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Uniting Through Tradition 

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Director, Dojo-cho

Keizan Murray

Portrait of Keizan Murray Sensei, Director of Mushinkan Kokyo. A dedicated Aikido instructor embodying wisdom and leadership in traditional Japanese martial arts.

Chief Instructor, Iaido

Brian Pettett

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Chief Greeter

Bella

Portrait of Bella, Keizan Sensei's dog, and Chief Greeter of Mushinkan Kokyo. A friendly presence welcoming all to our martial arts community in Chicago's North Center.

Our Community

In the heart of our dojo's history lies a mind that effortlessly radiates calmness, unswayed by external events or others' emotions. The objective is to heighten awareness (zanshin) and sensitivity while quieting the noise of thought and emotion, allowing for intuitive and spontaneous action. It is the art of letting the body, not the mind, take charge—liberating the mind from inhibition, distraction, and clutter.

 

With an unwavering dedication to the teachings of esteemed Aikido, Iaido, and Zen masters, Mushinkan Kokyo's lineage traces back to those who have devoted their lives to the art. As a proud member dojo of Aikido Shimbokukai, our instructors carry the torch of wisdom, techniques, and philosophies passed down through generations, having trained under renowned senseis and shihans. This legacy is a testament to the spiritual and martial journey that is Mushinkan Kokyo.

 

At Mushinkan Kokyo, our training philosophy transcends mere physical techniques. We place paramount importance on cultivating a peaceful and centered mind, body, and spirit. It involves effort, endurance, patience, concentration, and self-control, weaving a tapestry of skills that contribute to our character and humanity. As we dedicate ourselves to rigorous technical development, we cultivate confidence, composure, courage, indomitable spirit, humility, and compassion. Budo is a never-ending journey aimed at refining one's character and nurturing a strong sense of self and responsibility.

 

Through this rigorous path, we attain not only the moral values of a true human being but also self-awareness, a sense of purpose, and a spirit of self-sacrifice. These are the qualities that leaders and bushi once cultivated. The harmony and mental readiness to fulfill our responsibilities, a natural outcome of our strict training, is what we believe Bushido represents.

 

Stepping into the history of Mushinkan Kokyo, you embrace a legacy that upholds authenticity and comprehensive instruction in the Arts. Join us in nurturing a tranquil mind and honing the body's capabilities as we continue our journey towards excellence in martial and spiritual growth.

 

Questions? Contact us and schedule your visit today!

Unveiling the Roots of Mushinkan Kokyo:
Embracing the Calm Mind

Our Story

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