Pikes Peak Aikido

In aikido, when we visually copy or imitate technique we might obtain a good physical look.
That is the start, and from there we can refine into a proficient exterior core.
But what is also present but absent?
In other words, what are some of the unseen ‘felt’ sensations?

We may begin with grounding and centering, then sense the feel of fully connecting with harmony. We might proceed into noticing our body integration/coordination and the power of moving with a whole integrated and aligned body.
Additionally, can we notice the nature of how we ‘receive to redirect’? Namely the quality of our absorption and compression into extending? We do not collide, we do not force.
Are we spatially able to view, in our minds eye, trajectory and spirals? Can we calibrate and adapt accordingly a response with a timing and rhythm to extend and expand?
And can we sustain ‘relaxing’ into a created and opposite tension, realizing the depth of this intention, the potential combined with a breath and a calm?

These are all felt, not visually apparent.
If we choose to remain exteriorly oriented our aikido may still ‘work’.
But if we choose to go deeper, we may discover the magnitude of how essential these mindfully felt sensations are.
They help us gain a deeper understanding. Principles become exceedingly apparent, and we manifest into a felt efficiency.

Sensations are not easily described through words, we must ‘listen’ with the body, perceive, discern, and intuit.
We imagine and visualize into a reality.
To come to a full understanding, all of these components must be mindfully experienced.

Oral description, words, and cognition alone are not enough.
Information is important yes, but incomplete.
Logic and reason represent only a very thin layer on the shiny surface of the mind.
The ‘felt’ Body wisdom is only attained through the intentionally practiced experience.

G. Breeland, 6th dan

Aiki Taisō: conciencia y cuidado del cuerpo

El Aiki Taisō es más que preparación física: es un recordatorio cotidiano de que el cuerpo es nuestro primer dojo.

Cada estiramiento suave, cada respiración profunda y cada movimiento circular despiertan una conciencia distinta: la de cuidar, preservar y mantener en equilibrio la herramienta con la que habitamos el mundo.

En un tiempo donde el apuro y la tensión parecen inevitables, detenerse unos minutos para realizar estos ejercicios se convierte en un acto de resistencia inteligente: no se trata de fuerza, sino de continuidad; no de velocidad, sino de presencia.

El Aiki Taisō enseña que el cuerpo cuidado prolonga la práctica, que la práctica consciente prolonga la vida, y que ambos, cuerpo y espíritu, se sostienen en armonía cuando aprendemos a escuchar sus ritmos internos.

Gabriel Benitez©

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