On this episode of Ki to the City, I was blessed to have an absolutely extraordinary conversation with Dennis Kyriakos.
I first met Dennis back in 2002, at the very beginning of my Aikido journey, and it’s due to a wondrous synchronicity that our paths have reconnected recently. But, I don’t want to give away too many spoilers, so please, listen to the episode for more details of that striking coincidence.
A long-time Aikidoka, Dennis also conjures up wonder as a professional magician and our talk unearths some fascinating parallels between the two arts.
Following urging by Nadeau Sensei that “It’s not about ‘doing tricks’ but about being the magician,” Dennis brings a unique perspective to the practice, embodying the essence of what it means to be a magician.
As Dennis notes, any art, when truly followed, can open up one's awareness and allow for apparent miracles to occur. This heightened awareness facilitates a fundamental shift in mindset, moving from external technique to an internal state of being that allows for profound manifestations. This approach positions the practitioner as a "shapeshifter" or one with "secret knowledge" – archetypal qualities of the magician.
This phenomenon isn't about brute force or mechanical precision; it's about cultivating effortless, beautiful, and even "glorious" movements. Much like the art of magic, where the technique remains invisible for the audience to experience true astonishment, high-level Aikido transcends visible mechanics, tapping into an unseen dimension of energy. This concept of an "invisible” element is crucial.
The insights shared by Dennis challenge conventional understanding of martial arts. It’s about cultivating an inner sensibility that allows us to transcend the instinctual attack response and interpret challenges as “pressure” — as opportunities for growth and connection.
If you've ever wondered about the unseen forces at play in your Aikido practice, this episode is for you. Dennis Kyriakos illuminates the magical essence of Aikido, revealing that true power lies not just in what you do, but in who you become.
Tune in and discover how Aikido can truly be a path where apparent miracles are not just observed, but embodied.
And check out these links for more info about Dennis’ goings on…
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