Description

Italian master Massimo di Villadorata shows how important rhythm is to the practice of aikido. The motion of the planets has a rhythm. The motion of an atom has a rhythm. The heartbeat is rhythmical and so is breathing. All body functions follow a rhythm in harmony with the rhythm of day and night and with the rhythm of the seasons. When the rhythm is disturbed, we experience pain, sickness, and sorrow. Conflicting rhythms result in confrontation and violence. The purpose of Aikido is to recognize this disorder and immediately correct all forms of confrontation, physical or mental. When an attack is avoided and its energy is fluidly and effortlessly redirected toward its source, the rhythm of Aikido is born. It is the emphasis on rhythm over strength that transforms Aikido practice from performing techniques to an artistic expression. From being a violent sport to a strategy of conflict resolution. From a form of physical training to a path towards developing the individual as a physically and mentally healthy person. This DVD includes instruction of basic techniques, randori, suwariwaza, and hanmi handachi. Also includes bonus footage of demontrations dating from 1969 – 1987.