Summer 2025 Newsletter: Aikido Class Sleepover

by Chris Harano Sensei

On July 11th, the aikido class at Chozen-ji had its first ever dojo sleepover.  We participated in the evening zazen and kendo class before spending the night in the new housing across the street.  The next day we awoke early for zazen and aikido, and culminated the stay by exploring the stream.

It was wonderful to see the kendo and aikido classes come together. Our students, who are mostly children, got to feel the intensity of kendo for the first time.  Sitting zazen at dusk was another profound experience as we were able to see and feel the dojo’s kiai change as the sun set.

I am very grateful to everyone who made this sleepover happen and can’t wait for the next one!  It was a great reminder of the sangha, or community, of Chozen-ji and its unwavering support for all its members. No matter what art you train in, we are all training together.