Product Description

For the first time in English, The Essence of Aikido presents the profound philosophy of Aikido in Morihei's own words, disclosing many of the arcane secrets of Aikido's aims and methods. Considered by many to be the greatest martial artist and spiritual teacher of the twentieth century, Morihei provides a wealth of clues to the often puzzling nature of the inseparable link between the physical and spiritual aspects of Aikido, revealing the heart of the peaceful warrior's art.

Elegantly translated and compiled by John Stevens, translator of Morihei's Budo, the first half of The Essence of Aikido presents the most comprehensive collection of the writings of Morihei Ueshiba ever published. Key concepts in Aikido philosophy, such as kototama (language of the spirit) and misogi (purification of body and mind) are discussed at length, profusely illustrated with Morihei's mystical diagrams, spiritual poems, and fascinating calligraphy.

For Morihei, techniques were the means to express the spiritual principles of Aikido, and in the second half of The Essence of Aikido, John Stevens focuses on Morihei's techniques. Over two hundred hitherto unpublished photos of Morihei in action from his earliest days as a teacher of the martial arts to his last years as a master of Aikido complete this detailed survey of the true nature of Aikido.

A major contribution to a field that until recently has remained elusive to Western readers, The Essence of Aikido is an inspiring study of the spiritual and physical elements in Aikido, providing an important resource for martial arts practitioners and philosophy students alike.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #22638 in Books
• Published on: 1999-04-01
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 200 pages

Aiki News
"... indispensable book for the serious aikidoka ... the best technical photos of the founder that I have ever seen...."

Synopsis
This collection of writings by the founder of aikido, Morihei Ueshiba, illuminates the philosophical basis of the traditional martial arts. It contains photographs of Ueshiba in action from his early youth to his final years at the height of his fame. Chapters include Ueshiba's calligraphy and a full transcription of epigrams and poems in English, romanized and Japanese orthography.

From the Publisher
[The opening pages of Chapter 5.]

The Art of Aikido

Techniques are the vehicles used to express the spiritual principles of Aikido. They are not set forms since "change and adaptability are the essence of Aikido." Morihei did not say much about the technical aspects of Aikido training, for he believed, "If your heart is true your techniques will be correct."

The most thorough technical presentation of Morihei's techniques is found in his book Budo. In addition to further hints contained in the Budo, Morihei also emphasized the following basic points to his students regarding the execution of Aikido techniques:

"Even though our Path is completely different from warrior arts of the past, it is not necessary to abandon the old ways totally. Absorb venerable traditions in Aikido by clothing them with fresh garments, and build on the classic styles to create better forms.

"Our techniques employ four qualities that reflect the nature of our world. Depending on the circumstance, you should be: hard as a diamond, flexible as a willow, smooth-flowing like water, or as empty as space.

"The body should be triangular, the mind circular. The triangle represents the generation of energy and is the most stable physical posture. The circle symbolizes serenity and perfection, the source of unlimited techniques. The square stands for solidity, the basis of applied control.

"A good stance and posture reflect a proper state of mind. The key to good technique is to keep your hands, feet, and hips straight and centered. If you are centered, you can move freely. The physical center is your belly; if your mind is set there as well, you are assured of victory in any endeavor.

"Do not stare into the eyes of your opponent: he may mesmerize you. Do not fix your gaze on his sword: he may intimidate you. Do not focus on your opponent at all: he may absorb your energy. The essence of technique is to bring your opponent completely into your sphere. Then you can stand just where you !ike, in a safe and unassailable position.

"When an opponent comes forward, move in and greet him; if he wants to pull back, send him on his way."

As indicated in Budo, the techniques of Aikido are structured into six pillars:

Shiho-nage (four-directions throws)
Irimi-nage (entering throws)
Kaiten (open-and-turn movements)
Kokyu-ho (breath-power techniques)
Osae-waza (pinning techniques)
Ushiro-waza (rear techniques).

Customer Reviews

A must for all true Aikido followers.
This book has some great photos and explains some of the teachings of Morihei Ueshiba in a very clear way. It is not as instructive as some of the better books on Aikido, but it is a must for all true Aikido followers.

A great book for understanding Aikido.
I found this book very interesting as an introduction into Morihei Ueshiba's philosophies and the nature of Aikido. It has some great photos, but is more of an introduction than an Aikido tutorial.