DavidKaplandavidk David Kaplan’s study of eastern philosophy and mysticism (Buddhism and Taoism) led to his seeking a greater sense of wholeness between his mind and body. He began studying Tai Chi in 1975, and continued practicing with several teachers for about fifteen years. David started Aikido in 1977 at Washington Aiki Kai, founded by several former students of Harada Sensei (who was a member of Koichi Tohei’s Ki Aikido Organization). Traditional Aikido fundamentals with a strong emphasis on ki extension were taught by a variety of instructors. In 1990 David was unable to train in Aikido because of injury, and he studied with David Harris for two years. He started training regularly at Seattle School of Aikido in 1996. “The best way I can describe my perspective on Aikido is that it is a form of moving meditation. In meditation the mantra is a focus of attention that allows for unfocused movement of the mind. Aikido operates in a similar way by focusing attention on the physical and mental state of being in movement.” DavidK.jpgWednesday2010-09-08T19:15:00-04:002010-09-08T20:30:00-04:00GeneralAdultdavidk