"... you check your partner, no desire to domain. It is a state of perpetual victory.
There is no possibility of failure. In this sense there is no clash
in Aikido, and even if you had an opponent,
he would only be a companion to control ...."
A: When I was a college student my philosophy professor showed us a picture of a famous philosopher, and now I am struck by the similarity with you
0 - SENSEI: Well maybe it is entered in the field of philosophy, as my spiritual side is much more emphasized than the physical.
B: It is said that the 'Aikido is very different from Judo and Karate.
0 - SENSEI: I think we can say that it is the ultimate martial art. This is because it is based on a universal truth. Quest 'universe is composed of many different parts that are nevertheless held together as one big family, this is a representation of peace at the highest level. Embracing the point of view of 'universe,' Aikido is not merely a 'martial art' s love. Can not be an 'art of violence. It thus could be defined as a 'further manifestation of the Creator. L 'Aikido, it is immense. the training plans are the Earth and Heaven. The mental attitudes of practitioners must be full of peace and nonviolence. This is the right mindset of Japanese martial arts, violence is generated by a disturbed mind. Our duty is to transform the world into an earthly paradise. Activities such as the war are misplaced.
A: This is fundamentally different from traditional schools.
0 - SENSEI: certainly is very different. If we look behind us we realize to what has abused the martial arts. During the Warring States Period, for example, the rich lords used the martial arts for personal purposes and to satisfy their interests. This I think is totally appropriate. I used to think that martial arts were meant to defeat the enemy soldiers in war, why, when the war ended, I was very puzzled. This led me to seek, within seven years, the true spirit of sweat, and that was when it occurred to me to build a paradise on earth. The reason for this solution is that the heavens and the earth were relatively stable in their evolution, as humans seem to be in a perpetual state of confusionale.Prima we must combat this situation. The realization of this mission is a step forward for the 'whole of humanity. When I came to this conclusion, I realized that the true nature of ' Aikido is the absolute peace and harmony. L 'Aikido was created in accordance with the principles of the universe, so it's a audo of absolute victory.
B: Would you tell us about the principles of 'Aikido? People think it's something mystical like ninjutsu, saying that you are able to lift heavy objects with a kind of mysterious power.
0 - SENSEI: On the surface it might seem something mystical, but it is not. In Aikido we only use the strength of our opponent, so that more force he uses is more easy for us.
B: In this sense there is also Aiki in judo, where you have to synchronize themselves with the rhythm of the partner. If he pulls, you push and if he pushes you bring. Movendoti according to this principle do the lose his balance and then apply your technique.
O-SENSEI: In Aikido there is absolutely first attack. Attach it means to have already been defeated in spirit. In accordance with the principle of non-resistance, are not opposed to 'striker. So you could say that there is no opponent in Aikido. Victory for us is "Masagatzu Agatzu", that is when you win over all, according to the divine mission, then you have the absolute strength.
B: You are referring to the case "sen no sen", the initiative on attachment?
O-Sensei: Absolutely no. If I wanted to try to express it in words I should say that you check your partner, no desire to dominate. It is a state of perpetual victory. There is no chance of defeat. In this sense there is no clash in Aikido, and even if you had an opponent, he would only be a companion to control.
B: How many techniques exist in Aikido?
0 - SENSEI: There are about 3000 basic techniques, and each of them has 16 variations, so there are many thousands. Depending on the situation yourself you can create new ones.
A: When he started studying martial arts?
0 - SENSEI: A 14 -15 years or so. I have learned, in order, the following schools of Ju Jutsu: Tenshinyo, Kito, Yagyu, Aioi, and Shinkage. But anyway I was not happy and tried again the true budo. Sojutsu and practiced Kendo. But even these, concentrate on fighting one on one, they failed to satisfy me. So I've combed the country, coaches and looking the way, but in vain.
A: You could say that was the period of ascetic training of the warrior?
0 - SENSEI: Yes, the search for true Budo. When I used to go to other schools, their teachers never challenged. Who among the pilgrim dojo is too tired to show his true abilities. So I paid their regular fees and trying to learn something. Finally, if I was I to be higher, by taking back my money and went home.
B: And when the Aikido began to take shape?
0 - SENSEI: As I said before, I traveled to many places looking for true Budo. Then about 30 years, I came to Hokkaido. On that occasion, while I was in Kitami Province, I met some SOKAKU TAKEDA, master of the Aizu clan. He taught the Daito-ryu Jujitsu. During the months that I studied with him I had a sort of inspiration. Later I invited him to my house, and together with another 15 or 16 people became a student of the 'essence of budo.
B: So he found studying aikido jujitsu with Takeda?
