Kagami Biraki - Renewing the Spirit Training 2023

Shinnen omedetô (gozaimasu) (新年おめでとう (ございます) ); Happy New Year.

Shobukai Aikido Daleside Dojo Nottingham is holding it annual Kagami Biraki - Renewing the Spirit Training session. 

What is Kagami biraki and why are we following this tradition. 

Kagami biraki (鏡開き, lit. 'opening the mirror'; understood as "breaking of the mochi" or "Rice Cutting Ceremony") is a traditional Japanese ceremony where kagami mochi are broken open. It traditionally falls on January 11 (odd numbers are associated with being good luck in Japan).

Kagami Biraki, is a traditional Japanese celebration that is held in many traditional martial arts schools (dojos) usually on the second Saturday or Sunday of January so all students will be able to attend. (1) It was an old samurai tradition dating back to the 15th century that was adopted into modern martial arts starting in 1884 when Jigora Kano (the founder of judo) instituted the custom at the Kodokan, his organization's headquarters. (2)

Since then other Japanese arts, such as aikido, karate, and jujutsu, have adopted the celebration that officially kicks off the new year -- a tradition of renewal, rededication and spirit. 

All member welcome, bring a friend so they can experience what we do. We will also toast in the new year with some sake, soft drinks, etc.

Hope to see you all on Saturday 14th January 2023 starts at 9:30.