and Yamata Sensei to name a few. Sharon teaches Aikido at NY Aikikai under Yamata Sensei. Yamata Sensei studied as a live in student directly under the founder of Aikido, Morihei Ueshiba - Ōsensei. It doens’t get richer than that. Aikido is a defensive martial art that teaches us how to diffuse a situation with minimal harm caused. Ōsensei is quoted saying, To injure an opponent is to injure yourself. To control aggression without inflicting injury is the Art of Peace. This sentiment accurately sums up how Aikido is a meditation or even therapy for all areas of life. I’ve had the privilege of practicing with Sharon and can only say that she is fierce, deeply connected to greater spirit, and an absolute blast to be around. Sharon is the US Rep for the International Aikido Federation’s Working Group on Gender. Sharon is also a healer practicing many modalities including Kototama. Don’t worry if you haven’t heard of it, I hadn’t either but have fallen in love with the practice. Kototama uses ancient sacred sounds to affect dis-ease in the body, mind, and spirit. This Japanese practice believes that mystical powers dwell in words and names.