Aikido - The Way of Harmony - Aikido Articles
Aikido is an original martial art which is not competitive or violent. The techniques do not require physical strength or aggressive spirit and can be practised by people of all ages.
The benefits include - self defence, discipline, breath control, relaxation, flexibility, stamina, speed, power, health and harmony etc.
Using circular movement an attackers energy is returned to them, and a variety of methods are used to cause pain and submission, without injury.
In time after focused training, you will develop an inner balance that can be carried into your daily life. Aikido is a key to living naturally and unselfishly in a complicated world.
The teachings tell you that the one point in your lower abdomen is the centre of your universe wherever you go. Keeping your mind concentrated on this point causes relaxation along with the ability to respond fast.
Aikido Founder
Master Morihei Ueshiba O'Sensei (great master- 1883-1969) was known as one of the World's greatest martial artists. Although invincible as a warrior, Morihei was above all a man of peace who detested violence.
After mastering judo, kendo and jujutsu, along with his profound spiritual insight into the nature of the universe, he created aikido, an entirely original martial art based on universal principles.
Morihei taught the art of peace as a mind-body discipline, as a practical means of handling aggression, and as a way of life that develops fearlessness, wisdom, love and friendship.
He believed that aiki principles of reconciliation, harmony and co-operation could be applied bravely to all challenges you face in life.
Although the art originated in Japan, it was intended to be a gift for all humankind. He was often described as being the most religious person in Japan, and in his later years, spent much of his time in study and prayer.
O'Sensei based his skills on his ability to tune into universal energy. The method he used was through the power of sound vibrations. Every day he chanted the pure Kotodama sounds to develop his spiritual powers.
Some of his most prominant students, who became Masters are...
Kisshomaru Ueshiba, Koichi Tohei, Gozo Shioda, Morihiro Saito, Rinjiro Shirata, Michio Hikitsuchi, Kanshu Sunadomari, Takuma Hisa, Tenryu, Minoru Mochizuki, Kenji Tomiki, and many more.
Moriteru Ueshiba (son of Kisshomaru, grandson of Morihei), continues to promote the art to the World from the Hombu Dojo in Japan. The Aikido population keeps growing every year due to the excellent work of the Masters and their dedicated students.
Daily Practise - The Path to Perfection
In essence, aikido is more philosophy and meditation than a series of physical movements, but through mind-body exercises you can gain an understanding of the art and learn how it can be applied to your life.
It can help turn obstacles into potential opportunities and allow you to transform anxiety and pain into vital life-force energy. This can be achieved if you devote some time and energy to daily training.
Many of the amazing exercises can be practised at any time, wherever you stand on the planet Earth. During your training you will learn that the battle is not outside of you, but within. The wisdom and benefits received from hard training are many... health, harmony, enlightenment etc.
It is much more than just another fighting style, it is a holistic approach to life that Morihei Ueshiba described as...
" A divine path inspired by the gods that leads to truth, goodness and beauty "
Morihei demonstrated in the physical world his divine technique, in harmony with nature. Aikido students are familiar with Amazing photo's and films of Morihei as an old man, easily defeating his much younger opponents.
You can step onto the path of Aikido, it is the way of harmony and peace.
Aikido is a modern Japanese Martial Art and is very different from disciplines such as Karate, Kick Boxing, Taekwondo, Kung Fu, MMA, BJJ, Kempo and Krav Maga where there is emphasis on kicking, punching or wrestling.
Aikido is an extremely efficient self defence (also as Self-Defence Women London) system utilising balance-taking and posture-breaking movements to achieve joint locks, pins and throws. It contains elements of Ju Jitsu, Kendo, Judo and other budo.
Aikido Classes are held every Tuesday and Wednesday evening at our Harrow dojo, and Thursday evening at our Pinner dojo in NW London. Pinner Aikido Club London is a part of the Kai Shin Kai International Traditional Aikido Association (KSK), which is a member of the Aikido Alliance.
Aikido is essentially a non-violent Martial art system that encourages the avoidance of confrontation and harmony with an aggressor. The classes are well attended with Aikido students always on the mat and aimed at all levels, from beginner to advanced but everyone is welcome to come along regardless of fitness or experience.
Our Aikido students work at their own pace during the training sessions and no one is forced into doing anything they are not comfortable with.
Pinner Aikido Club in London can help you achieve self-defense skills, self-esteem, confidence, and fitness. Most of all though, our classes are fun.
You do not have to be competitive or naturally athletic to take part in the Aikido class. Learning Aikido is about self-improvement and self-confidence.
Regardless of your size, body type and current level of physical ability or disability. If you are looking for a healthier, more confident way of life, then the modern art of Aikido may well be for you.