Aikido is a Japanese martial art that blends with the energy of an attack to redirect the force rather than defeat it. It is a dynamic and flowing form of non-violent self-defence.
The principles, techniques and movements of Aikido involve remaining relaxed, focused and centered, harmonising with the energy of an attack, and leading it to a peaceful resolution. In remaining focused and in the present moment, Aikido becomes a form of moving meditation.
The term “Aikido” (pronounced ”eye” – “key” – “doe”) is written using three Japanese characters or kanji :
“ai” – harmony,
“ki” – spirit, mind, or universal energy, and
“do” – the Way.
Thus Aikido is “the Way of Harmony with Universal Energy”.
At the core of Aikido training, there are two fundamental threads: (i) a commitment to peaceful resolution of conflict whenever possible, and (ii) a commitment to self-improvement through Aikido training.
Aikido has no tournaments or competitions. Instead, all Aikido techniques are learned cooperatively at the level of each student’s ability.
Aikido is not about conquering an opponent, but more about conquering our own limitations, fears and weaknesses. According to the founder, the goal of Aikido is not the defeat of others, but the defeat of the negative characteristics which inhabit our own mind and inhibit its functioning. The principles of Aikido can be applied effectively as a martial art, and also in how we live our day-to-day lives.
John Stevens, in his popular book, The Art of Peace (2002) states “Morihei Ueshiba, the founder of Aikido taught the Art of Peace as a creative mind-body discipline, as a practical means of handling aggression, and as a way of life that fosters fearlessness, wisdom, love and friendship. The master interpreted the Art of Peace in the broadest possible sense and believed that its principles of reconciliation, harmony, cooperation, and empathy could be applied bravely to all the challenges we face in life – in personal relations, in our interactions with other human beings in society, at work, and in business, and when dealing with nature. Everyone can be a warrior for peace.”
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“To injure an opponent is to injure yourself. To control aggression without inflicting injury is the Art of Peace”.— Morihei Ueshiba
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