Description

People often speak of a ‘slap in the face’ when a politician is beaten in an election. Or of a financial ‘stranglehold’ when a company’s money supply is cut off. These are just two examples of the many metaphors that symbolically bring the language of violence into everyday life. Popular wisdom apparently considers this comparison of the energies involved to be quite appropriate.

As a long-time practitioner of the Japanese martial art Aikido, René Krumm is convinced, that the principles and techniques of this peaceful self-defense system can also be meaningfully transferred to everyday life! The syllable ‘Ai’ means harmony, ‘Ki’ translates as flow of vital force, and ‘Do’ is the path of practice. Aikido therefore stands for a harmonisation of vital life forces.

This happens not by opposing forces but rather by moving with them and redirecting them. All areas of our lives are full of mixed energies – social conflicts, financial or other material problems, professional or health challenges. We also have to deal with our mental and emotional patterns, and these inner forces can have just as strong an impact as external ones. For application to everyday life, 15 elements of Aikido training are examined in detail and brought to life through effective description and illustration.

A key factor is not to insist on one’s own position and perspective in blocked situations. ‘Neither car, aeroplane, nor boat can be steered in a different direction if it is stationary. So, first we set the blocked situation in motion with a small step – and this is where the Aiki Principle really begins to take effect!’ With this practical experience, it becomes clear that the philosophy of the Aiki principle encompasses far more than just martial arts. Combined with a holistic worldview, the Aiki Principle can actually contribute to greater peace and harmony, both in our daily lives and in society as a whole!