tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36315718920147591412024-02-20T11:23:40.999-08:00Shobu AikidoOfficial blog site for Sensei William Gleason and Shobu Aikido of BostonShobu Aikidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16166194511889029948noreply@blogger.comBlogger20125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631571892014759141.post-86883537073173399672020-04-18T11:59:00.001-07:002020-04-18T12:01:33.213-07:00The AI of Aikido<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman";"> O-sensei stated, “Without understanding the Kojiki, you can’t grasp the reality of Aikido.” The Kojiki, or “Record of Ancient Happenings,” is the Japanese story of creation. It is a symbolic explanation of the dual opposing forces of nature. When we speak of these as universal function, they are called </span><i style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Kami, </i><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">or "Deity" in Japanese. When we speak of them as the breath of life, they are called </span><i style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Iki. Kami </i><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">is fire and water circling around and enveloping each other each in its turn. This derives from the word <i>Karami</i></span><i style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">, </i><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">"To wind around, or encircle." </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman";"> The creative function of the <i>Kami </i>is expressed through fifty word souls or </span><i style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">kototama, </i><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">beginning with <i>Mu, </i>the vast emptiness, </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">and</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman";"> <i>Su, </i>it's creative movement. Inside of the steamy mist <i>(Musu), s</i></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">pontaneously, a point <i>(I) </i>appears. From this point expansion <i>(A) </i></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">reaches out in all directions. This is</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman";"> </span><i style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">AI. </i><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">I have addressed this at some length in relation to Aikido training, yet the physical training alone may not always reach the depths of what, I believe, O-sensei's was trying to express. </span></div>
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From a universal point of view, the expansion that gives birth to all things is infinite compassion, the kototama of <i>A. </i>The Point from which it expands is the root of wisdom, the kototama of <i>I. </i>This is the real meaning of <i>AI. </i>It is compassion, never withheld, and forever overflowing. It is balanced by wisdom, the ability to stand in the center, using skillful means rather than force, to alleviate suffering in the world. </div>
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The essential point to grasp here is that these two forces are completely interdependent. Compassion (fire) and Wisdom (water) can’t exist, or function successfully, without each other. Attempting to help others, without having clear vision yourself, you may create more problems than you resolve. More misplaced however, is wisdom without compassion. It is dead and cold. Unable to maintain its balance, even potential genius may drift into insanity.<br />
In order to utilize the gifts of wisdom and compassion that lie at the very root of our nature, we must train both body and mind. We cannot be said to understand the message of Aikido if we are unable to manifest it in our physical practice. In the words of the founder, "Aikido is the superlative way to practice the <i>kototama." </i>Especially at this difficult time, let us keep our spirits high, and keep moving forward towards the goal of <i>AI</i>. </div>
Shobu Aikidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16166194511889029948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631571892014759141.post-33663389173328228662019-11-08T17:53:00.000-08:002019-11-08T17:57:51.162-08:00Sangen. Part 3, The Square<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">In the words of Yamaguchi sensei, The Square represents variety, yet this is quite an understatement. The square is the solid foundation on which the activity of the triangle and the circle depends. The triangle represents the mind that gives birth to movement. It is Intent reaching out and creating movement and form. The Circle is the manifest form created by that movement. The square is stabilization and creativity and it brings this process to its completion. It is the stabilization of movement through the balance of yin and yang. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"> The Japanese word for “Square,“ is <i>Shikaku, </i>or “Four corners.” <i>Shikaku, </i>however, can also mean “competency” or “mastery.” The triangle and the Circle represent direction and form, yet without the function of the square there is no power or effectiveness. The Square is Earth, or more specifically, “Mountain.” In the words of O-sensei, “Power is from the Earth, direction is from Heaven.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"> The monk Takuan referred to mastery as <i>Fudoshin, </i>immoveable body/mind. He went on to explain that, “Immoveable mind is the mind that is constantly in motion.” In other words, although it is unshakeable it is never attached to or stuck on any one thing. O-sensei referred to it with the Shinto term <i>Takemusu Aiki, </i>usually interpreted as the continual and spontaneous creation of new forms. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> Take </span></i><span style="font-size: 14pt;">is the continual interchange of yin and yang and <i>Musu,</i>is <i>Musubi, </i>harmonizing the forces of yin and yang. In order to do this, the master must be at home, in the center, between those forces, and freely balancing them. O-sensei referred to this ability as <i>Ame no Uki Hashi ni Tateru, “</i>Standing on the floating bridge of Heaven.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;">Harmonizing the forces of yin and yang is to bring them under control. This was expressed by the founder as <i>Bring your partner down (Osae) in the sign of the square. Osae </i>is not only to physically bring someone down. It also means to calm things down, to gather ki inside and bring things to a state of harmony. The square represents the perfect balance of yin and yang represented by the Eight Powers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;">In other words, the square is the endless source of variety and creativity. We should never be stuck in any one form or another, but rather we should allow the principle of Aiki to inform our feelings, thoughts, and movement. Rooted to the earth, the source of power, and looking to Heaven, or principle, for direction; this is the path towards Spiritual freedom.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Shobu Aikidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16166194511889029948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631571892014759141.post-51896089213551952352019-09-13T06:33:00.000-07:002019-09-13T06:41:21.620-07:00Sangen. The Three Origins. Part 11, The Circle.<br />