O-SENSEI: No. It would be more accurate to say that the teacher opened my eyes to Takeda Budo.
A: So in what particular circumstances was born the 'Aikido?
O-SENSEI: this happened. My father became very ill in 1918. Takeda I was forced to leave and return home. along the way I heard that if I prayed in Ayabe, near Kyoto, every wish I would have been fulfilled. So I went there and met Onisaburo Deguchi. But when I got home, I learned that my father was dead anyway. Deguchi had met only once, I decided to return to Ayabe with all my family and stayed there until a11925, all 'age of 40 years. One day, after battling a master of kendo, I was refreshing in the garden. Suddenly a shower of golden light fell from the sky and enveloped me. All of a sudden my body grew enormously, reaching the borders of 'the whole universe. Enlightened by that 'experience, I realized that we should not focus on victory: the heart of Budo is love. This is the 'Aikido.
B: So in Budo is not essential to be strong. Since ancient times taught the commonality between Zen and the sword. Similarly, the essence of Budo can not be understood without first clearing his mind. In this state, nothing is right that wrong, is more valuable ..
O-Sensei: As I said before, the 'essence of Budo is the path of Masagatzu Agatzu.
B: I heard a story that saw her involved in a fight with 150 workers ..
O-SENSEI: it? For what I remember the teacher Deguchi came to Mongolia in '24 to realize his dream of creating a large Asian community in accordance with national policy. it took him to his request until I was called to arms. Together through Mongolia and Manchuria. During the trip we encountered a group of bandits in the mountains, which began shooting at their fire pesantemente.io said smiling and then I threw myself between them and attacking them with pride scattering.
A: He stood for a long time in Manchuria?
O-SENSEI: Before the 'incident in Manchuria have been very spesso.Ero supervisor for the martial arts for the organization as the Shimbuden Kenkoku University in Mongolia. For this reason I was welcome there.
B: Hino Ashisei wrote a story called "Oja no Za" which tells the story of Tenryu Saburo, a hero in the world of sumo, and his encounter with a master of Aikido and the rediscovery of its true spirit. By chance this story is concerned?
O-SENSEI: Yes
B: What kind of relationship he had with Tenryu?
O-Sensei: He stayed at my house for about three months.
B: This happened in Manchuria?
O-SENSEI: Yes we met at the tournament in honor del10 anniversary of the government in Manchuria. There was a huge man at the party and a lot of people around him who made comments on his incredible strength. I asked who he was and then I was told that it was Tenryu, famous Sumo wrestler. I introduced myself to him and eventually we decided to compare our skills against each other. So I sat down and said to Tenryu: "Push me, trying to tip over backwards. Push thicker as you can, do not hold your strength . Strong secrets of Aikido, I knew that could move an inch. However Tenryu seemed surprised at this and became a student of Aikido. It was a good man.
A: Sensei, she also had rappolti with the navy?
O-SENSEI: Yes, for a long time. Begun in 1928, my collaboration with the Naval Academy as a part-time teacher, lasted for about 10 years.
B: So also taught to the soldiers during that period!
O-SENSEI: to eh, more than one occasion I have taught the military began with the Naval Academy, but in '33 I held classes for the Military School in 1942 Toyama.Poi Aikido also taught at the school police. On another occasion, at the invitation of General Maeda, I gave a demonstration for the Army.
A: By teaching the soldiers will certainly have been involved in some fun episode.
O-SENSEI: Yes, once I was even the victim of an ambush.
B: Maybe because they considered it a teacher too severe?
O-SENSEI: No, not for what. I think they wanted to prove my abilities. It was the time when
taught 'Academy of Polizia.una evening as I walked into the training room, I felt that something was wrong. Something moved above me. All 'Suddenly, from all directions, jumped out of some bushes and hollows, a group of soldiers surrounded me. Then began to attack me with swords and wooden sticks. Because they are accustomed to this sort of thing, do not bother me much. As soon as they tried to hit me, I moved just a fluke and the 'other, and meanwhile I realized that they were losing confidence in themselves. Eventually they fell exhausted. Life is not without surprises. L 'other day, after a conference of a type recognized my face and I ran up and saluted. After talking for a while, I realized that this was one of the men who attacked me that day many years ago. I sheepishly said: "I am very sorry for that incident. That day we were talking about the real effectiveness of our teaching Aikido. A group of us from hotheads decided to test him. you hide 30 or so. And we were totally shocked that thirty men trained for war could not have been nothing compared to your strength. "
C: There were also episodes about the school in Toyama?
