Internal Martial Arts

Aikido is a Japanese martial art famed for its peaceful philosophy, an appropriate art for our times. Tai Chi is a slower-paced, deeply internal study that reinforces students’ understanding of the foundation principles of martial arts and self-healing, and is a wonderful meditative study for adults of all ages. Both of these are considered internal martial arts because they develop the internal power of the student.

Open Sky focuses on developing the use of ki or chi (i.e., life force) rather than muscular strength to promote inner awareness and self-defense. Our chief instructor, Steven Kaufmann, creates a relaxed group setting. He embodies these arts through his clarity of movement . He is able to break down movement through actions and words. His simplicity, clarity, and centeredness bring a sense of safety and joy to the learning process.

Steve Kaufmann taught violence prevention to Durham 6th grade students and teachers through a program sponsored by Duke University and at Central Park School for Children in Durham. Open Sky’s children’s classes emphasize safety and violence prevention. Our entire school emphasizes alignment of the body,mind, and spirit and creating a cooperative community experience.

Open Sky’s Aikido Credentials

Open Sky Aikido is a fully accredited member of the United States Aikido Federation (USAF). Kaufmann Sensei is a 6th degree black belt and a licensed Aikido teacher (Shidoin) in the USAF, allowing him to test and give rank in Aikido. The USAF is affiliated with Hombu Aikido Dojo, the world headquarters of Aikido in Tokyo, Japan.

Open Sky’s Tai Chi Credentials

Jason Widener and Steven Kaufmann teach Chen Tai Chi and are senior students of Chen-lineage master teacher Wang Hai Jun, based in Manchester, England.Our teachers have been acknowledged and approved by Wang Hai Jun to teach Chen Tai Chi under his supervision at Open Sky. We are one of just three schools in the United States who hold seminars with Master Wang each year.