Aikido is a martial art from Japan which was originated by Morihei Uyeshiba after many years of research, practice and development. It is unique among Japanese martial arts.

As suggested by its name, which means "the way of spiritual harmony", Aikido is the art and practice of coming to unity with Nature, there is no duality, no struggle, no opposition, but only the harmonious action of one's mind and spirit with the Spirit of the Universe. The techniques of Aikido are each a physical expression of this harmony, and, as such, reflect the laws of Creation.

The aims of Aikido are to teach the principle of the oneness of all Creation and to bring about, through self-control, the realisation of unity with Nature. The techniques, in addition to fostering physical and mental well-being regardless of age and sex, also provide an effective method of self-defence. They are derived from the ancient art of Japanese fencing. Indeed, it is said that Aikido is the art of fencing without the sword.

The movements used follow the principle of non-resistance: turning away when pushed, entering when pulled; and all the techniques consist of these two elements of motion. In such a way the reed or the willow-tree is able to withstand the force of a gale. There is great stability in the Aikido postures: in stillness, like that of a four-sided pyramid; in action, like that of a spinning top.

In practising the Aikido techniques, one's partner is unbalanced by means of circular motions centred in the region of the hips so as to divert the direction and impetus of his attack and produce a centrifugal or centripetal effect. There is no dualistic opposition, but the partner's body, while under control of one's own, is in complete unity with it. When the continuity of such circular or spherical motion is maintained, the grace and rhythm unique to Aikido appears.

AlKIDO AND SELF-DEFENCE

The techniques of Aikido may be used effectively for self-defence in most circumstances, even if an opponent is armed, in the following ways :

I) by making natural, circular actions which harmonise with the opponent's movements, drawing out his force in the direction of his attack;

2) by controlling the opponent through vulnerable points, such as wrists, shoulder, neck, knee, and so on;

3) by use of the power known as Ki or Kokyu ryoku (the energy in breathing), which is available when body and mind act in harmony.

AIKIDO AND HEALTH

The central aim of Aikido is self-realisation through discipline. This discipline starts with learning to use physical energy correctly in the Aikido movements. With practice, harmony of body and mind gradually develops and, as attachment to immediate results falls away, the process of realisation begins.

Correct performance of the movements improves the general condition of the body, including its bony structures and joints - especially those of the spinal column - and together with the system of deep breathing used, stimulates the blood circulation to every part of the body, and in particular to the joints and some of the inner muscles which are generally under-used. Moreover, the fitness and positive mental attitude which develop have a very favourable effect on one's overall welfare.

AIKIDO TRAINING

This includes four main elements:

1 Bodily realisation

(Tal - lku ) The development of the physical aspect through the practice of the principle of ONENESS in techniques.

2 Mental realisation

( Ki - lku ) The development of energy based on the realisation of ONENESS in the Universe.

3 Moral realisation

(Toku - iku ) Putting into practice in all spheres of life the principle of ONENESS in our daily lives.

4 Spiritual or wisdom realisation

( Chi - iku ) The development of wisdom through coming to know the truth of ONENESS.

The ideal way of Aikido includes all four elements, but the first, bodily realisation, comes foremost in the practice of martial arts.

Before the Second World War, Aikido was not available to the general public, but was taught only to carefully selected students requiring the highest references. After the War, however, the Creator of Aikido, Professor Uyeshiba, decided that it should be spread throughout Japan and the world.

Professor Morihei Uyeshiba passed away peacefully in April 1969 at the age of 88. His son, Professor Kisshomaru Uyeshiba, has taken his place as second master of Aikido.

Aikido was introduced into Europe in 1952 by Professor Tadashi Abbe, a known disciple of the Creator. In 1955, Aikido was brought to Great Britain by Professor Kenshiro Abbe, a former student of the Creator and an 8th Dan in Judo; and from time to time other instructors have come to this country to promote Aikido. Professor Kazuo Chiba, who was an instructor at the Aikikai World Headquarters and who had been personally trained by Professor Morihei Uyeshiba since 1958, was sent to Great Britain in 1966 as the official Aikikai representative.The Aikikai of Great Britain was then formed.