Aikido is a Japanese martial art founded by Morihei Ueshiba, who is also known as “O’Sensei” which means “great teacher.” It is a comprehensive system of throwing, joint-locking, striking and pinning techniques, coupled with training in traditional Japanese weapons such as the sword, staff and knife. 

Begun by O’ Sensei early in the twentieth century following his own extensive study of various armed and unarmed martial systems, Aikido represents a potent distillation of centuries of Japanese martial knowledge. It is one of the most widely practiced Budo systems, or “martial ways,” in the world. 

After his years of experience in the martial arts, and seeing the destruction and harm that violence brings, Ueshiba developed a philosophy of Aikido that emphasized neutralization of forces and peaceful resolutions. Thus, Aikido techniques aim to use the attacker’s force against themselves and tries to end a conflict without injury to the defender or attacker. Many practitioners of Aikido use this philosophy not only in training but also in their everyday lives, utilizing the wisdom of O’Sensei in non-martial areas of life as well. 

Quotes by O’Sensei Morihei Ueshiba:

“Study how water flows in a valley stream, smoothly and freely between the rocks. Everything - even mountains, rivers, plants and trees - should be your teacher.”

“To injure an opponent is to injure yourself. To control aggression without inflicting injury is the Art of Peace.”

“There are no contests in the Art of Peace. A true warrior is invincible because he or she contests with nothing. Defeat means to defeat the mind of contention that we harbor within.”

“A good stance and posture reflect a proper state of mind.”

“Always keep your mind as bright and clear as the vast sky, the great ocean, and the highest peak, empty of all thoughts. Always keep your body filled with light and heat. Fill yourself with the power of wisdom and enlightenment.”

“Your heart is full of fertile seeds, waiting to sprout.”

“When an opponent comes forward, move in and greet him; if he wants to pull back, send him on his way.”

“Those who are possessed by nothing possess everything.”