Aikido derives mainly from the martial art of Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu, but began to diverge from it in the late 1920s, partly due to Ueshiba's involvement with the Ōmoto-kyō religion. Ueshiba's early students' documents bear the term aiki-jūjutsu. Many of Ueshiba's senior students have different approaches to aikido, depending on when they studied with him. Today aikido is found all over the world in a number of styles, with broad ranges of interpretation and emphasis. However, they all share techniques learned from Ueshiba and most have concern for the well-being of the attacker. This attitude has been the at core of criticisms of aikido and related arts.
Body
As a non-competitive and harmonious art, Aikido students can learn a non-aggressive and effective self-defense techniques that aim to end conflict without violence or unnecessary force.
Aikido students will learn how to defend themselves by blending rather than resisting, redirecting attacks and unbalancing their opponent whilst remaining in control of the situation.
Techniques have a focus on the student remaining centered and stable using minimal strength.
Mind
The mind and body aspects in aikido is important, along with the development of “Ki”.
Ki is commonly defined as “breath” energy or “spirit”. In Asian martial arts, it refers to a subtle form of vital energy which will be developed with Aikido training.
This energy, directed by the mind and breath, enables the body to carry out techniques with a sense of connection, relaxation and inner calmness.
This helps the student to remain centered, balanced and focused on our Aikido practice and in our everyday lives.
Aikido, in addition to self-defense and fitness, can develop the students self confidence and self discipline, mind-body co-ordination, social skills and morals.
