Morihei Ueshiba
Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969) is the founder of Aikido, a mind-body discipline he called the ”Art of Peace,” which offers a nonviolent way to resolve conflict. Aikido means ’the way of harmonizing with the spiritual power of the universe.’ O Sensei developed Aikido from the rich history of martial traditions of Japan and refined them into a wholly new system. He believed that Aikido principles could be applied to all the challenges we face in life, providing a practical plan for personal transformation while developing a strong body and a calm mind.
A Revolutionary Martial Art
With ancient samurai roots, Aikido is a radical reform of the samurai tradition. Present day Aikido is the creation of one remarkable man known as O Sensei, or great teacher. Aikido is the physical expression of his spiritual reality.
“Aikido is Budo, a martial art. Aikido is a refinement of traditional martial techniques combined with an exalted philosophy of the spirit. It is a method of forging mind and body.
What is the exact nature of that philosophy of the spirit? It is the avoidance of the use of trickery, deception, or brute force to defeat an opponent. It is a vehicle to help us in our search for the Way of Aikido, and it enables us to develop our individual character in a mutually satisfying manner with our training partners.
In our search for the Way of Aikido we need to unify mind and body in order to harmonize ourselves with the natural order of the universe, and then respond freely to any contingency that may arise. Aikido is a training system that provides us the means to actually experience such a state.”
Best Aikido (The Fundamentals)
Kisshomaru Ueshiba
Moriteru Ueshiba
Aikido embodies the idea that when we stop resisting something we stop giving it power.
This video shows Morihei Ueshiba in action! Enjoy!