“We discovered the dojo by happy accident in the fall of 2015, and it has become one of the reasons we have stayed in Sandpoint. The positive energy and love that emanate from Sensei Reitan and Gaia his wife, is infectious.
The dojo community that they have built has become like family, and we cherish the opportunities to thrive together. When I saw the growth in my children (ages 7, 10, 16) after only a few months in the dojo, I wanted to become an aikidoka (student of aikido). My husband also joined the dojo, and our family is growing together as we play and practice on the mat.
All the dojo students, young and old, have varying levels of ability and awareness, and we are all being challenged together…we learn from each other in a welcoming, safe, respectful environment. And we are blessed by the wisdom and expertise of Sensei Reitan, who exhibits a gentleness, grace and a calm that belies his incredible strength, speed and martial mastery. His teachings are both simple and complex on physical, emotional and spiritual levels.
The art and practice of aikido is a multi-layered experience that speaks to every aspect of our lives…it is exquisitely graceful and exceptionally practical, it touches heart, body and mind. Learning the ancient art, craft and heart of the samurai is incredibly meaningful, and practicing on the mat at the dojo is also great fun!”