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<o:p> </o:p>As discussed in part 1, the Triangle and the Circle are two aspects of spiral movement, the underlying form of nature and also of Aikido. As the triangle represents the basic principle of Aikido, the circle represents the world of form. It is "Totality," the beginning of polarity, movement, and all manifest form. </div>
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Its perfect shape gives it more dynamic power than any other form. We may divide the world into feeling and form. Feeling is ki and although it creates form, it represents the invisible world. The world of movement, and form, begins with expansion in all directions, a perfect circle.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The motive power <i>(Hataraki) </i>of this expansion is Intent <i>(Yi). </i>Standing at the absolute center of all things, it is the link between the will to move and the manifestation of that action. It creates <i>Ha, </i>opening forcefully, <i>Ta, </i>the power of contrast, and <i>Ra, </i>spiral form opening. In the teachings of the founder we find, “Before, during, and after the technique, open in the six directions.” </div>
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Expanding <i>(A) </i>from our physical center <i>(I), </i>we manifest <i>AI, </i>the perfect harmony of <i>Yin </i>and <i>Yang. </i>In Japanese Shinto this is represented by the symbol for <i>Su, </i>the creative power of nature. It is a circle with an inverted checkmark <i></i>at its center. The circle represents “Heaven,” the infinite universe. The checkmark is Intent, the first movement of mind. </div>
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The spirit of Aikido is direct, <i>(Irimi), </i>yet the form is circular. A circle creates a straight line, which is actually a still larger circle. This is the interchange of fire <i>(E) </i>and water <i>(I) </i>ki. In Shinto it is said, <i>“Fire moves and water is moved.” </i>In other words, the mind (Intent) moves the body. Without developing strong intent we cannot speak of ki or internal power. </div>
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<i> </i>The circular form and movement of Aikido keeps your partner outside of your sphere of influence. The founder said, “If I can lead my partner out of his sphere of influence, he will be easily thrown.” When your partner attacks, it is like he is trying to hold onto a large ball that is both expanding and rotating. There is no collision of force, yet he is immediately displaced or unbalanced. </div>
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<i> </i>In the teaching of Ueshiba Morihei we find, “Perform the technique <i>(Tai Sabaki) </i>in the sign of the circle.” This means that the entire technique should be accomplished with <i>Tenkan, </i>the changing of our hanmi, or even the simple rotation of our torso from one side to the other. This turning (Fire) is accompanied by rising and descending (Water) <i></i>ki on the right and left sides of our body.</div>
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Finally, the unique form of Aikido technique depends of the arc of the arms. Although the upper and lower arms are straight lines, they must move as circles. This is subtle and difficult to discover; it needs to be passed down from teacher to student. The arc of the arms is called <i>Enkatsu. En </i>is a circle and <i>Katsu </i>means to smooth things out and eliminate difficulty. Although many Aikido techniques come from older arts, the circular and flowing form of Aikido is unique to barehanded training. </div>
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People often try to create spiral form in their technique, yet there should be no attempt to create any kind of form. Rather move your own body according to the principle of Aiki, or yin and yang, and the correct form will be discovered. This is the meaning of <i>Tai Sabaki, </i>or “Judgment in motion.” </div>
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Shobu Aikidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16166194511889029948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631571892014759141.post-69433586498923296282019-06-07T12:37:00.000-07:002019-06-08T14:10:34.999-07:00Sangen, The Three Origins. Part 1, The Triangle. <div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"> Yamaguchi sensei (1924-1996) held an annual Black Belt training in 1973 and I had the good fortune to attend that training with many others who followed his teachings. Before the class began, he passed out a handout, and in his customary dry humor stated, “I doubt if this will be of any use to you. It’s just my musings.” It turned out, in fact, to be quite deep and has caused me a lot of thought, even up to this day. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;">He opened the paper with this introduction: </span><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 14pt;">“The great Zen priest Sengai, created poetry and paintings. One of his drawings shows the figures </span><b><span style="background-color: white; color: #656565; font-family: "ms reference sans serif"; font-size: 14pt;">△</span></b><b><span style="background-color: white; color: #656565; font-family: "times"; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></b><b><span style="background-color: white; color: #656565; font-family: "menlo regular"; font-size: 14pt;">▢</span></b><b><span style="background-color: white; color: #656565; font-family: "times"; font-size: 14pt;"></span></b><b><span style="background-color: white; color: #656565; font-family: "menlo regular"; font-size: 14pt;">◯</span></b><b><span style="background-color: white; color: #656565; font-family: "times"; font-size: 14pt;">. </span></b><span style="background-color: white; color: #656565; font-family: "times"; font-size: 14pt;"></span><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 14pt;">A great philosopher always makes us think deeply. The triangle means “basic.” The square means “variation.” The circle means “totality.” The figure, given an overview, is a spiral.” </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;">The founder stated, <i>“Aikido is the way and principle of harmonizing Heaven, Man, and Earth.”</i>This is sangen, yet it can also be expressed as yin, yang, and center, as well as fire, water, and earth. In essence, it is universal principle. In Taoism, it is the <i>Tao; </i>that which is neither absolute nor relative. The threefold nature of universal principle is shown in the three points of the triangle. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;">The triangle has two parts. The circle (water) and the square (earth) each have one. The triangle is both heaven <i>(I) </i>and fire <i>(E). </i>The kototama of <i>I </i>is the Life Will. The fire ki of <i>E, </i>added to the water ki of heaven becomes fire within water, the kototama of <i>Yi. </i>This <i></i>is Intent, that which gives birth to polarity and thereby also to movement.