Winter (Kan) Shugyo 2026

The oldest (and dustiest) Aikido elders speak of the old misogi, the traditional Shinto purification of standing under a waterfall in winter (not dissimilar from walking to school in the snow...uphill...both ways). The shock of the icy water served as a wake-up call to the spirit, provoking transcendence. Modern personal development rituals have evolved into physical and mental challenges, spiritual practices, and meditation, or what we dub shugyos.

The goal is to challenge oneself to do something that seems impossible, the shock of which cultivates courage, confidence, and an enduring optimism. Kan shugyo brings students at all levels together for an extended training session that helps to clear our minds and sharpen our focus on the meaning and goals of budo as we enter the new year.

DSBK's Kan Shugyo gathers students at all levels for an extended training session that helps to clear the mind and sharpen your focus. The full session…