O-SENSEI: Showdown? Once, I think before the 'incident at the police academy. A group of captains, instructors at the school of Toyama, invited me to try my strength against them. They all boasted of their ability with phrases like "I can Total weight lifting "or" I can break tiles tot diameter, so I told them "I do not have this kind of force, but I can kill people just like you with the little finger. But since I'm sorry to hurt you, do so. "Lying on my right arm and leaned over the index a desk, so I invited them to get on my arm, lying down on his stomach. One after another in disbelief, began to pile on my arm. When they had got all six, I asked the man next to me a glass of water. While I was drinking with his left hand, the group of men on my right arm was silent amazement.
0 - SENSEI: Well maybe it is entered in the field of philosophy, as my spiritual side is much more emphasized than the physical.
B: It is said that the 'Aikido is very different from Judo and Karate.
0 - SENSEI: I think we can say that it is the ultimate martial art. This is because it is based on a universal truth. Quest 'universe is composed of many different parts that are nevertheless held together as one big family, this is a representation of peace at the highest level. Embracing the point of view of 'universe,' Aikido is not merely a 'martial art' s love. Can not be an 'art of violence. It thus could be defined as a 'further manifestation of the Creator. L 'Aikido, it is immense. the training plans are the Earth and Heaven. The mental attitudes of practitioners must be full of peace and nonviolence. This is the right mindset of Japanese martial arts, violence is generated by a disturbed mind. Our duty is to transform the world into an earthly paradise. Activities such as the war are misplaced.
A: This is fundamentally different from traditional schools.
0 - SENSEI: certainly is very different. If we look behind us we realize to what has abused the martial arts. During the Warring States Period, for example, the rich lords used the martial arts for personal purposes and to satisfy their interests. This I think is totally appropriate. I used to think that martial arts were meant to defeat the enemy soldiers in war, why, when the war ended, I was very puzzled. This led me to seek, within seven years, the true spirit of sweat, and that was when it occurred to me to build a paradise on earth. The reason for this solution is that the heavens and the earth were relatively stable in their evolution, as humans seem to be in a perpetual state of confusionale.Prima we must combat this situation. The realization of this mission is a step forward for the 'whole of humanity. When I came to this conclusion, I realized that the true nature of ' Aikido is the absolute peace and harmony. L 'Aikido was created in accordance with the principles of the universe, so it's a audo of absolute victory.
B: Would you tell us about the principles of 'Aikido? People think it's something mystical like ninjutsu, saying that you are able to lift heavy objects with a kind of mysterious power.
0 - SENSEI: On the surface it might seem something mystical, but it is not. In Aikido we only use the strength of our opponent, so that more force he uses is more easy for us.
B: In this sense there is also Aiki in judo, where you have to synchronize themselves with the rhythm of the partner. If he pulls, you push and if he pushes you bring. Movendoti according to this principle do the lose his balance and then apply your technique.
O-SENSEI: In Aikido there is absolutely first attack. Attach it means to have already been defeated in spirit. In accordance with the principle of non-resistance, are not opposed to 'striker. So you could say that there is no opponent in Aikido. Victory for us is "Masagatzu Agatzu", that is when you win over all, according to the divine mission, then you have the absolute strength.
B: You are referring to the case "sen no sen", the initiative on attachment?
O-Sensei: Absolutely no. If I wanted to try to express it in words I should say that you check your partner, no desire to dominate. It is a state of perpetual victory. There is no chance of defeat. In this sense there is no clash in Aikido, and even if you had an opponent, he would only be a companion to control.
B: How many techniques exist in Aikido?
0 - SENSEI: There are about 3000 basic techniques, and each of them has 16 variations, so there are many thousands. Depending on the situation yourself you can create new ones.
A: When he started studying martial arts?
0 - SENSEI: A 14 -15 years or so. I have learned, in order, the following schools of Ju Jutsu: Tenshinyo, Kito, Yagyu, Aioi, and Shinkage. But anyway I was not happy and tried again the true budo. Sojutsu and practiced Kendo. But even these, concentrate on fighting one on one, they failed to satisfy me. So I've combed the country, coaches and looking the way, but in vain.
A: You could say that was the period of ascetic training of the warrior?
0 - SENSEI: Yes, the search for true Budo. When I used to go to other schools, their teachers never challenged. Who among the pilgrim dojo is too tired to show his true abilities. So I paid their regular fees and trying to learn something. Finally, if I was I to be higher, by taking back my money and went home.
B: And when the Aikido began to take shape?
0 - SENSEI: As I said before, I traveled to many places looking for true Budo. Then about 30 years, I came to Hokkaido. On that occasion, while I was in Kitami Province, I met some SOKAKU TAKEDA, master of the Aizu clan. He taught the Daito-ryu Jujitsu. During the months that I studied with him I had a sort of inspiration. Later I invited him to my house, and together with another 15 or 16 people became a student of the 'essence of budo.
