The Hidden Teachings Of Aikido

There is a myth that circulates in the Aikido community that suggests that some Aikido teachers have aimed to hide the true or real teachings from their students. The idea being that a teacher may wish to maintain their position above their students. Or perhaps they don’t want to accidentally teach a competing teacher some … Continue reading The Hidden Teachings Of Aikido

Mental Health Benefits Of Aikido

“since I’ve been practising Aikido I feel calmer and more relaxed, I don’t know why” It’s not unusual for me to hear these kind of comments from students. No definite claims can be made about the benefits of practising Aikido specifically, but in general it is well known that physical activity is essential for good … Continue reading Mental Health Benefits Of Aikido

Developing Courage Through Aikido

One reason that many people are drawn to the martial arts is that they would like to develop more courage.This is not everyone's reason, but it is important for some people.Many people experience an irrational level of fear about their own personal safety.  For some people this fear is so strong it becomes pathological and … Continue reading Developing Courage Through Aikido

Report From Visit To Aikido Association Of Atlanta

I have not visited many Aikido clubs outside of our organisation in Glasgow. That is not from a lack of interest or desire to, but it often has been difficult to arrange such events while travelling. I was delighted to recently be invited to the Aikido Assoication Of Atlanta to attend one of their evening … Continue reading Report From Visit To Aikido Association Of Atlanta

What Is “Ki Training”?

In the style of Aikido we practise at Palace Of Art (and in the other clubs in our organisation) Ki development plays a big role. You might ask what exacty are the benefits of Ki development training?I found this article about this topic at https://shinshintoitsuaikido.org.uk/ki-development/.  I thought I would share it with you."Ki development training helps us to … Continue reading What Is “Ki Training”?

Bad Boys Of Aikido

Some Aikido teachers developed the reputation of being cruel and vicious. This seems so unusual as the general idea many people have of Aikido is of an art of peace. Shouldn’t it create a peaceful temperament in the practitioners? Some people translate O Sensei’s philosophy as the true aim of budo (the Japanese term for … Continue reading Bad Boys Of Aikido