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WHAT IS AIKIDO
Aikido is a Japanese
martial art developed by Morihei Ueshiba (often referred to by his title 'O
Sensei' or 'Great Teacher'). On a purely physical level it is an art
involving some throws and joint locks that are derived from jiu-jitsu and
some throws and other techniques derived from kenjutsu. Aikido focuses not
on punching or kicking opponents, but rather on using their own energy to
gain control of them or to throw them away from you. It is not a static
art, but places great emphasis on motion and the dynamics of movement. Upon
closer examination, practitioners will find from Aikido what they are
looking for, whether it is applicable self-defence technique, spiritual
enlightenment, physical health or peace of mind.
O Sensei emphasised
the moral and spiritual aspects of this art, placing great weight on the
development of harmony and peace. "The Way of Harmony of the
Spirit" is one way that "Aikido" may be translated into
English. This is still true of Aikido today, although different styles
emphasise the more spiritual aspects to greater or lesser degrees. Although
the idea of a martial discipline striving for peace and harmony may seem
paradoxical, it is the most basic tenet of the art.
 This particular form of
Martial Art developed by O Sensei - MORIHEI UYESHIBA in Japan which he
refer to as "Aikido" combines practical self-defence movements
taken from sword and spear fighting, jujutsu, aikijutsu and other ancient,
more esoteric forms of martial arts - with an emphasis from the very first
moment of practice upon characteristic centralization of thought and
action, and the extension of mental energy (ki) that makes this such an
Intriguing Art.
Aikido is a method of Self-Defense which can be used against any form of
attack and at it's highest level - a Discipline of Coordination, a
"way" of harmonising all of man's vital powers. There is no
attack in Ki-Aikido; ie. it's goal is merely to neutralize an aggression
and render the attacker harmless, without causing him any serious injury if
at all possible.
The word Aikido, in fact, means, "method or way [do] for the
Coordination or Harmony [ai] of Mental Energy or Spirit [ki]."
Compiled
by Wedmaster, Jonathan Anthony Neo
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