B: So he found studying aikido jujitsu with Takeda?
O-SENSEI: No. It would be more accurate to say that the teacher opened my eyes to Takeda Budo.
A: So in what particular circumstances was born the 'Aikido?
O-SENSEI: this happened. My father became very ill in 1918. Takeda I was forced to leave and return home. along the way I heard that if I prayed in Ayabe, near Kyoto, every wish I would have been fulfilled. So I went there and met Onisaburo Deguchi. But when I got home, I learned that my father was dead anyway. Deguchi had met only once, I decided to return to Ayabe with all my family and stayed there until a11925, all 'age of 40 years. One day, after battling a master of kendo, I was refreshing in the garden. Suddenly a shower of golden light fell from the sky and enveloped me. All of a sudden my body grew enormously, reaching the borders of 'the whole universe. Enlightened by that 'experience, I realized that we should not focus on victory: the heart of Budo is love. This is the 'Aikido.
B: So in Budo is not essential to be strong. Since ancient times taught the commonality between Zen and the sword. Similarly, the essence of Budo can not be understood without first clearing his mind. In this state, nothing is right that wrong, is more valuable ..
O-Sensei: As I said before, the 'essence of Budo is the path of Masagatzu Agatzu.
B: I heard a story that saw her involved in a fight with 150 workers ..
O-SENSEI: it? For what I remember the teacher Deguchi came to Mongolia in '24 to realize his dream of creating a large Asian community in accordance with national policy. it took him to his request until I was called to arms. Together through Mongolia and Manchuria. During the trip we encountered a group of bandits in the mountains, which began shooting at their fire pesantemente.io said smiling and then I threw myself between them and attacking them with pride scattering.
A: He stood for a long time in Manchuria?
O-SENSEI: Before the 'incident in Manchuria have been very spesso.Ero supervisor for the martial arts for the organization as the Shimbuden Kenkoku University in Mongolia. For this reason I was welcome there.
B: Hino Ashisei wrote a story called "Oja no Za" which tells the story of Tenryu Saburo, a hero in the world of sumo, and his encounter with a master of Aikido and the rediscovery of its true spirit. By chance this story is concerned?
O-SENSEI: Yes
B: What kind of relationship he had with Tenryu?
O-Sensei: He stayed at my house for about three months.
B: This happened in Manchuria?
O-SENSEI: Yes we met at the tournament in honor del10 anniversary of the government in Manchuria. There was a huge man at the party and a lot of people around him who made comments on his incredible strength. I asked who he was and then I was told that it was Tenryu, famous Sumo wrestler. I introduced myself to him and eventually we decided to compare our skills against each other. So I sat down and said to Tenryu: "Push me, trying to tip over backwards. Push thicker as you can, do not hold your strength . Strong secrets of Aikido, I knew that could move an inch. However Tenryu seemed surprised at this and became a student of Aikido. It was a good man.
A: Sensei, she also had rappolti with the navy?
O-SENSEI: Yes, for a long time. Begun in 1928, my collaboration with the Naval Academy as a part-time teacher, lasted for about 10 years.
B: So also taught to the soldiers during that period!
O-SENSEI: to eh, more than one occasion I have taught the military began with the Naval Academy, but in '33 I held classes for the Military School in 1942 Toyama.Poi Aikido also taught at the school police. On another occasion, at the invitation of General Maeda, I gave a demonstration for the Army.
A: By teaching the soldiers will certainly have been involved in some fun episode.
O-SENSEI: Yes, once I was even the victim of an ambush.
B: Maybe because they considered it a teacher too severe?
O-SENSEI: No, not for what. I think they wanted to prove my abilities. It was the time when
taught 'Academy of Polizia.una evening as I walked into the training room, I felt that something was wrong. Something moved above me. All 'Suddenly, from all directions, jumped out of some bushes and hollows, a group of soldiers surrounded me. Then began to attack me with swords and wooden sticks. Because they are accustomed to this sort of thing, do not bother me much. As soon as they tried to hit me, I moved just a fluke and the 'other, and meanwhile I realized that they were losing confidence in themselves. Eventually they fell exhausted. Life is not without surprises. L 'other day, after a conference of a type recognized my face and I ran up and saluted. After talking for a while, I realized that this was one of the men who attacked me that day many years ago. I sheepishly said: "I am very sorry for that incident. That day we were talking about the real effectiveness of our teaching Aikido. A group of us from hotheads decided to test him. you hide 30 or so. And we were totally shocked that thirty men trained for war could not have been nothing compared to your strength. "C: There were also episodes about the school in Toyama?