<i></i>When intent is strong, the mind moves the body. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;">As Intent is the basic quality of mind, stance is the basic beginning of physical practice. In the words of the founder, “<i>Face your partner with the Irimi Hanmi posture of Aiki. If you face directly towards the enemy there will be many openings and you will be at a disadvantage.” </i></span><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 14pt;">The triangle shows the proper physical and mental posture of Budo.</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;">Yamaguchi sensei often said, <i>“Irimi </i>is the spirit of Aikido.” The form of Aikido is circular, yet the spirit is direct. As a form of <i>Budo, </i>Aikido manifests the attitude of <i>Go no Sen, </i>entering the moment your partner’s mind is set on his own attack. It is also expressed as moving first after your partner moves.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: 14pt;">“Enter in the sign of the triangle.” </span></i><span style="font-size: 14pt;">If your mind is stopped, or focused on reacting to your partner’s attack, you will be unable to enter, or give a new direction to his or her force. Our body must be relaxed, yet our mind must be alert and ready for action at all times. The circle is the form of the manifest world, yet it is the triangle that creates the forward movement of the circle. This will be discussed in the next section on the circle. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Shobu Aikidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16166194511889029948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631571892014759141.post-109799096373667252018-10-26T16:14:00.000-07:002018-10-26T16:23:14.471-07:00Aikido as Martial Art<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"> It has been said that Aikido is neither “Martial” nor “Art,” yet this is a very cynical, and also short sighted, statement. The study of "Aiki" is the study of nature’s principle. As such it is the study of the self, which is the highest art possible. The study of Aikido also nourishes adaptability and strength of both mind and body, the essential foundation of good martial art. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;">To apply the principle of Aiki to the sophisticated techniques of Aikido is an incredibly sensitive study requiring a lifetime to master. The techniques of Aikido were never intended to be used for real self-defense. Aikido techniques are tools for the development of an Aiki body, the very foundation of Japanese Budo. Since ancient times it has been said that the person who embodies Aiki is undefeatable <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"> If one were to follow the criticism that Aikido is not a martial art, we would also have to say that no form of barehanded training qualifies as such. Against a weapon such as a knife, your chances of success are certainly not guaranteed. Against a gun, your chances are much less. Against military force, you will instantly be annihilated. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"> Being clear about these things we should begin by acknowledging that we study Martial art for the purpose of gaining wisdom and insight into the principles of life and nature. This has been the case in Budo, since the end of the Kamakura Era in Japan when swords and barehanded combat ceased to be used in real battle. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"> The object of our training is to challenge ourselves as human beings and to create a better environment, and world, now and in the future. In today’s often dishonest, and completely competitive society, it has become difficult for people to grasp such noble concepts, yet without them we are most certainly doomed to great misery, if not total destruction. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Shobu Aikidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16166194511889029948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631571892014759141.post-86761252922116454272018-09-10T15:13:00.001-07:002020-05-26T08:30:55.255-07:00Aikido & The Eight Powers (3)<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
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Finally, although there is always more to say about Aiki principle, I would like to attempt to briefly summarize this topic of The Eight Powers. As discussed in the July blog, the unity of <b>Heaven and Earth </b>creates the overview of the Eight Powers. <u>Heaven</u> is yang creative force, the detail of which is expressed in <u>Thunder</u> and <u>Fire</u>, and finally summarized in the symbol of the <u>Lake</u>. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<u>Earth</u>, on the other hand, governs the Yin, receptive powers, of <u>Wind</u> and <u>Water</u>, and comes to its completion in the symbol of the <u>Mountain.</u> Heaven and Earth represent individuality and universality as one. This recalls the words of the founder, <i>Ware Soku Uchu, Uchi Soku Ware, </i>“The universe and I are one and the same.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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The last two symbols, in the order that I have presented them, are <b>Lake and Mountain. </b>Mountain symbolizes <i>Fudoushin, </i>immovable mind and body. This is the level of mastery. It is the Eight Powers rooted by the life Will and Power. It should be noted here that, in the words of the monk Takuan, ”Immoveable mind is the mind that is always in motion.” <o:p></o:p></div>
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The stability of the body as well, is not a rigid state; movement inside the body creates it. The statement, “Movement in rest and rest in movement” also points towards this reality. Stability is the foundation of control upon which mastery rests. The exterior expression of this mastery is the gentle emanation of ki, a peaceful aura of wisdom reflecting whatever comes before it. This is shown in the symbol of the Lake. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The symbol of the Mountain represents the Eight Powers within a square. The square is “endless variation,” what the founder referred to as <i>Takemusu Aiki. </i>He further explained it as “Standing on the Floating Bridge of Heaven.” It is to stand in the center, here and now, and freely balance yin and yang in motion. <i><o:p></o:p></i></div>
