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Because of its genrally effortless and
subtle sensing arts and techniques, Shizendo Aiki-waza is especially ideal
for smaller men and women for moderate exercise, yet a viable method of
self-defense. Self confidence, leadership and a deeper understanding
of Ki is enhanced in the process.
To a casual observer, the Shizendo Aiki-waza class
major activities may appear no different from a typical Aikido self
defense class, but closer scrutiny will reveal the subtle sensory
awareness required. A shifting of weight here, a sliding foot there,
alternating flexion-extension, fluidity of mental lines, etc. nurtures
even a beginner early in their career to think and move with a "maximum
efficiency with a minimum of muscle tension". This helps individuals
develop a higher level of calmness, consciousness and self-awareness for
daily living. Training integrates, freehand, wooden staff(jo),
wooden sword(bokken) arts, muscle energy testing and Ki sensitivity.
Shizendo Aiki-waza's "non-fighting mind"
philosophy is manifested by the relaxed and relatively mon-violent nature
of take-downs and locks. Unique to Shizendo Aiki-waza are principles
of "sliding hands", "sliding feet" swivel free hip/knee/feet coordination,
"tail was the dog", "stutter step avoidance", etc. Some "soft
technique" schools of Aikido may also teach similar methods based on their
own research.
Neutralizing the disadvantages of size, strength,
height, aggressive nature, etc. with relaxed techniques is the most
difficult principle to teach beginners and advanced alike. Some
learn it quicker than others, but with sincere practice, higher degrees of
sensory awareness can be attained by almost anyone. Such practices
help right/left brain hemispheres integration essential not only for
self-defense but for efficiency in learning anything in life.
Once a student begins to sense the "essence" of "functional
relaxation", their techniques become much more fluid and efficient.
Though Shizendo Aiki-waza arts were orignially adapted from the Prof.
Koichi Tohei Aikido model, subsequent experimentation at Shizendo has
devleoped modified techniques which are continually re-evaluated and
improved in the light of new discoveries and individual student needs.
Because of the moderate, non-violent nature of
Aiki-waza, adults, young and old find it suitable as an enjoyable
mind-body integration exercise while learning a viable form of self
defense. Founder Kimura does not consider himself a martial art
expert, but more a coach-facilitator-researcher in helping people to
literally and figuratively "move" more efficiently toward positive change.
An added "bonus" is the teaching of postural
analysis and improvement exercieses and Ki balancing skills. This is
part of Kimura's Shizendo Ki Kinesiology protocols. You learn how to
sense and project Ki not only for dojo use, but also in daily life.
Copyright © 2001 Shizendo Kanno
Kanwa Kai
All rights reserved.
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