Evolutionary Aikido Seminar
Surfing the wave of change
San Diego, February 12-15, 2027
Change is constant. It shows up in our bodies, our relationships, our work, and the world around us, often faster than we can plan for. We can brace against it, or we can learn to ride it. Aikido has always been a practice of meeting what comes with openness instead of resistance, and this seminar puts that at the center. Over four days, we’ll explore how to stay grounded, connected, and present when things don’t go as expected, both on the mat and off it.
A big part of that exploration is combat improv. If you are new to the Evolutionary Aikido community (EAC), combat improv is a continuing work in process practiced mainly in the circle of EAC dojos as a way to augment your ability to stay present in non-resistance. It’s fluid and principle based (not technical) so there are no patterns to rely on as there is in traditional aikido practice. Challenge yourself to remain connected in unknown circumstances and still maintain a developmental training relationship beyond the impulse to “win.”
Meet your Instructors
Patrick Cassidy Sensei, 7th Dan
Patrick has practiced the art of Aikido, Yoga and Meditation for over 40 years. He has travelled and lived in Japan, Tibet, Nepal and India for over 11 years. He has committed his life to studying these arts and providing the opportunity for others to learn.
Dave Goldberg Sensei, 6th Dan
Dave started Aikido over 40 years ago, and lived in Japan for 3½ years to train under some of O-Sensei’s most prolific disciples. His life’s work has been to frame Aikido as a fully embodied, evolutionary art form for revealing and empowering our authentic Self.
Tentative schedule
While we may have some changes, we are aiming to have a schedule like the following:
Friday:
5:30-8:30pm Welcome and aikido training
Saturday:
10am Contemplative meditation
10:30-1pm Aikido training
1-2:30pm Lunch
2:30-5pm Aikido training
5:30-6:30pm Tests
7pm Dinner at the dojo
Sunday:
10am-11:45am Weapons training
12:15-2pm Weapons freestyle
Monday:
10am-12pm Combat improv
12-1pm Light lunch
1-3pm Combat improv
Our venue: Aiki Home
The seminar will be held at our Aikido dojo in the College Area of San Diego. Conveniently located just steps from a bus stop and about a mile from the trolley station, the dojo is also surrounded by plenty of local spots to grab a meal or snack.
Our space is fully wheelchair accessible. In addition to the training area, we offer changing rooms, three bathrooms, a shower, and a comfortable viewing area for those who wish to sit and observe class.
For guests who prefer to stay on-site, the dojo is equipped with a kitchenette, small washer, and space to eat and sleep.
Support throughout the seminar
Aikido works on the whole person: body, mind, and emotions. Sometimes the practice brings up more than we expect. A technique, a moment of connection with a partner, or simply slowing down and paying attention can stir up feelings or memories. This is a normal part of deep practice, and it’s often part of what makes it meaningful. As always, Patrick Sensei and Dave Sensei are happy to talk with you about anything that comes up. This year, we’re also adding extra support: a member of our team will be available throughout the seminar as a dedicated support person, trained by a psychologist in trauma-informed care. If anything comes up for you during class and you’d like to talk, take a moment, or just have someone with you, support will be there. Aikido of San Diego strives to be an open, supportive, and inclusive space where everyone can train as they are. You’re always welcome to step off the mat, and you never need to explain why.
Pricing
Early bird registration (until November 30)
Whole seminar (Friday-Monday): $275 (use promo code EB30)
Friday-Sunday only: $245 (use promo code EB25)
Normal registration
Whole seminar (Friday-Monday): $305
Friday-Sunday only: $270
New this year: Semi-private lessons with Patrick Sensei and Dave Sensei
This year, Patrick Sensei and Dave Sensei are also offering semi-private lessons during their visit. Each session is 45 minutes long and takes up to four people, so it’s a chance to get focused, personal instruction in a small group. Two groups can train at the same time: each sensei teaches one group, and partway through the session they switch, so every group gets to work with both instructors. Each session costs $400, paid in a single payment for the whole group. How you split it is up to you. For example, a group of four sharing evenly would pay $100 each. These lessons are separate from the seminar and completely optional. If you’d like to book one, use the “Visiting aikidokas” section, select the session you’re interested in and book it.
Process to register
Use the buttons below if you want to sign up for the whole seminar or Friday-Sunday. If you would like to register for only one day of the seminar or for a private lesson, please use the tab “Visiting aikidokas“, look for the session you are looking for and book it. For the private lessons, once you have your group formed, and after you booked the session, please let Maru know at maru@aikidosd.com.
Of course, if you have any questions or difficulties, please don’t hesitate to reach out!
We look forward to training with you soon!