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Mountain symbolizes completion and perfection just as Thunder symbolizes the beginning, or exciting, of movement. Thunder is intent flying out in all directions, It is youth and vitality. Lake, on the other hand, is the peaceful emanation of ki. It is the difference between youthful energy and the gentle power of a master. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The symbol of the Lake shows the kototama of <i>Ti, </i>which is the fullness of both ki and wisdom. This is the Eight Powers represented through the activity of the Circle, the infinitely expanding ki that creates all things. <i>Ti </i>may be seen here as an abbreviation of <i>Michi, </i>the path, or Way of Life, of a true human being. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Shobu Aikidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16166194511889029948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631571892014759141.post-56003750724517527642018-08-07T09:13:00.000-07:002020-05-26T08:27:49.325-07:00Aikido & The Eight Powers (Part ll)<span style="font-family: "times new roman";"> In the July post, I explained the first two sets of the eight powers. Before moving on, it may be useful to categorize them into yin and yang groups. The Yang powers are examples of expanding, or creative ki. The Yin powers are receptive and nurturing energy. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman";">They are as follows:</span><br />
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Yang Yin<o:p></o:p></div>
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Heaven * Unity Earth * Separation<o:p></o:p></div>
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Thunder * Release Wind * Tension<o:p></o:p></div>
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Fire * Movement Water * Rest<o:p></o:p></div>
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Lake * Expansion Mountain * Stability<o:p></o:p></div>
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Each of these four sets has a technical side, as related to the practice of Aikido, and a spiritual side, which relates to our daily life. In reality the four pairs complement each other and cannot exist as separate entities. The spiritual side of Thunder and Wind is health and vitality. The water ki of wind, nurtured deep inside our kidneys, creates our vitality and determines the length of our life.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The next set is that of Fire and Water, the powers of Movement and Rest. The teaching is that <i>Fire moves and water is moved. </i>In other words, it is the mind that moves and the body that is moved. <i></i>In Aikido practice, the projection of your mind must pass through your partner before physical contact is established. This pure and unrestricted movement of mind is the kototama of <i>Shi </i>and <i>Su.</i><o:p></o:p></div>
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Water is “rest,” yet this is not stopping. Aikido techniques must always be performed in motion. Water here symbolizes the tightly wound spiral of principle <i>(Ri). </i>It is conformity to this principle that redirects outside force, slowing it down and creating harmonious form. This is <i>Takemusu Aiki. </i><o:p></o:p></div>
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In Aikido practice the principle of fire and water manifests as <i>Movement before contact and Kuzushi, taking your partner’s balance, upon contact. </i>Unless we receive our partner’s power with rotation there will be a collision of force. The attempt to create form directly has the same result. Force against force kills Aiki.<i><o:p></o:p></i></div>
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At this point the spiritual aspects of these two powers should be somewhat clear. Fire is free movement, the creative aspect of mind. When this ki is redirected according to principle and higher reason, harmony and a peaceful environment are the natural result. This is impossible if we are self-serving or shortsighted in our outlook. In the words of Confucius “At seventy years old, I was able to do whatever I wanted and still conform to the way.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Shobu Aikidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16166194511889029948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631571892014759141.post-40154148536636431942018-07-24T06:12:00.001-07:002020-05-26T08:46:47.115-07:00Aikido and the Eight Powers.<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
In the teachings of the founder we find. “Aikido is One Spirit, Four Souls, Three Origins and Eight Powers. Lacking an understanding of this Aikido cannot be grasped.” I have dealt at length with One Spirit, Four Souls, and Three Origins, yet it remains to clarify the meaning of the eight powers. The single ideograms (Kanji) representing each of the eight powers have been translated, yet only directly and without clarification of the real meaning intended or how it relates to our Aikido practice.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The Eight Powers are an overview of all natural power. The power of nature is never unidirectional or manipulative, but rather always the product of the balance of yin and yang forces. Considered individually, each of the eight powers are a priori entities. They have no actual existence until they interact with their opposites. Without the interchange of yin and yang, there is no Aiki and therefore no manifestation. <o:p></o:p></div>
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To describe all eight powers here would be too lengthy and so I will begin with the first four and then follow up with the remaining four in a future blog. The implications are rich and numerous, yet it is necessary here to stick with a bare bones explanation just to introduce the subject for those who are truly trying to grasp the teachings of Ueshiba Morihei, O-sensei. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Unity and Separation. Heaven and Earth<o:p></o:p></div>
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Unity is the world of <i>ki, </i>or spirit, and separation is the manifest, or physical world. In reality these are two inseparable aspects of one reality. Our physical movement should be independent from our partner, yet we must be completely unified through ki or mind. Only in this way can both freedom of movement and harmony with our environment be achieved. It is because we are completely unified with all things that we have the responsibility to move independently. Lacking this understanding we cannot avoid conflict. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Tension – Release. Thunder and Wind {Wood} <o:p></o:p></div>
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Tension is intent, the working of fire within water. It is that which gives birth to yin and yang and thereby to movement, as the release of tension. This initial movement is the explosive force of creative ki symbolized by Thunder, In Aikido it is our <i>De-Ai, </i>coming out to meet our partner’s force. <o:p></o:p></div>
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With our exhalation there is release, yet intent remains extended. This allows for the absorbing and nurturing of <i>Ki </i>inside. Saotome sensei refers to it as Bio-Feedback. In other words reaching out is for the purpose of physically receiving and unifying with our partner. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Shobu Aikidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16166194511889029948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631571892014759141.post-12937984389813469172017-03-07T11:30:00.000-08:002017-03-07T11:30:04.344-08:00Aikido and Spiritual Development<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
