| Aikido
is a dynamic martial art based on harmony and reconciliation.
Literally translated, Aikido means the Way (Do) to Harmony (Ai)
with Life Energy (Ki). |
| Aikido is a modern expression deeply rooted in the
ancient tradition of Japanese budo. Although usually
translated as "martial art," budo encompasses
much more than fighting prowess. In budo, the warrior
arts are used for self-refinement and for the protection,
enhancement and understanding of life. |
| The uniqueness of Aikido is that it does not oppose
force but harmonizes with it, redirecting and neutralizing an
attack. Aikido aims not only to save one's own life, but to
bring an attacker under control without necessity of inflicting
injury. Aikido seeks to end cycles of aggression and violence. |
|
|
Aikido founder Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969), called
O Sensei or "great teacher," was an extraordinary
martial artist who studied and mastered many styles of
jiu-jitsu, sword and spear fighting as a young man. He was also
a deeply spiritual man, engaged in a lifelong search for true
understanding. Although Ueshiba came to be regarded as
invincible, he remained dissatisfied with his achievement,
feeling that the questions at the heart of budo remained
unresolved. He probed with great intensity into the nature of
the fighting arts and their role in human life, undertaking
fiercely demanding physical and spiritual training. |
| In his mid 40s, Ueshiba had a deep insight which
profoundly altered his life and work. He found that true
strength was the strength of harmony with nature, and that in
this harmony was discovered not a winner and a loser but the
substance of love. The function of budo was loving protection,
not killing and struggling with each other. He devoted the
remainder of his life to developing the art of Aikido. |
| Aikido techniques are the dynamic application of
natural law, reflecting the ebbs and flows, curves, waves and
spirals of nature. Aikido training develops flexibility,
relaxation, strength without aggression and a vibrant
integration of body, mind and spirit. Aikido training is a
practical exploration of personal and social responsibility and
provides tools for living more harmoniously with ourselves and
others in the larger world. |
| Ultimately,
Aikido is journey toward the heart or center of existence.
Aikido seeks an understanding of life that transcends dualities
of offense/defense, weak/strong, self/other, opening a path
toward wisdom and compassion. In the words of O Sensei,
"There are neither opponents nor enemies in true budo. True
budo is to be one with the universe; that is, to be united with
the center of the universe." |
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©
Aikido of Missoula, www.aikidomissoula.com
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