My name is Jaime Calderon. I have been training in aikido since 1993. I have taught aikido classes at CSU, Chico and Butte Community College. I am the chief instructor at Ten Shin Aikido Dojo located In Chico Ca.

I tested for my Shodan (blackbelt) From Steven Seagal Sensei in spring of 2000 in which I passed on my first time through.

I have been training in the physical form of aikido for the past twelve years, although, I feel as if I have been training for the last 27 years. By this, I mean, I have been studying the philosophy of aiki. Though, I was not aware of it at the time, through sports at a young age I was already influenced by the path of aikido.

Throughout my life I have always searched for a path that was filled with compassion and knowledge. I felt there was something else that was out there and because of this I felt my self searching for this void. Through it all, I feel has come to this point in my life, that the void is now being filled. This is not to say that this has been something easy to achieve, but rather something that has taught me a great deal about learning and patience. I have always viewed all the wonderful experiences in my life as great vehicles to the path of attaining an enlightenment of a greater self. This to me is nothing more than a path, a path that I hope to have the courage and understanding to continue on.

As I now find my self exploring these teachings in many aspects of life, I have used Aikido as a means of interpretation through movement in hopes for one day to finding the answers to the questions that surround me. For now Aikido has become the vehicle I need and I only hope and strive to be a great student and teacher.

I feel I have been very blessed with the teachers and friends that have come into my life. I have often said to many of my friends and students, “All of you are my greatest teachers.” I do not believe I am a great teacher or even a good student. What I do believe is that we all have the capability of becoming one.

I am very fortunate to have trained with many accomplished Aikidokas. I feel even more blessed to have Steven Seagal Sensei as my teacher and friend. Through his teachings I only hope to bring inspiration, compassion and oneness to all who wish to train with me. I am truly inspired and I hope you will be too! 

Read an Interview with Calderon Sensei