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<span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"> What is “Spiritual Development?” It
is the main focus of Aikido training; that is the development of <i>Ki.</i> <i>Ki </i>has five dimensions which will be discussed later. Outside of these five dimensions of <i>Ki, </i>there is no such thing as internal power. Learning proper mechanics of Aiki movement is only effective once the whole body connectivity of <i>Ki </i>has been realized. </span></div>
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<span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"> This opens up the deepest dimensions of our sub-conscious mind and leads to personal growth and transformation. When there is no longer any division between yourself and “the world
out there,” the wisdom of enlightenment shines through you. Regardless of how
this is achieved, spiritual development can only occur by opening up and
strengthening the five dimensions of consciousness.</span></div>
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<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>In the
words of the late Kisshomaru Ueshiba, “When you have reached a certain level in
Aikido, you have already been psychologically transformed.” This doesn’t happen
merely by the repetition of kata or basic technique. Kata contains the wisdom
of the masters who created it, yet it will not reveal itself to you without
great patience and diligent research. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Furthermore,
even developing your ki to a high level is not a guarantee of becoming a better
person. Everyone starts from a different place and the power of ki can be
misused. It is for this reason that the masters of old refused to teach a
student until his, or her, character had been observed and proven over a period
of time. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Assuming
that your intentions are correct and you pursue this path of development, you
will encounter continuous difficulty. You will be distracted and the goal will
often seem insurmountable. The things that you understand today will be shown
to be inferior tomorrow, yet in this way, you will grow daily experiencing both
breakthroughs and plateaus. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>In the end,
the real level of your Aikido will be shown through you clear vision,
character, and leadership. Many people become strong through repetition, yet
they will never enjoy the fruits of spiritual achievement until they throw this
power away and seek out the real meaning of ki in daily life as well as on the
mat. <o:p></o:p></div>
Shobu Aikidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16166194511889029948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631571892014759141.post-80456180599517601202012-03-05T09:28:00.000-08:002012-03-05T09:28:09.974-08:00Aikido no Michi<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:DocumentProperties> <o:Revision>0</o:Revision> <o:TotalTime>0</o:TotalTime> <o:Pages>1</o:Pages> <o:Words>204</o:Words> <o:Characters>1168</o:Characters> <o:Company>Shobu Aikido Inc.</o:Company> <o:Lines>9</o:Lines> <o:Paragraphs>2</o:Paragraphs> <o:CharactersWithSpaces>1370</o:CharactersWithSpaces> <o:Version>14.0</o:Version> </o:DocumentProperties> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves/> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:DoNotPromoteQF/> <w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/> <w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/> <w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/> <w:OverrideTableStyleHps/> <w:UseFELayout/> </w:Compatibility> <m:mathPr> <m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/> <m:brkBin m:val="before"/> <m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/> <m:smallFrac m:val="off"/> <m:dispDef/> <m:lMargin m:val="0"/> <m:rMargin m:val="0"/> <m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/> <m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/> <m:intLim m:val="subSup"/> <m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/> </m:mathPr></w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<div class="MsoNormal"> The path of Aikido is very powerful. If you practice diligently and sincerely, your growth will be deep and even visible from week to week, month to month, and especially from year to year. If however, you have been practicing for several years and the ability to realize wisdom and power has evaded you, you must seek out the obstruction to progress in your daily life.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Aikido can’t be taught, yet if the proper method of practicing is followed, it will be realized as actual ability and wisdom. Even grasping the deepest secrets however, if your heart and mind are not correct, you will be unable to realize it. In the words of the founder, “Realization of the Divine Spirit is accomplished through practice. If there is the smallest separation from the Divine Spirit then the way is not being followed.”</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The path of Aikido unfolds as the function of spirit, mind, and body. Spirit is Makoto, honesty to yourself and others with no procrastination or excuses. Mind is the power of intention that manifest the power of ki. Body is the shrine, or temple, of our existence, the vehicle that we use to train the mind and spirit. The way should be as natural as getting up and putting your feet on the ground, yet without maintaining purity of body and mind it becomes like the words of Zen master Ummon, “To sweep out the garden, who has the strength. “</div><!--EndFragment-->Shobu Aikidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16166194511889029948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631571892014759141.post-35569011831096884832012-02-23T13:49:00.000-08:002012-02-23T13:49:39.438-08:00The Divine Cross<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:DocumentProperties> <o:Revision>0</o:Revision> <o:TotalTime>0</o:TotalTime> <o:Pages>1</o:Pages> <o:Words>141</o:Words> <o:Characters>808</o:Characters> <o:Company>Shobu Aikido Inc.</o:Company> <o:Lines>6</o:Lines> <o:Paragraphs>1</o:Paragraphs> <o:CharactersWithSpaces>948</o:CharactersWithSpaces> <o:Version>14.0</o:Version> </o:DocumentProperties> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves/> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:DoNotPromoteQF/> <w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/> <w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/> <w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/> <w:OverrideTableStyleHps/> <w:UseFELayout/> </w:Compatibility> <m:mathPr> <m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/> <m:brkBin m:val="before"/> <m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/> <m:smallFrac m:val="off"/> <m:dispDef/> <m:lMargin m:val="0"/> <m:rMargin m:val="0"/> <m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/> <m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/> <m:intLim m:val="subSup"/> <m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/> </m:mathPr></w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .25in;">It is a uniqueness of universal order and principle that the simplest physical reality is eventually revealed as containing the highest wisdom and spirituality. In Aikido this is to stand properly and become the perfect receiver. Your ultimate response can only be correct to the degree that you have achieved this. This is no small feat. