SANGEN
“Aikido is based on physics, mathematics and anatomy”
Michael Moreno Shihan, 7 Dan.
SANGEN (三元) - three origins or principles.
The symbol of SANGEN Melbourne Aikikai is very simple.
It is comprised of the number 3 in Japanese (三) surrounded by a circle, representing a single source, with the characters of Aikido on the top right side.
It stands for the triple nature of the concepts and ideals that we pursue in our training.
We train in a spirit of commitment, fellowship and respect.
We believe that our practice must be functional - in movement, foundational - in health, and formative - in character.
We strive to align our body, breath, and intention to make our movement efficient and clear.
We aim to lead our partner, while controlling their movement in order to apply our technique in the most effective way.
We seek to understand, the physical, anatomical and mathematical principles behind our practice.
In the true spirit of Budo, we aim to develop as individuals as well as part of a community in order to serve society at large.
Our Instructors
Rodrigo Castellanos, 6th Dan Aikikai
Rodrigo started his Aikido journey in Mexico City in the late 90’s as a direct student of Michael Moreno Shihan (7th Dan). For over 25 years, Rodrigo has been training & teaching Aikido to adults, teenagers and children in Victoria, as well as sharing life skills programs in schools and community agencies to improve resilience, emotional regulation and respectful relationships amongst young people.
Rodrigo has trained Aikido in Mexico, Japan, Australia and the United States, and participated in the All Japan Aikido Demonstrations of 2017 and 2024.
Rodrigo received his 6th Dan, recognised by Aikido Hombu Dojo (Tokyo) during the Kagamibiraki ceremony of 2023.
Irena Krol, 4th Dan Aikikai
Irena started training Aikido in 2002 in Queensland, Australia. For several years she has been teaching beginners’ classes helping students to establish strong foundations in terms of body awareness and technical development.
Irena is a certified shiatsu practitioner with extensive experience in teaching people about self-care and wellbeing practices. She is also a certified life skills instructor helping to empower young people to better manage challenges in their lives. Irena participated in the All Japan Aikido Demonstration of 2024.
In 2024, Irena also received her 4th Dan, recognised by Aikido Hombu Dojo, directly from Michael Moreno Shihan.
All gradings (from 5th Kyu to Dan) at SANGEN Melbourne Aikikai, are internationally recognised and issued directly by Hombu Dojo in Tokyo, under the direction of Michael Moreno Shihan, 7th dan.