The Spirit of Aikido

This book is an excellent resource for anyone who is interested in finding out what makes Aikido different from other martial arts, or one who wants a little history on this relatively young martial art. The goal of this book is to let the reader know what makes Aikido stand out in relation to other martial arts, and to explain the overall goals of Aikidoka, or practitioners of Aikido. It doesn't spend much time discussing movements or katas, but rather tries to impart the very nature of Aikido, which is the harmony of mankind through martial arts. Aikido differs from many martial arts in the non-aggressive nature of its movements, and its non-violent attitude. The idea of Aikido is to disperse an attack without harming the attacker, or allowing one's self to come to harm. Written by the son of the founder of Aikido, its authenticity cannot be challenged by anyone within the martial arts world.If you are interested in getting to know more about Aikido, this is the book for you. However, if you are looking for a how-to book on Aikido, this one isn't what you're looking for.

A well written overview of Aikido written by the founders son. This is a book that you will pull off your shelf many times over the years. One must truly read this book to gain their own insight. And that is a sign of a great book. It is an absolute must for any martial artisit.

i read this book before i knew anything about Aikido. I must say that the ideas That Doshu expresses in this book are incredible. After finishing the book i saw in the back that there was a Dojo in Berkeley right near where i live so i went to watch and have been training since that day everyday for three hours. The expression and clarity in the book are ones that not all martial arts books can do. If you are interested it will be a most enjoyable read, if your not interested you'll still enjoy it.

There is no doubt that Kisshomaru Ueshiba was one of the greatest martial artists of all times. Even forgoing his phenomenal aikido skill, this book will always be a treasured tome, held dear by Aikidoists everywhere. No other book is so concise, with such poetry combining with the technicality. My first reading opened my eyes to the endless possibilities of the arts, a book written so humbly, yet packing electrifing knowledge.

A well written overview of Aikido,its beginnings its philosophy from someone very close to its founder,his son. This book has been with me for 10 years and I read it constantly. It helps me in the Dojo at home and work. Spiritually its uplifting and I am always concious of its content. One has to read it to gain their own reflection. I have a long way to go. An absolute must for any Akidoka or persons wanting a full life.