Aikido and the Harmony of Nature

by Mitsugi Saotome

Book Overview

Here is a unique approach to the teachings of the Founder of Aikido, Morihei Ueshiba, as interpreted by his direct student of fifteen years. Mitsugi Saotome examines the spiritual philosophy of the... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0877738556
• ISBN13: 9780877738558
• Release Date: October 1993
• Publisher: Shambhala
• Length: 251 Pages
• Weight: 1.49 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 8.5" x 11.0"

Customer Reviews

Harmony of Nature

Simpler said then done. Now, this book is my main aikido book. Upon reading you will expand you're mind and take a total different and right look upon martial arts. The ego is discussed here, war, terms are difficult but very good described. in short, you must have this book. It stands above it all.

For balance in your reading...

This book addresses the spirit and the connection to all things natural that exists in Aikido. It is a dimension sadly lacking in many Aikido texts. Any student of Aikido should have a copy, and hang on to it... Highly Recommended.

Outstanding

This was one of the first books I purchased when I began my journey of study into this art. I HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend it. Saotome is one of the few individuals who actually studied with O-Sensei. He details several accounts of working with the founder both in and out of the dojo. He also gives a unique spiritual interpretation of many of the major techniques used in the art and references forces in nature and the universe for comparison. Well written and well founded. A must-read for any serious aikidoka.

A one of a kind book !

Saotome Shihan(one that is worthy to be followed) has written a very distintive and uncommon book. There is nothing about technique or fighting ways. The book is concerned with the spiritual side of Aikido and the importance of becoming a better person through its practice. That does not mean that Saotome Shihan is one of those dreamy-eyed, "new-age" people...He talks straight and proposes many ideas full of common sense. The book also is full of his fond memories of Ueshiba Sensei(founder of Aikido)and gives sound advice on how to improve our lives. All in all, a one of a kind book. You must have it in your martial arts library !

The spiritual world of Aikido made accessible to Westerners

Taking the esoteric Shinto based beliefs of the Founder of Aikido, Morihei Ueshiba, Saotome Sensei translates these ideas into Western terms using examples from natural science, physics, psychology, and mathematics. Not a technique book! This is the premier explanation of Aikido philosophy in terms comprehensible to the average Westerner.There are very few teachers who had more exposure to the Founder on a daily basis, training with O-Sensei for over fifteen years! If you only have one Aikido book, this should be it!