Master the Way of the Sword

Develop Laser-Like Focus and Unshakable Confidence in Just Four Weeks

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Transform Your Daily Life

The principles learned through bokken practice extend far beyond the dojo, creating positive changes in how you approach everyday challenges.

Enhanced Focus

The concentration required for precise sword movements translates into improved focus at work, in conversations, and during daily tasks.

Better Posture & Presence

Develop natural, upright posture and a calm, centered presence that others notice in meetings, social situations, and daily interactions.

Improved Timing

Learn to sense the right moment for action, whether in business decisions, conversations, or navigating traffic—developing an intuitive sense of timing.

Stress Resilience

The mindful, meditative aspects of bokken practice help you remain calm and centered during stressful situations, responding rather than reacting.

Spatial Awareness

Develop better awareness of your surroundings and personal space, improving your confidence in crowded places and social situations.

Confident Interactions

The self-assurance gained through martial practice naturally enhances your ability to communicate clearly and stand your ground respectfully.

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Who Is This For?

This course is designed for people seeking meaningful growth through traditional martial practice. You'll find this program especially valuable if you are:

The Stressed Professional

This course is for you if... you're looking for a unique way to decompress from work stress while developing practical skills. The meditative aspects of sword practice provide a complete mental break from daily pressures, while the physical movements help release tension and improve posture from long hours at a desk.

The Dedicated Martial Artist

This course is for you if... you want to deepen your understanding of martial principles through traditional weapons training. Whether you practice Ki-Aikido, karate, or other arts, bokken training will enhance your timing, distance, and body mechanics while connecting you to the historical roots of Japanese martial arts.

The Focus Seeker

This course is for you if... you struggle with concentration and want to develop laser-like focus through disciplined practice. The precision required in sword movements naturally trains your mind to be present and attentive, skills that transfer directly to work, relationships, and personal goals.

The Personal Growth Explorer

This course is for you if... you're drawn to practices that develop both physical and mental discipline. Bokken training offers a unique path to self-improvement that combines mindfulness, physical coordination, and traditional wisdom in a supportive learning environment.

The Community Connector

This course is for you if... you want to be part of a respectful, focused community while learning something completely new. You'll train alongside like-minded individuals who value personal growth, mutual respect, and the journey of continuous learning.

The Confidence Builder

This course is for you if... you want to develop quiet confidence and inner strength. The progressive mastery of sword techniques builds genuine self-assurance that comes from disciplined practice and personal achievement, not from aggression or competition.

Meet Your Instructor

Matt Doetsch-Kidder Sensei

Matt Doetsch-Kidder Sensei

Head Instructor & Bokken Specialist

4th Dan (Yondan) Black Belt • Joden (Upper Level Bodymind Oneness "Black Belt")• Certified Ki Lecturer

With over 25 years of dedicated Ki-Aikido practice, Matt Doetsch-Kidder Sensei brings a wealth of experience and passion to bokken instruction. His journey began in 1999 at the Virginia Ki Society, and has included many intensive training retreats in Japan at the headquarters dojo.

Sensei's expertise in bokken comes from years of studying the deep connections between sword work and empty-hand Ki-Aikido techniques. He has competed internationally, earning gold and bronze medals in the 2004 International Taigi Competition alongside his partner.

Discover the Ancient Art of Japanese Swordsmanship

The bokken (wooden sword) is more than just a training tool—it's a gateway to understanding the principles of timing, distance, and Bodymind Oneness that lie at the heart of Ki-Aikido practice.

Join us for this exclusive four-week course where you'll learn traditional bokken techniques that enhance your understanding of Ki principles and deepen your Ki-Aikido practice.

What You'll Experience

Proper Form

Learn correct posture, grip, and movement patterns that form the foundation of effective bokken practice.

Traditional Kata

Learn basic kata and exercises that develop coordination, focus, and an understanding of martial principles.

Bodymind Oneness

Experience how bokken practice enhances your awareness, timing, and ability to extend Ki in all directions.

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A Structured Path to Sword Mastery

Our four-week program offers a systematic approach to developing your understanding of the sword through time-tested practices that enhance both your Ki-Aikido and daily life.

Each session builds upon the previous one, allowing you to progressively develop your skills from basic movements to more complex patterns and applications.

You'll receive personalized guidance from an experienced instructor who will help you refine your technique and understand the deeper principles behind each movement.

By the end of the four weeks, you'll have established a solid foundation in bokken practice that will continue to inform and enhance your Ki-Aikido training and daily life for years to come.

Bokken Training Practice

Course Structure

  • Week 1: Fundamentals Bodymind Oneness
  • Week 2: Fundamentals Bokken with Bodymind Oneness
  • Week 3: Introduction to Happo-giri (8 direction cuts)
  • Week 4: Refinement of Happo-giri

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need prior Ki-Aikido experience?

While some Ki-Aikido experience is helpful, this course is designed to be accessible to beginners with at least 3 months of training. The principles taught will benefit practitioners of all levels.

Do I need to bring my own bokken?

The dojo has practice bokken available for use during the course. If you have your own, you're welcome to bring it. We'll also provide information on purchasing a quality bokken if you wish to continue practice at home.

What should I wear to the sessions?

Please wear your regular keiko-gi. If you're new to Ki-Aikido, comfortable exercise clothing is acceptable.

How physically demanding is the course?

The course is moderately physical. We focus on proper form rather than strength or endurance. Each session includes appropriate warm-ups to prevent strain.

Begin Your Journey in the Way of the Sword

⚠️ Only 7 spots available to ensure personalized instruction from Doetsch-Kidder Sensei.

🎯 Early Bird Special - Save $20!

Register by August 31st, 2025 and pay only $80 instead of $100

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until early bird pricing expires

Course Details

Dates: Starting September 8, 2025

Time: Mondays, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Location: Loudoun Valley Ki-Aikido Dojo, Hillsboro Old Stone School

Regular Price: $100 | Early Bird: $80

Register on Eventbrite
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