by Morihei Ueshiba (Author) , Moriteru Ueshiba (Author) & 1 more


Aikido evolved from the rich martial traditions of Japan, and was developed by Morihei Ueshiba based on their profound philosophies. In this book, the author explains how Aikido is both the spirit of love and the study of that spirit. In unique and incisive language, Ueshiba discusses the arcane aspects of Aikido's aims and techniques, as well as the central importance of breathing, ki (chi), and Aikido's relationship to the spirit and body - these form the very essence of Aikido.

He goes on to consider the virtues of this revered martial art, urging the reader to link to the universe through Aikido, and ultimately to unify the divine and human. He also explains the essence of Takemusu aiki (valorous force of procreation and harmony), and Misogi (the ritual of purifying oneself).

The book includes many rare photos of the author - on both his techniques and his everyday life. Also included are his twenty-five doka (spiritual Japanese-style poems) in Japanese, English, and Romanization. The introduction was written by his grandson, Moriteru Ueshiba, the present Aikido Doshu.

***

The founder Osensei Ueshiba explains in great detail all the profound spiritual and philosophical aspects of the art. All the information in the book is from lectures that master Ueshiba did back in the past when Aikido was born. Great book for understanding the essence of this marvelous path that is Aikido. A must have for the serious practitioner.

***
This is an extraordinary book that was recommended to me by a longtime teacher of Aikido; it's highly respected by other teachers I know who have made Aikido their life's focus for many, many years. The preface, by Moriteru Ueshiba, the son of Morihei Ueshiba, explains that this is a translation of lectures that present the inner teachings of Aikido, describing the core of the Founder's spirit and interpretation of the techniques. He says he would be very happy if those who engage in heartfelt Aikido training make this book of the Founder's lessons their daily companion and study his words often. Again - this is a translation, not an interpretation, of profound thinking. John Stevens, the translator, is a Buddhist priest, teacher of Eastern philosophy, and a high ranking Aikido teacher in Japan. He says in the book, "All serious students of Aikido must study Morihei's words and make their own interpretation of his marvelous philosophy of the Art of Peace." He added only minimal explanations in brackets, so it's quite clear that those few touches are his own - for example, the kind of thing he adds in brackets is illustrated here: "Unification of mind and body will lead to the development of fundamental techniques. Techniques that are created by the nen [single-minded concentration, direct perception of the truth] are unlimited in scope. Techniques must reflect universal principles. For this we need true nen." I would really encourage you to use the Amazon feature that lets you "look inside" and see for yourself what it's like - It's a beautiful book worth keeping out and referring to often.

© 1996-2013, Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1568364466/ref=pe_512840_75853090_em_1p_0_des