Many people, young and old alike, both women and men, are now interested in learning Aikido, not only in the country where it originated – Japan, but also anywhere else in the world, including Australia.
When talking about Aikido, it’s essential to also learn basic Aikido bokken techniques. You might get confused as to the terminologies commonly used in this martial art type especially if you’re a beginner. Hence, let’s take this step by step for easy comprehension.
What is Aikido?
Interestingly, the term is a combination of three Japanese terms – “Ai” for harmonising, “Ki” for spirit, and “Do” for way. In short, Aikido is commonly described as the way of harmonising life energy.
Nonetheless, this martial art form is more than just developing the physical capacities of the individual because the foremost aim of its proponent Ueshiba, was to focus on the spiritual and philosophical development of the student – a combination of body and mind.
Therefore it’s safe to say that Aikido is not violent or aggressive but a peaceful kind of martial art. Not only does Aikido teach students to protect themselves, but also to discover inner peace so that the person can be in harmony with the adversary for the purpose of controlling him.
The intention here is not to kill but to take advantage of the attacker’s momentum in order to subdue him. There are several techniques to do this and they’re not as easy as they seem to be. But, with determination and perseverance, anyone can master the art of basic Aikido.
How Can Aikido Be A Form Of Art?
We have to define art to be able to establish a connection. Many times we see objects, events and people that catch our attention because of their breathtaking appearance like an awesome sculpture, a colourful painting, a magnificent architecture, an exhilarating performance, etc. To many, art is an expression of creative imagination and skill that leads to the creation of something beautiful.
Then again, beauty lies in the eye of the beholder, so the popular saying goes. It means that each one has an individual definition of beauty according to how one feels or sees it with their own eyes. Thus, no one has the monopoly of the true definition of art.
Lots of people affirm that Aikido exhibitions are fascinating to watch with the carefully planned movements making use of the bokken techniques. It’s like watching superb choreography on stage. Yet, what’s truly beautiful here is learning the art of peace which is one of the most important influences Aikido can have on its students and practitioners.
No wonder that the Aikido films of Steven Seagal were blockbuster hits in the US and around the world. He was one of the staunch practitioners of Aikido that brought him fame and power where he demonstrated the harmony and power of Aikido advocates.
What is Bokken?
These are the two-handed wooden swords used in the training which beginners can use for safety reasons. Its purpose is to give students a ‘feel’ of the real razor-sharp samurai called katana. Although bokken has blunt edges, caution must be observed when handling to avoid any injury.
To learn Aikido the right way, find a legit Aikido Dojo near you.
