Keiko Osame
“Keiko Osame” holds profound significance in Aikido and Japanese martial arts, marking the culmination of a year’s practice and training. In Japanese, “Keiko” signifies practice, while “Osame” means conclusion. Therefore, Keiko Osame represents the pivotal final training session of the year, offering a moment for both the dojo and its students to embrace the full scope of their training.
This event encourages reflection across several key areas:
- Reflection and Gratitude 🤔💭: This period allows practitioners to ponder our yearly progress, appreciating our teachers, peers, and Aikido itself. Such contemplation extends beyond mere physical skills, encompassing personal growth and the broader life lessons gleaned from Aikido and overall training in martial arts.
- Ritual and Tradition 🎎🥋: More than a standard training session, Keiko Osame can be steeped in ceremony, symbolizing the transition into the forthcoming year. Unique practices and techniques during this time are reminiscent of carefully folding a hakama post-practice, a gesture reflecting on the seven virtues – Jin (Benevolence), Gi (Justice), Rei (Etiquette), Chi (Wisdom), Shin (Trust), Chugi (Loyalty), and Koh (Filial Piety).
- Renewal and Resolution 🌱🎯: Mirroring global end-of-year customs, Keiko Osame is a time for forward-looking reflection. It’s an opportunity for Aikidoists to set new goals, reaffirm dedication to our practice, and mentally and physically gear up for upcoming challenges.
- Community and Fellowship 🤝🔗: This occasion also fosters camaraderie within the dojo and the broader martial arts community. It’s a chance to fortify bonds with fellow practitioners, jointly celebrate achievements, and partake in dojo and communal activities.
In essence, Keiko Osame transcends being merely the final practice of the year in Japanese martial arts. It embodies a rich tradition that interweaves reflection, ceremony, renewal, and community, echoing the deep ties between martial arts and Japanese cultural values.
Each dojo may have its unique approach to concluding the year’s practice, but the essence remains constant – an opportunity for all to align with Aikido’s principles as imparted by O-Sensei. These principles emphasize continuous improvement, introspection, and the pursuit of harmony both within oneself and with others.
