Here’s a fun and interesting way to practice Aikido outside the dojo. Paying attention to what’s around you can help keep you safe, but it can also help you find your car. The next time you go to the store with your parents take notice of where they park the car. You can do this with or without your parents’ knowledge (if you do this without them knowing and they need help finding the car you’ll come across as if you possess superpowers:). Look for landmarks to help you remember where the car is. Remember not to choose other cars as a landmark because they may move and not be there when you return. Good landmarks would be trees, light poles, signs on poles, where you parked compared to the store’s entrance or anything else that doesn’t move. Then, when you come out of the store be the first one to find the car… or be there ready to come to the rescue if your mom or  dad need help finding the car. One more thing about parking lots. As you are walking in a parking lot watch the taillights of parked cars. If you see white lights that means the car is in reverse and may be moving backwards. Keep an eye on the driver and be prepared to stop as they may not see you.

This will sound silly, but have fun in the parking lots! Be aware of your surroundings and pay attention.

Teresa Mastison Sensei