07/26/2024
Whether we realize it or not, some of us may actually be standing in the midst of an icon.
A pioneer who is remarkable, exceptional, and outstanding in presence.
When we come to realize her history, our regard immensely deepens.
And so today we respectfully call attention to the qualities of Mary Heiny Sensei.
She is naturally welcoming, warm and unassuming. I first met her, a decade+ ago, at a seminar she taught. I had assumed a place in the very back of the dojo since this seminar was not “my style”. While privately working on conquering that “being out of my comfort zone” anxiety, she kindly connected to me (not vice versa).
I was surprised - she was the esteemed guest teacher, and I was a nobody.
Such was my introduction to the Mary Heiny Sensei. An aikido pioneer, who bravely paved the way - for all aikidoist (most especially for women).
Mary Heiny Sensei first viewed aikido in 1965, a time when very few women engaged in this male dominated realm. She witnessed O'Sensei teaching at Hombu Dojo in Tokyo, Japan and was inspired,
"As I watched, a part of me could not believe what I was seeing and sought a rational explanation while another part of me understood immediately that this man had attained a profound understanding of nature and possessed amazing power."
From 1968 to 1973 she trained with O'Sensei's direct students including Hikitsuchi Sensei, 10th dan, in Shingu.
In the US, she taught at the University of California in Santa Cruz, later opening dojos in Seattle first and Canada.
“I worked to develop an atmosphere in which students would, with me, approach Aikido as a living process to be engaged in rather than merely a series of rigidly unvarying forms to memorize. I emphasized that the techniques of Aikido are intended as tools for us to use in examining the nature of power, to engage in uncompromising self-scrutiny, and to realize our potential as powerful, compassionate, creative, self-aware human beings. I also emphasized that good technique is necessary to accomplish this. Diligent physical training must be combined with a thoughtful examination so that lessons of one's life inform one's training."
She has directed many seminars in the U.S., Europe, and Canada.
Her teachings spans nearly 60 years aikido experience with extensive knowledge in Japanese culture, language, Shinto and Buddhist philosophies, and Non-Violent Communication.
She inspires all students to reach inward, to find depth and courage in ourselves.
She promotes celebration in the knowledge that we are all one family, together here to guide, nurture and uplift ourselves, each other, and the whole of humanity.
She is a beautiful example of an empowered, creative, and compassionate human being, providing a profound example for each of us to follow.
Thankyou Mary Heiny Sensei for the pioneer that you are, for the road that you paved, for the example that you provide, and for the inspiration each of us gather from you every single time you teach.
G.Breeland, 6th dan