O-SENSEI: Showdown? Once, I think before the 'incident at the police academy. A group of captains, instructors at the school of Toyama, invited me to try my strength against them. They all boasted of their ability with phrases like "I can Total weight lifting "or" I can break tiles tot diameter, so I told them "I do not have this kind of force, but I can kill people just like you with the little finger. But since I'm sorry to hurt you, do so. "Lying on my right arm and leaned over the index a desk, so I invited them to get on my arm, lying down on his stomach. One after another in disbelief, began to pile on my arm. When they had got all six, I asked the man next to me a glass of water. While I was drinking with his left hand, the group of men on my right arm was silent amazement.
B: Aside from the 'Aikido, you must have a superhuman strength!
O-SENSEI: Not really.
Kisshomaru: Surely he is very strong, but we should talk about the power of Ki, rather than physical force. Some time ago, building a new dojo, we saw seven or eight workers who tried in vain to uproot a tree. My father looked at them for a while, 'and then asked them to move in order to prove himself. He pulled up in an instant, with one hand and threw it away. It would be inconceivable to do such things by sheer physical strength. A 'last time there was an accident on a Mihamahiro.
B: Are you talking about the same Mihamahiro National Association of Sumo?
O-SENSEI: Yes When I was in Shingu, Wakayama Prefecture, Mihamahiro was getting good results in the ranking of sumotori. He had incredible strength, and managed to raise three trunks, weighing several tons. When I learned that Mihamahiro was in town, I invited him to visit me. While we were chatting, he said, "Master, I have heard of you who have an unimaginable force. Why not compare our capacity?" Okay, "I replied," but I will use only my index finger. "We started. Mihamahiro tried to lift me and despite being able to move huge masses, he could not move me an inch. After a bit, 'retorted his own strength against him, and he found himself flying through the air. He realized that I had only touched with his forefinger, and with the index I kept immobilized. We looked like an adult playing with a child. Seeing him in disbelief, I asked him to try again. Sitting on the floor, I offered him pushing me to try to overthrow the head, but he could not. Then I lifted my legs off the ground, remaining in the balance, but even that could move me. Distraught, he began to study the 'Aikido.
A: When a person says to land with a finger, she presses a vital point?
O-SENSEI: Drawing a circle around them. Their strength is set to 'internal of this circle. No matter how strong a man can not extend its power further this circle. Becomes suddenly weak. So you can knock him down with a finger while in this phase. You can because he is weak.
A: His wife is from Wakayama prefecture?
O-SENSEI: Yes, she comes from the Takeda family of Wakayama.
A: The Takeda family is closely associated with martial arts.
O-SENSEI: Without a doubt. My family has served the 'Emperor for many generations. l my ancestors, in fact, gave up their property and their possessions to devote himself entirely the Imperial Family ..
B: As her teacher, has been around for many years in the period when he was young, that his wife should not have been a very simple life.
O-SENSEI: In fact, even now I can spend much time at home, because of the ongoing commitments.
Kisshomaru: My father has always been particularly interested in the ascetic practice of martial arts. In addition, an 'the other characteristic is its total disregard for money. On one occasion there was an incident of this kind. When my father left for Tokyo in 1926, he went alone and then in 1927, we reached the rest of us by Tanabe. With the help of the son of General Yamamoto, mr. Kiyoshi, renting a house in Sarumachi. At that 'time my father owned a large chunk of land around Tanabe, which included areas of cultivable and uncultivable. In any case, used it very little and therefore needed a loan. But despite this, he refused to sell alcunché.ma Not only that when his students brought him 's offer monthly, he said he did not need this kind of thing that would never accept money directly, and donassero who preferred them to the gods, so that the day when he needed money, he prayed to the gods, so they receive the necessary. He never accepted money to teach Budo. The dojo at that time was the billiard room of the Shimazu family, and here gathered to enjoy many military officers and aristocratic people. At that time we called our art Ueshiba Juku Aikijitsu.
B: At what age did you start practicing?
Kisshomaru: You can start at the age of 7, but we must wait the 15 to practice seriously. Physically speaking, the body begins to strengthen and to fortify their bones at that 'age. Since, moreover, contains many spiritual aspects of Aikido, you have to wait for that age have its own world view, and then the nature of Budo. Therefore, ultimately, I'd say 15 to 16 years is a good age to start practicing.
O-SENSEI: Not really.
Kisshomaru: Surely he is very strong, but we should talk about the power of Ki, rather than physical force. Some time ago, building a new dojo, we saw seven or eight workers who tried in vain to uproot a tree. My father looked at them for a while, 'and then asked them to move in order to prove himself. He pulled up in an instant, with one hand and threw it away. It would be inconceivable to do such things by sheer physical strength. A 'last time there was an accident on a Mihamahiro.
