Aikido, ki and daily life

Due to the dynamic nature of Aikido, most experts say that there are no definite “styles” or “techniques” in practicing the martial art. The aikido founder reiterates this principle over and over again because the techniques of aikido, when applied without care, can damage or kill instead of diverting or immobilizing the opponent. The techniques of Aikido are of a very dynamic nature.

Although most people say that there should be no superior or inferior technique, only the student or the individual practicing it can truly tell which technique works well for him or her.

The “ki” in Aikido is basically the same thing the Chinese call “chi”, but with a slightly different emphasize, it could be said to be the underlying principle of everything in Aikido. In quantum physics, one of the foremost theories that promises to revolutionize how we see the world is the theory of strings.

Although no direct correlation has ever been claimed between string theory and that of the principles of ch’i prevalent in the East, they share the same premise in the most basic sense that it is said that there is a basic energy substance that underlie everything. The concept of ch’i or qi in Chinese and ki in Japanese, is very much relative to the type of school that teaches it. Some say that ch’i is a force separate from matter as we know it. The principle of peace and relaxation taught by Aikido presupposes the fact that the ki flows more smoothly and strongly when it is uninterrupted.

The modern martial art from Japan called Aikido is often referred to as the “art of peace” because it espouses a quick peaceful end to any form of aggression. The lessons learned are also stuff you should be able to employ in everyday life.

The reason why being relaxed and calm is taught in Aikido practice is because at the heart of its principles of spirituality and philosophy, Aikido masters and instructors believe that the ki or ch’i or energy can only truly flow in its complete potential energy when one is relaxed.

It is believed to be superior to muscle and physical strength, which sometimes hinders the ki. In fact, in Aikido, instead of muscle and strength building, flexibility and endurance is part of the Aikido martial art training.