We started a new adventure late 2020 when all Aikido dojos in Ventura closed. We had to reinvent ourselves and we had to adapt to the situation. We still don't know anything about the future, it is uncertain but we keep moving forward. I believe that we are in the right direction because we can train. The principles of martial arts teaches us to find a solution when there is a problem. Every day, we are exposed to small or big challenges and we have to find ways to solve them.
In Aikido, we are in a safe environment and the student can learn how to find solutions to problems. Should the student resist or use force?
In our experience, resistance and force only lead to bigger problem as it might aggravate the situation. A challenge needs to be faced and with the tools learn in our practice, we work on finding patiently and smartly the resolution. In Aikido, resistance leads to more resistance from the partner. We learn how to absorb and how to take control of the attack.
Aikido should help a student to develop self-confidence and have a better sense of conflict resolution.
Research and study will help the student to better understand the world. Masakatsu agatsu (正勝吾勝, true victory is self victory), this quote was often used by Morihei Ueshiba, the founder of Aikido and it means: a true victory of self-mastery.
“If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat. If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle.” ― Sun Tzu, The Art of War.