B: Are you talking about the same Mihamahiro National Association of Sumo?
O-SENSEI: Yes When I was in Shingu, Wakayama Prefecture, Mihamahiro was getting good results in the ranking of sumotori. He had incredible strength, and managed to raise three trunks, weighing several tons. When I learned that Mihamahiro was in town, I invited him to visit me. While we were chatting, he said, "Master, I have heard of you who have an unimaginable force. Why not compare our capacity?" Okay, "I replied," but I will use only my index finger. "We started. Mihamahiro tried to lift me and despite being able to move huge masses, he could not move me an inch. After a bit, 'retorted his own strength against him, and he found himself flying through the air. He realized that I had only touched with his forefinger, and with the index I kept immobilized. We looked like an adult playing with a child. Seeing him in disbelief, I asked him to try again. Sitting on the floor, I offered him pushing me to try to overthrow the head, but he could not. Then I lifted my legs off the ground, remaining in the balance, but even that could move me. Distraught, he began to study the 'Aikido.
A: When a person says to land with a finger, she presses a vital point?
O-SENSEI: Drawing a circle around them. Their strength is set to 'internal of this circle. No matter how strong a man can not extend its power further this circle. Becomes suddenly weak. So you can knock him down with a finger while in this phase. You can because he is weak.
A: His wife is from Wakayama prefecture?
O-SENSEI: Yes, she comes from the Takeda family of Wakayama.
A: The Takeda family is closely associated with martial arts.
O-SENSEI: Without a doubt. My family has served the 'Emperor for many generations. l my ancestors, in fact, gave up their property and their possessions to devote himself entirely the Imperial Family ..
B: As her teacher, has been around for many years in the period when he was young, that his wife should not have been a very simple life.
O-SENSEI: In fact, even now I can spend much time at home, because of the ongoing commitments.
Kisshomaru: My father has always been particularly interested in the ascetic practice of martial arts. In addition, an 'the other characteristic is its total disregard for money. On one occasion there was an incident of this kind. When my father left for Tokyo in 1926, he went alone and then in 1927, we reached the rest of us by Tanabe. With the help of the son of General Yamamoto, mr. Kiyoshi, renting a house in Sarumachi. At that 'time my father owned a large chunk of land around Tanabe, which included areas of cultivable and uncultivable. In any case, used it very little and therefore needed a loan. But despite this, he refused to sell alcunché.ma Not only that when his students brought him 's offer monthly, he said he did not need this kind of thing that would never accept money directly, and donassero who preferred them to the gods, so that the day when he needed money, he prayed to the gods, so they receive the necessary. He never accepted money to teach Budo. The dojo at that time was the billiard room of the Shimazu family, and here gathered to enjoy many military officers and aristocratic people. At that time we called our art Ueshiba Juku Aikijitsu.
B: At what age did you start practicing?
Kisshomaru: You can start at the age of 7, but we must wait the 15 to practice seriously. Physically speaking, the body begins to strengthen and to fortify their bones at that 'age. Since, moreover, contains many spiritual aspects of Aikido, you have to wait for that age have its own world view, and then the nature of Budo. Therefore, ultimately, I'd say 15 to 16 years is a good age to start practicing.
B: Compared to Judo, there are few occasions when they can grab in Aikido so you can simultaneously compare more than one opponent, which is ideal in Budo. In this respect, there are many thugs who come to learn Aikido?
Kisshomaru: to eh, sure, sometimes people also master of the genre. But when such people are studying Aikido with the intention of using it as a weapon to fight, do not last for long. Practicing martial arts is not like dancing or watch a movie. Sun or rain, you still practice every day if you want to move forward. In particular Aikido might be called a spiritual practice that uses the forms of Budo. It is too deep to be cultivated by those who want to use it to get into fights. In any case, individuals especially prone to violence, cease to be so after learning Aikido.
B: I see ... through constant training can correct their
violent behavior.
O-SENSEI: L 'Aikido is not a' martial art of violence but rather an art of love, where violence has no place. Indeed we must gently guide the violent assaults their opponents. It can not be thugs too long ..
B: L 'idea, then is not to oppose violence to violence, but to transform the violence into love.
A: What to teach to a beginner as essential in Aikido? In judo, for example, the first thing you learn to fall ...
Kisshomaru: First of all the body movement (tai sabaki), then the flow of ki.
A: What is meant by "flow of ki?
