top of page

HEAVEN & EARTH AIKIDO

We offer a variety of convenient training days and times.

MONDAY

 

 

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

SATURDAY

6:00 - 7:00​ PM

7:15 - 8:15 PM

6:00 - 7:00​ PM

6:00 - 7:00​ PM

7:15 - 8:15 PM​

10:15 - 11:15 AM

11:30 - 12:30 PM

These classes provide aikido instruction as taught by Yoshimitsu Yamada and Seichi Sugano. Our program offers traditional and modern-day applications of aikido for self-defense, personal development, community service, and spiritual exploration. No matter your age, ability, or experience, our program offers an exciting and challenging curriculum suited to anyone who wishes to learn.

 

Our teaching philosophy allows for all of our students to train together regardless of rank or experience. A beginner will train with everyone in the same class, but from the first day they will receive one-to-one personal instruction as needed.

 

'Aikido is a spiritual path. Aikido is however a martial art and students must be able to protect themselves and as importantly, those they love and have responsibility for. I have used the art easily and effectively to protect myself in dangerous situtions and I expect the same of Heaven and Earth students." Sensei Brian Ericksen 

IMG_4248.JPG
Sugano Sensei.jpg

Brian Ericksen - Shidoin, 5th Dan

Dojo-cho Heaven & Earth Aikido

Ericksen Sensei has over 25 years of experience in Aikido. For almost 3 years he was uchi deshi (inner student) to Yoshimitsu Yamada Sensei (2/17/1938-1/15/2023) 8th Dan, Chairman of the USAF. Sensei Seiichi Sugano (12/17/1939-8/29/2010) 8th Dan, was a close mentor and guide from his time as uchi deshi till his death.

Sensei Ericksen was the first person to teach Aikido in Iraq. He taught Afghans, Army, and Marines in Afghanistan and was a civilian first responder on 9-11, working with the New York City Provisional Joint Task Force at Ground Zero. 

Sensei Bowcutt.jpg

Instructor 

Tony Breda - 2nd Dan, Nidan

 

Sensei Breda began his Aikido training in 1983 at the Shobukan under Mitsugi Saotome Shihan, training off and on in Baltimore and Washington, then under the Kokukai in Mt Airy md for  several years. After a long hiatus, he found Brian Ericksen Sensei in Herndon Virginia when the dojo opened in 2013 and has been training there ever since. 

Instructor 

Tammy Bowcutt - Nidan (2nd degree black belt), Fukushidoin 

 

Tammy earned her Nidan in 2022 and was named fukushidoin (assistant instructor license) in 2021. She has been training since 2014, and using Aikido movements in her executive coaching practice since 2010. Tammy is certified in the Strozzi Institute somatic coaching method. 

Sensei%20Wilson_edited.jpg

Instructor 

Peter Wilson - Nidan (2nd degree black belt), Fukushidoin

 

Peter joined Heaven and Earth Aikido in 2017 months after his daughter and son started practice. He earned his first degree black belt in 2020 under the instruction of Sensei Brian Ericksen and has assisted with instruction for both kids and adults since 2019. Peter also holds dan grades in jujitsu and trained in judo and kickboxing for many years.  

Oly 1.jpg

Instructor 

Oly Medlicott - Sandan (3rd degree black belt)

 

Oly started aikido in 2003, holds 3rd Dan, and has been practicing all around the world, often in Japan. She loves aikido connection through practice in the dojo, as well as the mental and spiritual growth. 

 

Oly enjoys teaching kids, teens, and adults, making aikido possible for everyone to learn and achieve their best. Now practicing and teaching at Heaven & Earth dojo with her husband James and six year old son Alex.

Tony.jpg

Tony Breda (1965-2021), Sandan

Emeritus Dojo-cho

Fukushidoin

Heaven & Earth Aikido

 

Sensei Breda began his Aikido training in 1983 at the Shobukan under Mitsugi Saotome Shihan, training off and on in Baltimore and Washington, then under the Kokukai in Mt Airy MD for several years. After a long hiatus, he found Brian Ericksen Sensei in Herndon Virginia when the dojo opened in 2013. His spirit continues to guide and inspire our dojo.

bottom of page