Aspire Aikido London’s Goal
Aspire Aikido London Dojo is foremost dedicated and committed to follow the teachings of Morihiro Saito Sensei that he left us with Takemusu Iwama Aikido, which includes the study of Aikiken, Aikijo and Taijutsu.
Therefore my goal is clear: It is my sheer determination to continue learning the teachings of Takemusu Aikido, and also to further my research in wanting to progress further respecting all the Aiki principles that Morihiro Saito Sensei has learnt from the Founder.
For instance, focusing on the body shapes or correct body movement with good stability and hips power is paramount to get it right rather than upper body tensing, which would limit and prevent unleashing true power when techniques are linked with a partner (or multiple partners) executing any forms of attacks.
The correct positioning of feet with Hanmi & hips will not only provide the ability to harmonise with Uke but also make Tori be out of reach of any attacks. I recognise that the latter requires strong Awase to be mastered, which is why we will continue studying Bukiwasa with the Aikiken and Aikijo.
Bukiwasa has the ability to help us understand how we blend in and match our partner’s speed at any moment and to achieve fluidity movements.
I am truly aware that first, our fundamental basics must be thoroughly practiced, memorising each movements with study of Ken and Jo. This requires time and continuous efforts for each Aikidoka to keep doing.
It is also my clear intention to continue train with good spirit and humility and to work with my individual practice seeking to improve with fresh beginners eyes. It is always tempting when one has been practicing for years and years to say: “I know this technique”, but truly speaking when we, instead, adopt our beginner thinking of “I am here to learn”, I can feel I am progressing much further with this mindset.
It is my determination to seek to go further with improving my Aikido, so that I can help my students and anyone who wishes to learn this beautiful Art.
I am also very aware of recent discoveries that when one learns reaching the right skills and mindset, one will begin to see the true secrets that Aikido brings on, thanks to the study of Aikiken and Aikijo.
To me, it has become very apparent that the study of the weapons are not only to learn how we use them as weapons (although we do) but to truly see how our body movement works and above all how everything has been created to deal with one against multiple attackers like Taijutsu as well.
It is the reason why Aikiken and Aikijo cannot be taught separately and are inbedded with Taijutsu and vice versa, which forms the spirits of Takemusu Aikido.
In another word, everything that is taught with the Aikiken, Aikijo & Taijutsu has a direct link and is extremely logical.
When one reaches a high level, the Aikidoka will understand what Takemusu means! The ability to create unlimited level of techniques that will suddenly emerge in any given situations, and that the body will be leading the way and not the brain…
Morihiro Saito Sensei even said in one of his published books, that when one attains this level with Takemusu, it is a wonderful feeling that he wishes everyone to feel and understand.
I am hoping Aspire Aikido London can do this in time with existing & future students…
In the meantime, stay safe and well.