Kisshomaru: In Aikido, we constantly try to control the energy of our partners, through the control of our own energy, guiding the company in our own movement. After we train our body to rotate. Do not just move the body, we must move his arms and legs together so that the entire body is unified and can move smoothly.
B: Watching Aikido practice, students seem to fall naturally. What kind of training do you do to prevent falls?
Kisshomaru: Unlike judo, where you grab with your partner in Aikido you keep a certain distance. Therefore, you can apply a freer style of fall. Instead of falling with a thud, as in Judo, we use a circular drop, a form of fall much more natural. So we practice these four basic diligently.
B: So you practice tai-sabaki, ki no nagare, tenkan and ukemi and then begin the study of the techniques. What kind of techniques to be taught 'start?
Kisshomaru: shihonage, a technique where you can throw an opponent in several directions. Replicates the basic movements of ken. Of course, also practice sword. As mentioned above, in Aikido, I'awersario becomes part of our movement. In this way I can move at will. Similarly, when I train with a stick or a sword, I make that become a part of myself, like an arm or a leg. So any weapon in the hands of a aikidoka ceases to be a simple object. Become an 'extension of his own body. The next is iriminage. In this technique comes with the whole body as soon as the opponent tries to hurt us. In this brief moment you can also launch 2 or 3 atemi. For example, if our enemy attacks us from the side with a punch, using his energy, we open our bodies in guiding him in a rotation that follows the direction of his attack. So we raise our arm drawing a circle over his head throwing him to the ground. This is also the flow of ki. There are various and complex theories about this. L 'uke is completely powerless, or rather, its full force is directed where we want to project. So the greater the strength of our partner and is more easy for us. But on the other hand, if our techniques in a clash with anyone opposing our energy to his, would not be possible to defeat an opponent stronger than us.
O-Sensei: Aikido in fact, never go against the energy of our attacker. When he attacks us with a punch or cutting off vertically like a sword, drawing essentially a point or line. All you have to do is to dodge them.
Kisshomaru: Then we teach the techniques of immobilization, shomenuchi ikkyo, Nikky and so on.
B: The 'Spiritual Aikido contains many elements. How long it takes for a beginner to acquire knowledge bases?
Kisshomaru: Because there are people more or less coordinated, I can not make a general estimate. But after about three months of diligent practice, a beginner starts to get a 'no idea what the' Aikido is. Once it reaches six months of practice it is difficult to leave. Those who have only a superficial interest retire earlier than three months.
B: He seemed to understand that the 28th of this month there will be tests for shodan. How many black belts there are at present?
Kisshomaru: The highest degree awarded is currently the eighth dan, are the four who have achieved. There are six practitioners with the seventh dan, dan, and numerous first, considering all those who have begun after the war.
B: So there is a high number of people who practice the 'Aikido throughout the country.
Kisshomaru: Master Tohei visited Hawaii and the United States to promote Aikido. In Hawaii, there are about 1,200 practitioners, equivalent to about 80,000 practitioners in Tokyo. There is also a small number of black belts in France. There was a Frenchman who wanted to experience the true spirit of 'Aikido after studying judo. Not being satisfied with the practice in France has decided to look at the place where Aikido was born, and came to Japan. Panama's Ambassador to practice Aikido, but it seems that the climate of Japan is too cold for him and so not practical in winter. There is also a girl, Onado Haru, who has trained with us for several anni.Poi has suffered for Italy to become an 'artist. A few days ago, I received a letter from Rome, where he says to be very happy because he met an Italian who practice Aikido with which it can train.
Kisshomaru: to eh, sure, sometimes people also master of the genre. But when such people are studying Aikido with the intention of using it as a weapon to fight, do not last for long. Practicing martial arts is not like dancing or watch a movie. Sun or rain, you still practice every day if you want to move forward. In particular Aikido might be called a spiritual practice that uses the forms of Budo. It is too deep to be cultivated by those who want to use it to get into fights. In any case, individuals especially prone to violence, cease to be so after learning Aikido.
B: I see ... through constant training can correct their
violent behavior.
O-SENSEI: L 'Aikido is not a' martial art of violence but rather an art of love, where violence has no place. Indeed we must gently guide the violent assaults their opponents. It can not be thugs too long ..
B: L 'idea, then is not to oppose violence to violence, but to transform the violence into love.
A: What to teach to a beginner as essential in Aikido? In judo, for example, the first thing you learn to fall ...
Kisshomaru: First of all the body movement (tai sabaki), then the flow of ki.
A: What is meant by "flow of ki?
Kisshomaru: In Aikido, we constantly try to control the energy of our partners, through the control of our own energy, guiding the company in our own movement. After we train our body to rotate. Do not just move the body, we must move his arms and legs together so that the entire body is unified and can move smoothly.
