~~There are some very excellent threads here about how to train as nage and how to train as uke. How much force is appropriate, surviving as uke, being mellow or upping the stakes, etc. It got me thinking about the focus each of us holds while training. I, personally, am trying to keep focus on blending and harmonizing throughout the entire engagement whether I'm nage or uke, doesn't matter to me. So I guess my training focus is about sensitivity...some of the hardest training I've done to date. Hopefully, my uke will never feel in danger of a joint rending apart or being slammed so hard into the mat that their spine rattles. I've certainly done that sort of training over many years and much prefer to Aikido ideal, for reasons far beyond the physical. And, hopefully, I will feel uke's foot flying at my head and move...get off line, basic principle. If I can manage to remain calm, then I notice that same calmness in uke and training can be much more smooth, dynamic, connected and nonthreatening; and I have learned more about working with partner's energy and mind set, to me much more interesting than tossing someone.
Just some random thoughts
Spinningmonkey
