Related Terms

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Background

• Aikido is a form of martial arts, which combines philosophy, mental training and physical fitness. This particular martial art stresses an awareness of energy and whole-body coordination in combat.
• Aikido is a word that is comprised of three Japanese characters: ai, or joining; ki, or spirit; and do, or way. Used together, these words convey the principle of two bodies in combat moving to redirect one another's blows.
• Aikido is a modern Japanese martial art developed by Morihei Ueshiba over a period of three decades, beginning in the 1920s.
• Aikido is not primarily a form of combat technique. Training and working within the aikido also involves a strong spiritual component. Although aikido instruction does focus on the development of physical strength, this practice goes hand in hand with the development of the spiritual self. The English translations of aikido are "the way to union with universal energy," "the way of spiritual harmony," and "the way of peace."
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Technique

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Theory/Evidence

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Safety

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Author Information

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References

Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.

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