Peace Talks
Since 2000 Two Rivers Aikido has been on the evolutionary edge offering Aiki informed, practice-based programs to support individuals, teams, and organizations. We explore the evolutionary nature of the embodied wisdom practice of Aikido through the rigorous study of form, shape, and movement.
We are rooted in relationality. We view the primary domain of progress as seen through how we live our lives both on and off the mat with a depth of embodied awareness and relational maturity.
Sincere and dedicated practice carries within it the capacity to enliven us to the understanding that: We are the Art. Our humanity is the art that we develop; basic goodness, somatic sensibility, and personal accountability.
The following is a partial listing of programs and workshops provided throughout the years.
The Embodiment of Peace Matrix©
Developed in 2000 for clinical application with at-risk / at-promise youth and families associated with Department of Corrections and Department of Family Services; The Embodiment of Peace Matrix© is a model, template, or primer of psycho/social/spiritual development practiced from a somatic transpersonal perspective. From its roots in Somatic and transpersonal psychology and the embodied wisdom practice of Aikido it is a unique approach to the navigation and reconciliation of conflict and a guide toward healing relationships damaged through trauma and addiction.
The training curriculum combines somatics, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral modalities integrated with action oriented and contemplative practices.
This program is offered by request.
Integrative Family Program©
The Integrative Family Program© is a full bodied Aiki informed, principle-based, clinical program dedicated to fostering wellness, wholeness, and belonging in marginalized youth and families. The Embodiment of Peace Matrix©, a matrix of peacemaking and reconciliation based in the embodied wisdom practice of Aikido, forms the platform of the program and bringing families and youth together on the mat weekly.
For well over a decade families and youth participated in this intensive six month program structured within the ethos of a particular necessity: Making available clinically sound integrative therapeutic modalities for those living on the edges inside of our local community. Funded in part by both the judicial system of Flathead Valley and DPHHS, this program is unique and one of a kind in the nation.
After 16 years of implementation, Mark and Leigh are currently not offering direct services to this program. They now provide training and consultation to local, national, and international organizations as well as provide training and certification in The Embodiment of Peace Matrix©.
Journey Toward Center
A full-bodied six-month program for those interested in the study and exploration of the ancient and contemporary roadmaps of human and ecological wholeness and healing. Grounded in the Incarnational Mystical tradition together with the martial heart practice and principles of Aikido, we dive into contemplative and movement practices in service of expanding our inner reservoir of resilience and widen our capacity to respond to life with presence, compassion, and practical wisdom.
This program is not currently offered.
Building Bodies of Peace
A practice-based retreat grounded in a study of the somatics of wellbeing and focused on cultivating skills for a centered life in community. Both individually and collectively we explore the multi-faced narrative of trauma, as it inhabits us, our relationships, and our community.
This program meets criteria for continuing education units for licensed providers in the field of mental health and addictions.
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A deep bow of appreciation to the hundreds of people we have been privileged to serve through our Aiki informed and practice-based programs and workshops. Thank you to: Department of Public Health and Human Services, Child Protective Services, Flathead County Youth Court Services, Center for Restorative Youth Justice, Flathead Youth Home, Reclaiming Youth International, NADACC, Linderman Education Center, Dickerson Counseling, and all the individuals who have dedicated themselves to the Art of creating a beautiful life for the sake of self, others, and the planet.