What are Ki development exercises?
These are exercises designed to give you a feeling of proper posture and balance. They will also give you an idea of what it means to catch one point and send Ki.
What is "one point"?
This is a concept that can be demonstrated in class more easily than it can be explained on paper. "One point" is the body's center--a point in the lower abdomen where mind and body come together. Concentrating on the one point in the abdomen has the effect of bringing the body into a stronger, more correct posture, and calming the mind.
How can I "catch one point"?
Catching one point is basically the act of concentrating your mind on the one point in your abdomen that is your center. Everyone is a little different, so the one point is a little different for everyone. An idea that works for many people is to imagine that your one point is the center of the universe. Then imagine the universe is getting smaller, condensed to half of its original size and still centered at your one point. Keep concentrating on the universe, each time shrinking it to half of its previous size. Soon you may be able to imagine the whole universe condensed to the size of a basketball, a softball, a golf ball, a marble, etc. All this serves to place your mind at your one point and keeps it from moving around. This will improve your posture and balance, keep your mind calm and your body relaxed, and help you to send Ki.
What is Ki?
Ki is a Japanese word that translates loosely as life force or energy. This is another of those concepts that may be more easily demonstrated than explained. The idea is that Ki is a feeling of force or energy that flows through everything. By keeping one point, maintaining proper posture, and relaxing, we can direct our own energy in the most efficient manner.
What does it mean to "send Ki"?
To send Ki is to direct your energy. This is a hard idea for some people to use. To send Ki you have to think positive. It's a lot easier for many to "think positive" than to believe they can send Ki. Think positive during practice; after a while you will become sensitive to Ki.
What is ukemi practice?
The “uke” is the person who attacks and then is thrown. Ukemi practice involves falling, rolling, or being thrown. When practicing Aikido, we spend half our time throwing and half our time being thrown. Through ukemi practice we learn how to fall safely, without being hurt. After a little practice, ukemi become a lot of fun.
Why is there so much bowing?
Aikido is a Japanese martial art with roots in traditional Japanese customs. Bowing is a Japanese custom that indicates respect. We consider it a part of Dojo etiquette, or good manners, to bow at appropriate times.
When should I bow?
Bow when entering or leaving the practice room, when stepping on or off the mat, and when changing partners. There are other times when it is appropriate to bow. You will learn these best by watching other Dojo members and the instructors.