Iaido literally means “the way of mental presence and immediate response.” It is a form-based martial art practicing the techniques of drawing, cutting and re-sheathing the katana, the curved Japanese long sword. Although incorporating a number of different actions, Iaido forms (kata) emphasize the motion and direction of the initial draw simultaneously being the first cut to the opponent as the sword is unsheathed. The forms are based on different scenarios of combat against single or multiple opponents. While the martial application of this skill is not a part of modern society, the mental and physical qualities it cultivates are powerfully relevant to everyday life.  The practice of this art, as in all martial arts, unifies mind, body and spirit to give the fullest expression of the embodied human being.

Finding the powerful connections within your own body and mind with focus, stability and control changes how you use your body in everyday life to preserve vitality and develop a centered resilience.

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Instructor

Ronna Erickson is Sandan (3rd degree black belt) in Muso Shinden Ryu as taught by Mitsuzuka Takeshi Sensei. She began her study of Iaido in 1996 under the instruction of the late Paul Sylvain Sensei, and after his death, with instruction from the late Marion Taylor Sensei, godan (5th degree black belt). She was fortunate to have experienced direct instruction from Takeshi Sensei on occasions when he visited the US for Iaido Summer Camp.

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Having practiced several martial arts diligently throughout her adult life, her joy now is to transmit the information she gained from her teachers along with her experience and discoveries as a long-time practitioner.

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Contact

If you are interested in Iaido practice, please contact Ronna at RBErickson44@gmail.com