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .25in;">It begins with what is called ki extension. Stretching the spine upward and down to become rooted in both Heaven and earth, you establish yourself at the center of the six directions. This is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Irimi, </i>the spirit of Aikido; sending your ki out in all directions to infinity; our own intention meeting and merging with the universal will. O-sensei called it the “Divine Cross.” This is the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">kototama </i>of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Tou </i>or <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Tao, </i>in Japanese pronounced <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Dou. </i>It is the fulfillment of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Michi, </i>the highest level of Aikido. It is also the elimination of duality, or separation. It is called <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Gokui, </i>“exteme will” or “radical faith.”<o:p></o:p></div><!--EndFragment-->Shobu Aikidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16166194511889029948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631571892014759141.post-65195495461239657972012-01-28T14:42:00.000-08:002012-01-28T14:42:04.541-08:00Heaven-Earth-Fire-Water.<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">The aikido of a true master will always appear to be fake. In fact if it looks real it is nothing more than the use of unreasonable force to manipulate another person. This is not truly aikido. The reason for this is that the arms, which create visible form, are not used in bringing your partner down or throwing. Bringing your partner down is the result of projecting your intention, or ki, from your Hara and the trunk of your body down and through your partner’s body to his spine. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"> The trunk of the body is where the ki of Heaven and Earth function vertically, rising and descending. The arms and legs are the ki of water and fire, rising up and branching out horizontally. This distinction should be clearly understood if one is to practice properly. Standing at the center of these forces as the neutral receiver, real aikido becomes possible. Herein lies the real meaning behind O-sensei’s use of the words, “No Enemy.”<o:p></o:p></div>Shobu Aikidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16166194511889029948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631571892014759141.post-3243898661766974622011-11-01T08:26:00.000-07:002011-11-01T08:26:09.036-07:00The Spirit of Aikido<!--StartFragment--> <br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">Human beings are born from the interchange of Heaven <i>(A)</i><span style="font-style: normal;"> and Earth </span><i>(U). </i><span style="font-style: normal;">Standing between the two, consciousness begins as </span><i>(Wa=UA) </i><span style="font-style: normal;">Heaven refers to sunshine, the air we breathe, and even our highest aspirations. Earth is gross matter, the ground of being, and our physical body itself. When water ki </span><i>(O)</i><span style="font-style: normal;"> flows through the earth the vitality of the life force </span><i>(Yo)</i><span style="font-style: normal;"> is awakened from its slumber and the life will </span><i>(I) </i><span style="font-style: normal;">begins to reach towards it’s highest aspirations </span><i>(A), </i>the manifestation of its own perfection. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">This process takes place in the life of every child, yet too often this fountain of youth runs dry and vitality is lost before wisdom can be realized. The balance of our soul and spirit needs to be maintain through proper training in Aiki. In this way we maintain and further develop the harmonious interchange between will <i>(I) </i>and vitality <i>(O)</i>. When vitality becomes dominant over the will, we lose the unified focus of intention <i>(Yi) </i><span style="font-style: normal;">and the wisdom of Aiki</span><i> (Gokui) </i><span style="font-style: normal;">is missed. What an incredible waste</span></div><!--EndFragment-->Shobu Aikidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16166194511889029948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631571892014759141.post-28625795726464069472011-09-22T13:05:00.001-07:002011-09-22T13:05:31.760-07:00Aikido Principle in a Nutshell.<!--StartFragment--> <br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: Times-Roman; font-size: 16.0pt;">I have written previously about Aiki principle, yet it is extremely subtle and easy to miss in our practice. It is necessary therefore to further clarify it and make it more easily accessible. O-sensei described it as </span><span style="font-family: Times-Italic; font-size: 16.0pt;"><i>Ame no Uki Hashi,</i></span><span style="font-family: Times-Roman; font-size: 16.0pt;"> "The Floating Bridge of Heaven.” In Shinto this is</span><span style="font-family: Times-Italic; font-size: 16.0pt;"><i> </i></span><span style="font-family: Times-Roman; font-size: 16.0pt;">the divine cross of fire and water ki. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Times-Roman; font-size: 16.0pt;"> The principle of Aiki didn’t begin with O-sensei or even with Takeda Sokaku of Daito Ryu fame. It is at least five thousand years old and is the foundation of Chinese martial art, medicine, and philosophy. It begins with the statement <i>ten-jin-chi</i></span><span style="font-family: Times-Roman; font-size: 16.0pt;">, which indicates the vertical relationship between Heaven, Man, and Earth. This is the first manifestation of <i>Aiki.</i></span><span style="font-family: Times-Roman; font-size: 16.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Times-Roman; font-size: 16.0pt;"> This vertical relationship is also called </span><span style="font-family: Times-Italic; font-size: 16.0pt;"><i>tate. </i></span><span style="font-family: Times-Italic; font-size: 16.0pt;">I</span><span style="font-family: Times-Roman; font-size: 16.0pt;">t is water ki, the foundation of the physical world, standing up vertically. The horizontal line of the cross is called </span><span style="font-family: Times-Italic; font-size: 16.0pt;"><i>yoko. </i></span><span style="font-family: Times-Roman; font-size: 16.0pt;"> It is fire ki branching out from the vertical trunk or stem of the physical world. Fire ki is active and moves; water ki is passive and is moved. This active and passive relationship is essential to manifesting aiki in our movement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Times-Roman; font-size: 16.0pt;"> Mankind moving through the center of this form gives it intention <i>(Yi), </i></span><span style="font-family: Times-Roman; font-size: 16.0pt;">which activates the cross to begin turning and create <i>naname, </i></span><span style="font-family: Times-Roman; font-size: 16.0pt;">the diagonal, or spiral form of the manifest world. This is what O-sensei referred to as </span><span style="font-family: Times-Italic; font-size: 16.0pt;"><i>Takemusu, </i></span><span style="font-family: Times-Roman; font-size: 16.0pt;">the continual creation of new form, or technique born from the circumstances of the moment. