User:Sg647112c/Zenshinkan
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Zenshinkan Dojo is affiliated with the Aikido Association of America. It offers Budō and Zen training concurrently to create a program of shugyo: intense spiritual, physical and mental training. It is committed to passing on quality instruction in Aikido, Zen meditation and fine arts.
Zenshinkan is located at 65 Water Street in Worcester, Massachusetts.
[edit] Introduction
From ancient times, people sensed there was something beyond that which was commonly perceived. This sense may have led them to seek ways to help pierce through "their veil of delusion", to finally see things as they authentically were. Ascetic practices such as meditation, prayer, chanting, contemplation, martial arts, physical postures - in fact, all activities, performed under the guidance of a Teacher - support us, and pierce through the dualism of right and wrong, you and I, good and bad, and yin and yang to realize our true selves, the authentic nature of reality.
Training at Zenshinkan Dojo focuses on Budo and Zen. The Budo in which we train is Aikido, a Japanese martial art that teaches non-contention in dealing with aggression. Training in Zen, formal meditation, is offered concurrently to create a curriculum for discovering the true nature of the person on the path or following the Way. All activities in the dojo are supported and supervised under the guidance of an instructor. Training at Zenshinkan Dojo is not limited to Budo and Zen meditation. Samu (service) is a significant part of our training and allows us to give to something that is greater than ourselves. At Zenshinkan Dojo you will find all participants engage in cleaning the dojo, offering their talents and services to dojo to support the members of our community in their development. The supportive environment that is created allows persons of all skill levels, ages and physical capabilities to engage in training and benefit from the teachings of those who came before us.
The culture at Zenshinkan Dojo is one of sincere personal inquiry coupled with the joy of being a member of a supportive community. As students enter the dojo they are expected to be mindful of their words, actions, and how they operate in and around the dojo. Attention is given to the smallest concerns; many have to do with politeness, others with safety. This creates an environment where the student can begin to engage in meaningful development.
As a student of Zenshinkan Dojo you are a member of a larger community of Aikido and Zen practitioners from across the United States and internationally. Your participation in local, regional and national seminars allows you to discover your place in this greater community and to gain a vision of the significance of your training.
All persons who are interested in participating at Zenshinkan Dojo are welcome to come and watch a class or join us for Zen meditation. We look forward to scheduling your visit, please feel free to contact us at your convenience.
[edit] Programs
- Aikido 合気道
- Zen 禅
- Japanese Language 日本語 offered as four 12-week courses
- Ikebana 華道
- Iaidō 居合道
