30/07/2026
"This year marks a personal milestone: 19 years of Aikido.
What started as an unexpected step onto the tatami has become one of the constants in my life. Not because nothing changes—quite the opposite. If there is one thing life has taught me, it is that everything is constantly changing. Yet through all those changes, Aikido has been there.
For me, Aikido has never been about reaching a destination. It has always been about the journey.
A journey of continuous growth. Of facing challenges and finding solutions. Of learning more about myself, accepting my limitations and discovering how they can become strengths.
Aikido is a way to relax, to re-centre, to focus, to let go and to re-energise.
It is also a way to learn how to deal with different personalities, different perspectives and, at times, challenging situations. A place where I have encountered obstacles and opportunities alike, but also friendship, connection and mutual support. Through Aikido, I have met people from different backgrounds and learned to see the world through different eyes.
On the tatami, every training session is an invitation to stay present. To listen. To adapt. To keep learning.
Over the years, Aikido has given me far more than techniques. It has given me lifelong connections, valuable lessons and countless opportunities for self-reflection.
For me, Aikido is about growth. About being true to myself. About sometimes coming face to face with myself—and learning from it.
After 19 years, I realise that Aikido is not so much about where you are going, but about who you become along the way.
And after 19 years, the journey continues." Raffaella
If you are curious about Aikido and would like to experience the journey for yourself, join us at Aikido School Leiden. Training resumes after the summer break, on Thursday 3rd September: we welcome new and experienced practitioners every Thursday on the tatami.
Different backgrounds. One tatami. One Aikido.
Photos credit: JK Fotograaf
