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There's likely a handful of techniques that could be used to highlight the nonviolent philosophy of Aikido. In my opinion, shihonage is one of the best examples. Since Aikido is a derivative of the samurai tradition, it's really appropriate to talk about the use of the sword in shiho nage and how to use the attacker's sword to protect you *and* the attacker.
At the moment of the strike, entering in and grabbing the sword is where the transfer of control begins. It's not a complete transfer, when you raise the sword you are still sharing it with the attacker. It's at this point that the attack itself has become neutralized and you both are now in position to defend against any other attack that might present itself. And so that's the physical aspect of protecting your attacker. What else is there?
OK. A coworker just came screaming into your office and needs to know why you just sent that "flea brained memo" to the entire department. And right on queue, your boss comes in. She thanks you for sending out the memo on her behalf but rubs it in your face that you missed the last two meetings with a long standing client.
So your boss is essentially attacking you but at the same time giving you a way to deal with your coworker. You are now in the position to defend your boss. Cool! Your boss was angry with you but at the same time has presented you with an opportunity to protect her. This will make it easier for you to defend yourself about missing the meetings (you do have a good reason, right?). The ability to navigate through a situation like this requires simply observing the subtleties of interacting with people. It's not an easy skill but is incredibly beneficial.
02-28-2015 10:50 AM 