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: Times-Roman; font-size: 16.0pt;">Practicing with these guidelines as our reference point, the secrets of aikido technique are gradually realized and we are transformed. This needs to be considered seriously. No amount of repetitive practice will reveal it. </span><o:p></o:p></div><!--EndFragment-->Shobu Aikidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16166194511889029948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631571892014759141.post-40952177923666792982011-06-02T12:22:00.000-07:002011-06-23T10:31:38.815-07:00Natural MovementMay 2011<br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"> It is a common idea in aikido that hara is the origin of both movement and power. This can be misleading. Hara is the center of body movement and therefore distributes the power that comes from Heaven and Earth and every other part of the body. It is a spiritual, or psychic, center and should be the origin of our intention towards movement. Nevertheless, natural movement requires that every part of the body, although integrally related, should also remain completely independent.<br />
Attempting to fuse the hara with the arms, or line it up behind the elbows and the wrists, etc., is mistaken and leads to stiff and rigid movement. Practicing in this way, there is no freedom of movement; no grace, beauty, or power. Just as the liver and heart have their own independent functions so the individual parts of the body should remain independent. As it says in the Bible, “Don’t let your right hand know what your left hand does.”</div><div class="MsoNormal"> Each of us as individuals are also part of a much larger life force, yet we also should learn to move independently. Lacking this we can hardly discover our own innate freedom, or the happiness upon which it depends. Realizing our own freedom as a part of something much greater we support the totality of humanity, even the universe itself. Unless this harmony and freedom is present in our own lives however, the idea of bringing peace to the world through aikido, or any other medium, is only an idealistic dream. </div>Shobu Aikidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16166194511889029948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631571892014759141.post-59922389167689068582011-04-28T09:13:00.000-07:002011-04-28T09:51:45.840-07:00Being Faith.April 2011<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal"> Such and such a person does such and such a thing. It is not so different from the fact that the river flows and a tree grows upwards spiraling towards the sun. We are all divine beings, created in the image of universal spirit. We are, in fact, all parts of that infinite spirit and no different from it. The problem arises from what the Japanese call <i>Tsumi. </i><span style="font-style: normal;">It has the double meaning of “sin” and “accumulation.” In other words, trying to add unto ourselves when there is nothing lacking. This is the activity that continually supports our ego. It is the way in which we hide our original nature causing us to act out of ignorance.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"> The first movement of the universal spirit is that of expansion. This is <i>A </i><span style="font-style: normal;">dimensions capacity, the essence of spirituality. In the natural movement of aiki therefore, all movements depend on expansion. What we perceive as contraction is expansion meeting itself. This expansion is the divine love and compassion of the universal spirit that continually supports all of life. When we practice properly we nurture and gradually reveal this spirit within ourselves. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"> Practicing sitting for the purpose of reaching enlightenment or some kind of higher consciousness is an ego-based activity. Practicing aikido for the sake of gaining some power, either physical or spiritual, is just the same. The improper practice of anything leads to arrogance and haughtiness; a fact that has been amply demonstrated in both the martial and the spiritual arts. </div><div class="MsoNormal"> Understanding that we are the masters of our own destiny from the very beginning, the element of true faith is revealed. This is not faith in something but rather faith in everything. It is "being faith." It is <i>I </i><span style="font-style: normal;">dimension’s capacity shining through us. Understanding our true nature to be that of the five dimensions of divine spirit, our practice becomes pure and striving ceases. <o:p></o:p></span></div>Shobu Aikidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16166194511889029948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631571892014759141.post-38276428271041495382011-03-24T13:07:00.000-07:002011-03-24T13:19:45.208-07:00Sankaku Hou; the triangle method.<div class="MsoNormal">March 2011 </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"> Movement begins with the straight lines of intention, or ki. As we have seen in the February blog, these are what creates the triangle principle of aikido. One of the most basic ways that the triangle manifests in aikido is <i>Sankaku Ho, </i><span style="font-style: normal;">the triangle method. This begins with </span><i>Irimi, </i><span style="font-style: normal;">entering directly into a point at the center of your partner’s movement. This attitude of direct confrontation is the true spirit of aikido, not evasive tactics as is often assumed. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">Although physical entering may also occur, our ki should arrive at the point of contact immediately. Having established contact at this point, we must then turn that point and, once again, exit in a straight line. This completes the triangle form. The common mistake here is trying to move the point of contact rather than turn it. This results in unreasonable effort or <i>Muri</i><span style="font-style: normal;"> </span><i>(literally, lack of principle). </i><span style="font-style: normal;">Although this is one of the most basic overall views of any aikido technique, it is the most obvious in </span><i>Irimi Nage.<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">The beginner most often moves around the point of contact. The intermediate person who has developed the power of hara will usually try to send power outward and move that point. This approach can only be effective in a collusive environment where uke takes the compliant role of pushing into nage’s hara. If one is truly manifesting aikido, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px;">there is no physical power sent out to uke at all. </span>Nage remains neutral and uke is given nothing to work with. This will be dealt with in greater detail in next months blog.<br />
