The Way of Aikido: Life Lessons from an American Sensei

Draws on the philosophical teachings of aikido to present a series of life lessons on how to transform pain into joy, violence and anger into reconciliation, discord into harmony, and pain into vital energy. 25,000 first printing.

In The Way of Aikido: Life Lessons from an American Sensei, renowned spiritual and martial arts teacher George Leonard brings together his extraordinary knowledge and experience in a book that translates the principles of aikido directly into our everyday lives.

In its essence, aikido is more philosophy and meditation than a technique or a series of purely physical maneuvers. Leonard shares with readers the secrets of this remarkable Eastern philosophy, which is the basis for the most radical and demanding of all martial arts. Through mind-body exercises inspired by aikido yet designed for non-aikidoists, he demonstrates the fundamental understanding behind aikido and shows how it can be applied to our daily existence to help set us on the path to composure, self-sufficiency, and spiritual centeredness.

Combining illuminating personal anecdotes with practical advice, this award-winning author describes the ways in which aikido can help turn life's unanticipated blows into gifts and transform discord into harmony, anxiety and pain into vital energy. Exhilarating, enlightening, and filled with unique wisdom, The Way of Aikido is an inspiring lesson in balance, confidence, and power.