Aikido: The Way of Harmony - Softcover

Stevens MD, John

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1626543275 ISBN 13: 9781626543270

Publisher: Echo Point Books & Media, 2016

Synopsis

This definitive, richly illustrated manual covers the essential elements of the philosophy and practice of Aikido, the Japanese martial art that has been embraced by psychologists, spiritual teachers, and even Western bodywork practitioners.

 

Full of insightful wisdom for beginners and experienced students alike, this book details the traditional methods and techniques of Shirata Rinjiro, of whom John Stevens is a principal student. Noted for the precise execution of a wide range of techniques and an emphasis on Aikido as a spiritual path, Shirata Sensei's teachings exemplify the Way of the Warrior: superior technical prowess combined with profound spiritual insight. 

 

In addition to photographs and descriptions of all the important Aikido techniques, Stevens recounts interesting and lively anecdotes about the history of Aikido and its founder, Ueshiba Morihei, who developed it from a martial art into a spiritual discipline. A biography of Shirata Sensei, complete with his reflections on sixty years of Aikido practice, is also included.

 

John Stevens lived in Japan for 35 years, where he was a professor of Buddhist studies at Tohoku Fukushi University in Sendai. A widely respected translator, ordained Buddhist priest, curator of several major exhibitions of Zen art, and an aikido instructor, he has authored more than thirty books and is one of the foremost Western experts on aikido, holding a ranking of 7th dan Aikikai.

Readers interested in related titles from John Stevens will also want to see: Abundant Peace (ISBN: 9781626543232), Sacred Calligraphy of the East (ISBN: 9781626549944), Secrets of Aikido (ISBN: 9781626543256), The Marathon Monks of Mount Hiei (ISBN: 9781626549951), The Philosophy of Aikido (ISBN: 9781626549937), Extraordinary Zen Masters (ISBN: 9781626549920).

About this title

From the Inside Flap:

This illustrated manual covers both the philosophy and practice of the popular Japanese martial art of Aikido.

About the Author:

Shirata Rinjiro served for many years as Director of the All-Japan Aikido Federation and frequently conducted seminars overseas.

About this edition

• Publisher: Echo Point Books & Media
• Publication date: 2016
• ISBN 10: 1626543275
• ISBN 13: 9781626543270
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 210