 Benefits
of Aikido
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Fitness,
suppleness, good posture and co-ordination are all developed through
practice. Aikido teaches the efficient use of the body to maximise its
power, which is why many people who have practised over a period of
years are able to continue into old age.
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Self confidence grows as
co-ordination and balance improve and we reconnect to being present in
our bodies and to occupying our personal space.
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Aikido teaches us to
identify our boundaries and gives us the skills to defend them.
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As we gain confidence in
our abilities, we can move away from adrenaline fuelled 'flight or
fight’ reactions and instead choose to respond in a manner appropriate
to the situation. The same approach can be extended to non-physical
conflicts and confrontations.
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Modern living tends to make
us wary of physical contact. Aikido teaches us to work in close contact
with another body in scenarios where physical contact is at its most
threatening. The contact between partners in an Aikido technique is
similar to the contact in many forms of bodywork - firm enough to guide
but without imposing or forcing.
Aikido is a dynamic, expansive,
moving art. It gives us the opportunity
to express ourselves freely through movement. The absence of tension
and resistance helps to release the ingrained constraints on our bodies
and our movement, that give rise to frustrations, energy blockages and
illnesses. It teaches us to face our fears of confrontation and to
learn a new way of resolving conflict. Through body movement and the
development of Ki, Aikido aims to harmonise an individual’s body, mind
and spirit, whilst they are learning to move in harmony with another
human being both in performing and receiving the techniques.
Aikido develops physical relaxation, mental calmness and unfocussed
awareness in order to be able to respond freely to what occurs. Regular
training helps practitioners to become centred and grounded and thereby
better able to deal with the stresses of daily life.
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