I SHIN JUKU Traditional School of Aikido Tatenhill Village Hall Main Street Tatenhill Burton on Trent DE13 9SD

What is Aikido?

Aikido is a traditional, non-competitive Japanese martial art, which was developed early in the 20th century by Morihei Ueshiba. In Japanese, Aikido means “ the way of harmony with the force and principle of nature.” Aikido is derived from Japanese traditional budo (way of martial arts), yet goes beyond the realm of budo; it is recognised as a path where the martial art is used as a way of spiritual growth.
Aikido’s founder, Morihei Ueshiba, studied many traditional Japanese martial arts including jujitsu and swordsmanship in his development of Aikido and kept the art secret, teaching only a few privileged Japanese students up until as recently as 1948.
The central aim of Aikido is self- realisation through discipline. With practice, harmony of body and mind develops.

Aikido and Health

Correct performance of the movements improves the general condition of the body, including the bony structures and joints, especially those of the spinal column. It also stimulates the circulation to every part of the body in particular the joints and some of the inner muscles, which are generally under-used. A heightened awareness of body and mind can also be gained through improved integration and sensitivity of the nervous system. Moreover, the fitness and positive mental attitude, which develops, has a favourable effect on one’s overall welfare.