B: Watching Aikido practice, students seem to fall naturally. What kind of training do you do to prevent falls?
Kisshomaru: Unlike judo, where you grab with your partner in Aikido you keep a certain distance. Therefore, you can apply a freer style of fall. Instead of falling with a thud, as in Judo, we use a circular drop, a form of fall much more natural. So we practice these four basic diligently.
B: So you practice tai-sabaki, ki no nagare, tenkan and ukemi and then begin the study of the techniques. What kind of techniques to be taught 'start?
Kisshomaru: shihonage, a technique where you can throw an opponent in several directions. Replicates the basic movements of ken. Of course, also practice sword. As mentioned above, in Aikido, I'awersario becomes part of our movement. In this way I can move at will. Similarly, when I train with a stick or a sword, I make that become a part of myself, like an arm or a leg. So any weapon in the hands of a aikidoka ceases to be a simple object. Become an 'extension of his own body. The next is iriminage. In this technique comes with the whole body as soon as the opponent tries to hurt us. In this brief moment you can also launch 2 or 3 atemi. For example, if our enemy attacks us from the side with a punch, using his energy, we open our bodies in guiding him in a rotation that follows the direction of his attack. So we raise our arm drawing a circle over his head throwing him to the ground. This is also the flow of ki. There are various and complex theories about this. L 'uke is completely powerless, or rather, its full force is directed where we want to project. So the greater the strength of our partner and is more easy for us. But on the other hand, if our techniques in a clash with anyone opposing our energy to his, would not be possible to defeat an opponent stronger than us.
O-Sensei: Aikido in fact, never go against the energy of our attacker. When he attacks us with a punch or cutting off vertically like a sword, drawing essentially a point or line. All you have to do is to dodge them.
Kisshomaru: Then we teach the techniques of immobilization, shomenuchi ikkyo, Nikky and so on.
B: The 'Spiritual Aikido contains many elements. How long it takes for a beginner to acquire knowledge bases?
Kisshomaru: Because there are people more or less coordinated, I can not make a general estimate. But after about three months of diligent practice, a beginner starts to get a 'no idea what the' Aikido is. Once it reaches six months of practice it is difficult to leave. Those who have only a superficial interest retire earlier than three months.
B: He seemed to understand that the 28th of this month there will be tests for shodan. How many black belts there are at present?
Kisshomaru: The highest degree awarded is currently the eighth dan, are the four who have achieved. There are six practitioners with the seventh dan, dan, and numerous first, considering all those who have begun after the war.
B: So there is a high number of people who practice the 'Aikido throughout the country.
Kisshomaru: Master Tohei visited Hawaii and the United States to promote Aikido. In Hawaii, there are about 1,200 practitioners, equivalent to about 80,000 practitioners in Tokyo. There is also a small number of black belts in France. There was a Frenchman who wanted to experience the true spirit of 'Aikido after studying judo. Not being satisfied with the practice in France has decided to look at the place where Aikido was born, and came to Japan. Panama's Ambassador to practice Aikido, but it seems that the climate of Japan is too cold for him and so not practical in winter. There is also a girl, Onado Haru, who has trained with us for several anni.Poi has suffered for Italy to become an 'artist. A few days ago, I received a letter from Rome, where he says to be very happy because he met an Italian who practice Aikido with which it can train.
O-SENSEI: the essential points are Masakatzu, Agatzu and Katzuhayai. As I said before, "Masakatzu" means "good victory", "Agatzu" you mean "being in agreement with your mission on earth", "Katzuhayai" indicates "the mental state of absolute victory"
B: The Way of 'Aikido seems very long, is not it?
O-Sensei: The Way of 'Aiki is infinite. Today I have 76 years, but am still in my research. It is not an easy goal to teach the Way in Budo as in any art. In Aikido, one must understand all phenomena of the universe. It is a workout that lasts a lifetime.
B: So you learn Aikido martial parallel with the teachings and divine. But at a glance what the spirit of Aikido?
O-SENSEI: L 'Aikido is love (AI). We must fill their hearts with love 's universe, and then embrace its mission to protect and love for all things. Accept this mission is the true budo. It means winning over themselves and eliminate the idea of \u200b\u200bthe enemy from our hearts. It is a way of individual perfection in which there is no place for violence. The techniques of 'Aiki is a spiritual training through a street where you search the union of body and mind, in accordance with the principles of' universe.
B: So 'goal of Aikido is peace in the world.
O-SENSEI: 's ultimate goal of' Aikido is the creation of a paradise on earth, so that everyone can be in harmony. Then we will not need atomic energy and hydrogen bombs. It could be a wonderful world.
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