Aikido for 07/08/2010

After a brief warm-up for class, Kip had us start with seated kokyu-ho exercise instead of the usual tenkan and irimi exercises. We then practiced the following techniques:

• ryotetori tenshinnage omote and ura
• ryokatatori shihonage omote
• ryotetori kokyunage with nage collapsing both hands to bring uke's elbows up and uke's center up before nage moves in and throws uke
• ushiro ryokatatori ikkyo, during this technique I was working Tom, the strong beginner, and I was pinning him effectively because he was strong enough to lift his body off the mat. Kip pointed out that I needed to straighten and bring his arm over his body, something I have pointed out to other beginners when I have teaching. I started to make excuses and I felt my ego respond and try to explain why I wasn't doing this basic pin correctly. It is good to be reminded and the basics, even when I was blinded by my own ego, especially in my own practice. Good learning moment for me.
• ushiro kubishime kotegaeshi
• ushiro ryotetori kokyunage, 4 variations. I worked with Ken on this technique and I had a lot of fun as we threw each other around these different kokyunages and trying to think up others

In all a good class and practice. I recently enjoyed reading Francis Takahashi Sensei's essay at Aikiweb titled, Winning with my Aikido. I was privileged to attend his class in January at the Aikido Bridge Friendship Seminar. His comments about why to study Aikido I especially liked:

Amongst the choices of martial art systems to study, Aikido stands apart in clearly and unashamedly proclaiming that victory over another person has never been the primary reason for its existence. The enlightened student of Aikido , when understanding and implementing the true purpose and vision of the Founder's wish for his Aikido, will always choose self betterment over defeating another person in senseless conflict. What others may think, say or believe, is irrelevant to the true student of Ueshiba Aiki, and may never define or otherwise negatively impact his or her allegiance, respect and love for Aikido.

The real purpose for studying this art, or any art form, must understandably remain the business of that student alone. This viewpoint is consistent with the Founder's statements that each person needs to discover their own Aikido, for reasons undeniably their own, and in the form they choose to build it. This right to choose is congruent with the fundamental premise that we are solely responsible for our own security, and the means to ensure it. If we elect to surrender this right to others, that too is a choice, and not to be made lightly.

True Victory is the victory we all seek over our own internal challenges, to affirm the very choices we may make, and to proclaim humble acceptance of the consequences of our choices. The greatest gain possible from Aikido research and training, is to eventually know ourselves fully, demonstrate respect for our environment, and for our peers, and to be grateful for the privilege of living and behaving in balance and accord within our environment.