The techniques of Aikido are practiced with the principles of Aiki, or harmony. Aikido is the art of moving in perfect harmony with natural rhythm. Aikido begins at the center, or hara, called the “one point,” which is the center of your power and intuitiveness. When you are balanced and centered in your own feelings, your life becomes more harmonious.  

     The Aiki principles train your mind to be calm with clear perception so fear, anger, or lack of confidence does not alter your body’s natural composure and movement. Instead of becoming tense and rigid in an attack situation, you can use the natural movements of Aikido to react with agility and efficiency. You simply respond with the other person, rather than conflict against them.

   The four basic principles in Aikido are:

1. Keep One Point:  Calm and focus your mind at the “one point,” or hara, located in the lower abdomen. The hara is not a fixed anatomical point, rather a point of mental focus where there is no tension. When you “keep your one point” you have a greater capacity to perceive things as they actually are, understand what needs to be done, and accept change without losing composure.

2. Relax Completely:  Release all the stress from your body and allow yourself to relax positively. A person suffering from stress finds it very difficult to relax completely, even when sleeping. By relaxing completely and moving naturally, you are free of tension and stress and therefore a much stronger person. You have the agility to respond naturally to any situation and the flexibility to react to any circumstance.

3. Keep Weight Underside:  Let the weight of your body settle in its most natural position. When the body is calm and free of tension, so is the mind. A calm mind is like looking at a reflection of a still mountain lake. With no waves to disturb the reflected image, the lake reflects its surroundings perfectly without any distortions. Similarly, when your weight is underside, your mind is calm and reflects naturally without any distortions or exaggerations. A mind that is calm and composed processes information better and has greater insights.

4. Extend Ki:  Keep your Ki energies flowing and extending outward to the world around you. The energy of the universe is known in Japan as “Ki,” in China as “Chi,” and in India as “Prana.” This universal energy is the spirit of love and is the life force that exists in all things. A person who “extends Ki” is naturally positive and full of energy, relaxed and calm. To be alive and healthy is to have Ki energy flowing within your body and extending outward into the universe.

     Training with the principles of Aikido allows you to gain confidence and trust in yourself, which enables you to naturally connect harmoniously with others. By balancing your mind, body, and spirit, your radiance increases within and is then reflected to the world around you. When you live in harmony, you will have a clear perspective in life, be able to solve problems easily, and have the ability to recognize opportunities when they arise.