AIKIDO   THE WAY OF HARMONIOUS ENERGY

AIKIDO is a modern martial art in that it was created by the Founder Morihei Ueshiba, respectfully called O-Sensei by all aikidoka. It came into being after many years of study in various martial disciplines by O-Sensei. He was seeking a practice that encompassed many of the tenets and principles that he felt were essential to the healthy growth of the human community. The result is an art that avoids the aggressor by re-directing their energy into a less destructive path. It is by avoiding the path of violence that we as Aikido practitioners blend with that force and diffuse it.

Not designed for competition, there are none.Its purpose is to compete with one’s self and win that match by finding improvement.The movements are flowing and circular. They require balance and centre rather than strength and force. The very nature of the art is to practice in concert with a partner to help each other in finding better balance and flow. Being relaxed is the central key to successful Aikido.

Aikido does not rely on size or strength for its effectiveness, but rather uses timing, body dynamics, and centred movement. Moving from the centre creates relaxed posture as well as physical and mental balance.

Training harmonises body, mind, and spirit and enables the student to encounter stressful circumstances without being thrown off kilter. It also creates a resiliency of the body and an openness of the mind—qualities needed in our society, and our daily lives.

Students start Aikido for physical fitness, for self-defence, or because they are fascinated by the philosophy. Any reason to start is a good one. They often find, as they continue to practice, that they are enjoying themselves, because Aikido is fun.

It is an art whose principles embrace balance, harmony and elegance. Aikido does have application as a method of self-defence in that it re-directs the energy of an aggressive advance. It is however a great form of self-enhancement. Practised by both men and women well into their 60s and 70s. This is possible because Aikido is adaptable to each person and their needs.