<!--StartFragment--> <!--EndFragment--> <!--StartFragment--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"> </span><!--EndFragment--> </div>Shobu Aikidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16166194511889029948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631571892014759141.post-33355801810657006832011-02-10T12:28:00.000-08:002011-02-10T12:28:35.707-08:00February 2011.<!--StartFragment--> <!--StartFragment--> <br />
<div class="MsoNormal"> If Aikido, the art of peace and harmony, is to be truly realized and manifest, it is necessary that its principle is properly grasped. How can we claim to be studying the art of O-sensei when there is so much conflict even between those who are in the position of being teachers. In an attempt to remedy this situation this blog has been undertaken. I will try therefore, in subsequent months this year, to attempt an explanation of aikido principle. <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><!--EndFragment--> <div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">First of all we should understand that aikido, like all martial arts, is fundamentally linear, not circular. In a martial conflict the shortest distance between two points is the main focus. Turning the body, other than to continue to face towards your partner, should be only as much as necessary. Linear (tate) is mental-spiritual and depends on intention. Horizontal is the manifestation of physical power. The greater the linear aspect of movement, the greater the level of skill and control.<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><!--EndFragment--> <div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">The highest level of mastery is called <i>Gokui, </i><span style="font-style: normal;">which may be translated as “extreme” or “radical faith.” It may also be translated directly as “the extremity of </span><i>I </i><span style="font-style: normal;">dimensions capacity. In other words intention, or ki, is the main factor of aikido. To the degree that the power of intention is understood and developed, technique becomes effortless and egoless. There is no competition with anyone; only one’s own movement. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><i>I-Yi </i><span style="font-style: normal;">is the life will and intention. It is the motive power behind movement. It is "</span><i>The pivot on which the mind turns” </i><span style="font-style: normal;">and it is also the most difficult thing to realize. To realize this degree of faith in your practice is to go beyond dualism to the place where, as O-sensei proclaimed, “There is no enemy.” Balancing this is </span><i>A </i><span style="font-style: normal;">dimension’s ki which manifests expansion and a sense of self. When </span><i>A </i><span style="font-style: normal;">is rooted in </span><i>I, </i><span style="font-style: normal;">it gives birth to </span><i>Sangen, </i><span style="font-style: normal;">the three origins.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">The three origins come forth, therefore, as the simplest form that can be drawn with straight lines. Here, once again, we see the linear aspect of movement, and form, as the fundamental mind of aikido. When ki is sent in three independent directions at the same time the three-point power of aiki comes forth. Uke, confronted with this threefold function, is unable to find the source more less resist it. <o:p></o:p></div><!--EndFragment-->Shobu Aikidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16166194511889029948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631571892014759141.post-88515427883170249362010-12-14T16:59:00.000-08:002010-12-20T06:34:13.605-08:00Season's Greetings<div class="MsoNormal">New Years Salutations</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"> As we gradually approach the New Year, I want to extend my best wishes and gratitude to all members and friends of Shobu Aikido. It has been, and continues to be, the goal of Shobu Aikido to develop a higher and higher understanding and ability in the art created by Morihei Ueshiba. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"> It is therefore altogether fitting that we should reflect, at this special time of renewal and rejuvenation, on the goals of the founder and the degree to which we are sincerely seeking their realization through our practice. A better society will never be created without both wisdom and compassion and these should be the practical goals of our daily training.<br /><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"> As everyone is aware, we are presently in very difficult times in this country and throughout the world. It is my belief and goal that we will, through grasping the spiritual truths underlying Aikido, be able to improve this world and lead it towards a better future.<br /><br />With this goal I join hands with you all and say for your efforts. Shin Nen ni Omeditou Gozaimasu. May you have a joyful and prosperous New Year. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"> Bill Gleason</div>Shobu Aikidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16166194511889029948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631571892014759141.post-16693987482832465322010-11-14T11:52:00.001-08:002012-04-20T06:50:21.311-07:00Gleason Sensei & Seminar Schedule.Sensei Gleason’s Seminar and Event Schedule<br />
<br />
Dec 10 Basics, kyu testing, and Dojo auction.<br />
2012<br />
Jan. 1-4 New Years Holidays.<br />
7 Aikido Intensive #1<br />
13-15 River of Life Dojo; Ft. Washington, PA. (Kagami Biraki).<br />
20-22 Boston Winter Gasshuku with Don Soucy sensei.<br />
Feb. <br />
11 Aikido Intensive #2<br />
24-26 Bridge Seminar, Shindai Dojo, Orlando, Florida.<br />
Mar. 3 Weapons Seminar.<br />
10 Aikido Intensive #3.<br />
17 Basics & Kyu Testing.<br />
Apr. 6-8 Canberry, Australia. (AKI).<br />
13-15 Auckland, New Zealand. (AKI).<br />
20-22 Spring Gasshuku.<br />
27-29 Baltimore Aikikai.<br />
May 26-27 Sato Dojo/Shobu Aikido of Great Barrington.<br />
June 8- 10 Brazilia, Brazil.<br />
16-18 Bahia, Brazil.<br />
23 Basics & kyu testing.<br />
July Summer Camp in DC. TBA<br />
14 Weapons seminar.<br />
20-22 Summer Instructors Gasshuku.<br />
Aug. 16-19 Zen Mountain Monastery.<br />
Sept. 15 Basics & kyu testing.<br />
Oct. 5-7 Shobu Aikido of Maine.<br />
19-21 Oberlin College, Ohio.<br />
26-28 Las Vegas, Shidokan.<br />
Nov. 1-3 Shobu Aikido of Toledo.<br />
16-18 Aikido Eastside, Seattle, WA.<br />
Dec. 8 Basics & kyu testing.<br />
15 Weapons Seminar.<br />
<br />
All Seminars and Events are held @ Shobu Aikido of Boston if not otherwise noted.<br />
<br />
Shobu Aikido<br />
34 Allen Street<br />
Somerville MA, 02143<br />
<br />
Please visit www.shobu.org website for directions and more information.Gordonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01845371882820803622noreply@blogger.com0