by Daria Litunenko
I think many have already heard that another new naginata community has appeared, this time in Kazakhstan. I had a long weekend in May and decided to make the most of it. And it so happened that Adil and Alexey offered to organize a small seminar with them.
So, I flew from snowy Moscow to sunny Astana (in fact, I also had to travel by train from St. Petersburg through snow and blizzard).
Astana pleased us with good weather and hospitality. I had time to see the sights and practice naginata, of course. I already know someone from the naginata group in Kazakhstan quite well, and I saw someone for the first time.
Moreover, the guys regularly record videos for me. Thanks to modern technology! Despite the fact that some were more advanced, some less, I decided that the main focus of the seminar would be basic kihon – footwork, body work, correct strikes and breathing. All seminar participants were so diligent. Of course, it is impossible to correct all the mistakes the first time, but I believe that step by step they will improve their naginata. We also found time for fun moments. For example, they cut a newspaper with a naginata. This exercise is not only fun, but also helps you understand what proper te-no-uchi is. Really useful.
At the end of the seminar, we graduated Adil and Alexey for the Ikkyu. Katie Roche sensei (5Dan, USA) and Gur Nezdvetsky sensei (4Dan, Israel) were other shinsa-in. I am so grateful to them for their help. The guys passed their exam successfully. Congratulations! Although, it seemed to me that I was somewhat strict in my assessments.
I am sure that this seminar in Astana will be a good impetus for the further development of naginata in Kazakhstan. I wish this young group success and they can always count on our help.
