Aikido of Dallas

https://youtu.be/8tXmtzLCAQw?si=Cl8uL_uLDd346si4

2023 USAF Summer Camp Classes Harvey Konigsberg Shihan and Andy Demko Shihan

https://youtu.be/6RetK7gAyv8?si=Z7OO8bjmtuTU-Hxx

Good Aikido: Rare Aikido Video of Osensei Morihei Ueshiba Jiuwaza in Iwama This is a rare aikido video of Osensei Morihei Ueshiba in Iwama doing jiuwaza. It's amazing to see Osensei (in his old age) displays such dynamic and good ai...

Yoga and Aikido, while distinct disciplines with unique histories and practices, share a profound similarity: both can be described as forms of moving meditation. This shared quality stems from the intense focus and presence required in each practice, preventing the mind from wandering and fostering a meditative state.

Yoga, often referred to as moving meditation, emphasizes achieving and maintaining poses, or asanas, which require complete concentration. The practitioner must focus on alignment, balance, and breath, uniting body and mind in harmony. This concentrated effort naturally silences the mental chatter, creating a meditative state where the mind becomes fully present in the moment. The continual transition between poses deepens this state, as each movement demands attention, precision, and mindfulness.

Aikido mirrors this meditative quality through its dynamic practice of martial techniques. As Uke (the partner initiating the attack), one must be fully present to execute their role correctly, ensuring the safety of both themselves and their partner, Nage (the one performing the counterattack). The act of attacking with intent, falling safely, and responding fluidly requires unwavering attention. Similarly, as Nage, complete presence is indispensable to execute techniques effectively and maintain the flow of practice. Uke, on the other hand, must react appropriately to atemi, ensuring both partners’ safety and the seamless ex*****on of the technique. The practice leaves no room for distraction; a wandering mind could lead to injury or disrupt the flow of the technique.

This shared necessity for focus in both yoga and Aikido cultivates a meditative state through movement. In yoga, the meditative state arises as the practitioner immerses themselves in the flow of breath and movement. In Aikido, it emerges from the deep connection between Uke and Nage, where timing, precision, and mutual awareness create a seamless exchange of energy. Both practices, therefore, achieve a form of moving meditation that connects body, mind, and spirit in a harmonious flow.

However, this delicate meditative state can be disrupted by external distractions, such as unnecessary conversation during practice. In Aikido, for instance, talking breaks the continuity of focus and interrupts the mutual awareness necessary for safe and effective training. Similarly, in yoga, verbal interruptions can pull practitioners out of their mindful state, disrupting their concentration and flow. The quiet environment in both practices is essential to maintain the meditative quality and ensure the integrity of the practice.

In conclusion, both yoga and Aikido exemplify moving meditation, requiring complete mental presence and focus. While they achieve this through different means—yoga through the deliberate holding and transitioning of poses, and Aikido through the dynamic interplay between Uke and Nage—both foster mindfulness and a meditative state that connects practitioners deeply to the present moment. This shared quality highlights the profound connection between these two disciplines, offering practitioners not just physical benefits but also mental clarity and inner peace.

https://youtu.be/PtibobLK56I?si=lgLBbSNEtV-dfygC

I Fought An Aikido Master (Real Sparring) I trained Aikido vs Karate sparring with Leo Tamaki. People say Aikido techniques don't work in MMA or street fight. But this martial arts expert reveals the...

Why Aikido Isn’t Used in MMA Fights and How It Differs from Other Martial Arts**

Aikido is a beautiful and unique martial art, but it’s often misunderstood, especially when people ask why it’s not commonly seen in MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) fights. Here’s my take on the subject:

1. Aikido’s Philosophy
Unlike many martial arts, Aikido isn’t focused on competition or defeating an opponent. It’s rooted in principles of harmony, blending with an attack, and redirecting energy. The goal is not to "win" but to neutralize conflict with minimal harm to all parties. This is why Aikido techniques are designed to control rather than injure—an approach that doesn’t align well with the competitive nature of MMA.

2. MMA vs. Aikido in Practice
MMA emphasizes high-intensity combat, with a focus on striking, grappling, and submission techniques that are often tested under pressure. Aikido, on the other hand, is practiced in a controlled environment, emphasizing fluid movements, balance, and using an opponent’s energy against them. While incredibly effective in self-defense scenarios, the lack of competitive sparring in Aikido makes it less adaptable to the dynamic, fast-paced exchanges in an MMA fight.

3. Aikido’s Unique Approach
Aikido teaches awareness, discipline, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. Practitioners often train to respond to attacks in a way that minimizes harm to both themselves and their attackers. This focus on non-violence and personal growth sets it apart from martial arts that prioritize physical dominance or aggression.

So, why choose Aikido?
Aikido isn’t about proving yourself in a ring—it’s about personal development, self-discipline, and learning how to navigate conflict (both physical and emotional) with grace and control. It’s a martial art that shapes the mind and spirit as much as the body.

MMA fighters and Aikido practitioners share immense respect for their respective crafts. While Aikido may not be suited for MMA, it offers invaluable lessons for life off the mat.

Let me know your thoughts—have you ever tried Aikido or wondered about its philosophy? I'd love to hear your perspective!

https://youtu.be/PtibobLK56I?si=lgLBbSNEtV-dfygC

https://youtu.be/OpH0L_1neYE?si=3VcpO4rtGTYWOYg1

Old School Osensei - Aikido

https://youtu.be/joc7WhUnQHk?si=srHuGY1ioH6RF3XO

O-Sensei's attackers have no idea how they were thrown! Highlights of a rare film presenting Morihei Ueshiba O-Sensei, the Founder of Aikido, published by Aikido Journal. The Master's technique is elegant and mart...

Dec. 24, 26, 31 -- Dojo closed year-end schedule

Dec. 14-15 -- Vu Ha, Chief Instructor of Boston Aikikai, will be in town visiting family, and is expected to lead classes those days. Catherine is also expected. Everyone is welcome to all classes, and encouraged to attend.

Nov. 28 -- Dojo closed in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday