An introduction to Aikido
Aikido(合気道) is a self – defence martial art which emphasises harmony with one's inner strength rather than focusing solely on physical strength. It was founded by Morihei Ueshiba (photo on the left) who created his own martial art after he studied many martial arts. In Aikido, you do not attack unless you are the attacking role in the practice. The final goal for someone practicing Aikido is to be able to achieve a harmony with all, even those who attack you. Aikido is also called ‘the moving zen’, ‘martial art of love’, ‘martial art of harmony’.
Philosophy of Aikido
The word ‘Aikido' consists of three kanjis, 合,気,道. The first, 合, means harmony, the second, ki, which makes the word, aiki, or 合気. 道 is the Japanese word for path, so Aikido literally means ‘the path of harmony with ki’.
The founder, Morihei Ueshiba, stated, ‘Aiki is to love’. There are different opinions about the interpretation of this word, however, we know a few things for certain; the power of ki is the energy that is scientifically proved to exist, and is believed to be the energy of the universe, which can produce greater energy than your physical energy. By combining yourself with the power/force of ki, you will be able to achieve power which cannot possibly be produced with just physical force.
Aikido is a martial art, but there is no winning and losing. The fundamental philosophy is not to compete against one another for victory, but is the opposite, as it opposes the competition for victory, and it is meant to be a path to reduce mental and emotional friction with the opponent, and aim to create a harmonious self with nature and universe, and with others, thus leading to the founder’s statement, ‘Aiki is to love’.
The founder, Morihei Ueshiba, stated, ‘Aiki is to love’. There are different opinions about the interpretation of this word, however, we know a few things for certain; the power of ki is the energy that is scientifically proved to exist, and is believed to be the energy of the universe, which can produce greater energy than your physical energy. By combining yourself with the power/force of ki, you will be able to achieve power which cannot possibly be produced with just physical force.
Aikido is a martial art, but there is no winning and losing. The fundamental philosophy is not to compete against one another for victory, but is the opposite, as it opposes the competition for victory, and it is meant to be a path to reduce mental and emotional friction with the opponent, and aim to create a harmonious self with nature and universe, and with others, thus leading to the founder’s statement, ‘Aiki is to love’.
'Ki no Kenkyukai'
Koichi Tohei is the founder of 'Ki no kennkyukai' style Aikido. He was the first one to explain the power of ki in simple and straightforward words, opposed to Morihei Ueshiba who taught using quotes from 'Kojiki', an ancient Japanese text, or used very abstract language. He was the chief instructor of all the teachers who taught under Morihei Ueshiba.