The Aikido Center's purpose is to make a profound and real change in the lives of its students by teaching/living Aikido in alignment with the teachings of the founder, Morihei Ueshiba O'Sensei (1883 - 1969). The Aikido Center is a beautiful and vibrant dojo for a community of diverse, adventurous and exuberant people passionately practicing Aikido. People of all races, nationalities, gender, sexual orientation, and religion are welcome.
Aikido is a profound physical, mental, and spiritual discipline of personal and global transformation. Its teachings are based on the practical application of spiritual wisdom as taught by Aikido's founder, Ueshiba Morihei O Sensei (1883-1969). Ueshiba Sensei taught that the essence of Aikido is the loving protection of all beings. He believed in the oneness of all creation, that all beings are born from Kami (spirit), and, that we are each responsible for our collective destiny. His teachings emphasize positive tools to transform the negative effects of hatred and violence through the power of love and compassion. Ueshiba O Sensei was a man of extraordinary love and compassion who created Aikido as a vehicle to awaken humanity to its true nature, which is love.
The Practice of Aikido on a physical level involves the practical application of martial techniques by the nage (thrower) to lead uke (attacker) to the ground or into a throw. During practice, both nage and uke learn how to gracefully handle high levels of physical and energetic intensity without losing his or her physical and spiritual center. Although Aikido can be utilized as a dynamic method of personal protection, this aim is considered a by-product of sincere long-term practice and not its primary purpose. Aikido no Kaiso (founder) was very clear that Aikido should be practiced as a way to become one with the Divine. Aikido is practiced in a joyful and vibrant manner so as to create a positive internal and external environment for individuals to celebrate their connection with Kami (Spirit), life and each other.
