Aikido is a defensive martial art that teaches practitioners to harmonize with an attacker’s energy, redirecting it away from the practitioner and into the ground. Practitioners of Aikido use techniques such as joint locks, throws, and pins to unbalance an attacker and control them without causing injury. The result is a powerful system of self-defense that is both effective and safe for both the practitioner and the attacker. It has no competition or tournaments; instead, practitioners of Aikido focus on the physical, mental, and spiritual development of their practice.
Aikido is based on the principles of harmony, respect, and non-aggression. It is a martial art that emphasizes self-improvement and spiritual growth through physical and mental discipline. It is a martial way that emphasizes the development of a peaceful, harmonious spirit. Aikido is practiced around the world and is an excellent way to develop physical and mental strength, as well as spirit.
"The secret of Aikido is to harmonize with the movement of the universe and bring ourselves into accord with the universe itself." O-Sensei maintained that Budo is a work of love, a path to overcome discord in ourselves and bring peace to the world, "to make the heart of the universe one's own heart." O-Sensei taught that true awareness is not grasped by intellect alone.