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There was a question on the forums about what people expected from Aikido and the following is my post. I thought I'd put it here as well.
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I started Aikido because my husband had already started training in it. He had been researching for a while to find a martial art and then a dojo that fit with his philosophy and we both feel lucky to have found the dojo that we're in.
My expectations were mainly to learn to defend myself with the option of not hurting my attacker, as well as getting some excersize in a manner that wasn't as boring or abitrary as going to a gym, and hopefully picking up a little grace in the process.
I had no idea that it would be so much more than any of those things.
In the slightly more than 7 months I've been training in Aikido, I have been extremely pleased with the physical and mental challenges that I've been exposed to. I have learned a great deal about how to deal with frustration (something that I've never had an easy time with); how to deal with ambiguity and contridictions; how to be focused and relaxed at the same time; and that perserverance reaps rewards. And then there are the physical benefits of toning, endurance and coordination.
My expectations have changed in that now I don't really view Aikido as a means to an end, but truly as the trip itself. Training in Aikido forces me to attempt things that I am not initially comfortable with and prove to myself that I can do them. I enjoy the fact that there is ALWAYS something for me to improve on and always will be.
There is so much joy in this art because of the focus on blending and harmony. I am amazed at how difficult it is to relax, but when I do, everything is so much easier. I am constantly amused by how I react to being "beat up" with smiles and laughter. That is what keeps me coming back for more. And the fact that I can carry over so many of the lessons learned to "normal life".
I'm very glad to have found Aikido. I wish that I had found it sooner.
03-28-2005 10:34 AM 