The Emotion of Love

Love, Aikido, and the Human Spirit

Love is one of the most powerful forces we experience. It can bring great happiness, inspire personal growth, and give meaning to our lives. Yet it can also be the source of profound sorrow, disappointment, and heartache. Few emotions have such power to shape the human experience.

When we speak of love, we often think of romance, but love is much broader than this. We first encounter it through our families, friendships, and communities. Through these relationships, we learn trust, compassion, responsibility, and respect. The quality of these early experiences often influences how we relate to others throughout our lives.

This may seem an unusual subject in relation to Aikido, yet those who practise sincerely will recognize the connection. Aikido is often described as a path of harmony. It seeks not the destruction of an opponent but the resolution of conflict. In this sense, Aikido requires many of the same qualities that allow love to flourish: patience, understanding, honesty, and empathy.

Relationships, like martial arts, demand effort and commitment. When difficulties arise in training, we do not usually abandon the art at the first obstacle. We study, practise, and persevere until understanding develops. Human relationships deserve the same sincerity. Without understanding, communication, and mutual respect, even the strongest bonds can weaken.

Many of the fears and insecurities that affect our relationships originate in our past experiences. Childhood influences, family relationships, disappointments, and emotional wounds often shape our expectations without our awareness. Unless we examine these influences honestly, they continue to affect our decisions and behaviour.

The search for understanding, therefore, begins with self-examination. We must have the courage to look beyond the image we present to the world and ask ourselves difficult questions. Are we acting because of fear or lack of understanding? Are we seeking connection or merely protection from loneliness? Are we giving as much as we expect to receive?

Love cannot thrive where selfishness, resentment, or fear dominate. Genuine love asks us to move beyond our own needs and consider the well-being of others. It encourages patience rather than anger, understanding rather than judgement, and compassion rather than indifference.

This does not mean that love is weakness. On the contrary, love often demands great strength. It requires honesty when honesty is uncomfortable, forgiveness when resentment seems easier, and commitment when circumstances become difficult. Like the disciplined practice of Aikido, love calls upon us to confront ourselves as much as we confront the challenges around us.

Without love, life can become an endless pursuit of security, approval, or material comfort. People may surround themselves with distractions yet still feel isolated and unfulfilled. True contentment arises not from what we possess, but from our ability to connect meaningfully with others and with ourselves.

Love also expands our awareness. Through caring for others, we begin to appreciate the value of life itself. We become more tolerant, more compassionate, and more capable of seeing beyond our own interests. In this way, love becomes a path to wisdom as well as happiness.

The history of humanity repeatedly demonstrates that hatred, anger, and selfish ambition rarely lead to lasting fulfilment. These emotions may provide temporary satisfaction, but they often leave people isolated, bitter, and disconnected. Love, by contrast, encourages growth, understanding, and reconciliation.

This is why love occupies such an important place in the search for meaning. It motivates us to learn, to improve ourselves, and to seek deeper truths about life. It encourages us to look beyond fear and discover our shared humanity.

To love life is not to ignore suffering or difficulty. It is to accept them as part of the human journey while continuing to move forward with courage and hope. It is to remain open when it would be easier to close ourselves off. It is to continue seeking understanding when confusion and disappointment tempt us to stop searching.

The principles of Aikido teach us to blend rather than collide, to harmonize rather than dominate, and to seek resolution rather than conflict. Love teaches the same lessons. Both require awareness, discipline, humility, and sincerity. Both challenge us to become better versions of ourselves.

Ultimately, love is not merely an emotion. It is a way of relating to life. It is the willingness to understand, to care, and to remain connected despite uncertainty and change. Through love, we discover not only others, but ourselves.

Perhaps that is why love remains such a powerful force. It reminds us that the greatest journey is not the mastery of others, but the mastery of our own hearts.

Philosophy

 

Aikido and the Art of Living

We often allow our lives to be governed by the past, by both our successes and our failures. Yet it is the present moment that shapes the future. One day, the future will itself become the past, and we must be able to look back upon it without regret. That thought alone should be enough motivation to act now, regardless of how harshly life may have treated us before.

Human nature tends to dwell on disappointment, fear, and anxiety while overlooking the many positive experiences that have contributed to our growth. We remember our hardships more readily than our blessings. In doing so, we lose sight of the balance that exists within life and within nature itself.

For centuries, humanity has endured conflict, suffering, and hardship. Yet despite all our technological progress, many of the same problems remain. We continue to pursue comfort and material gain while often neglecting the deeper values that give life meaning. In our search for success, we risk losing touch with the harmony of nature and with the qualities that connect us to one another.

Perhaps the greatest loss is our failure to understand love—not merely as an emotion, but as a principle of life. Love encourages compassion, understanding, responsibility, and respect. Without these qualities, imbalance develops not only within ourselves but also within our relationships and communities.

Aikido is often viewed simply as one of the many martial arts practised in the West. Some acknowledge its philosophical dimension, while others focus primarily on its practical aspects. Yet Aikido reflects something much deeper than self-defence or physical exercise. It mirrors many of the challenges, conflicts, and aspirations that define the human experience.

As a martial art, Aikido has established its place. It offers an effective method of self-protection and a unique form of physical training. However, its greatest value may lie in what it teaches beyond technique.

Because of the strong traditions and etiquette associated with martial arts, students sometimes assume that unquestioning obedience is required. Discipline is certainly important, but true discipline must come from within. It should encourage growth rather than conformity.

Teachers have a responsibility to guide rather than control. Their role is not to create followers but to help students develop understanding and discover their own potential. At the same time, students should respect the knowledge, experience, and commitment of those who teach. Mastery in any art requires dedication, sacrifice, and perseverance.

People are drawn to Aikido for many reasons. Some seek self-defence. Others are attracted by the movement, discipline, or physical benefits. For many, however, Aikido becomes a refuge from the pressures of modern life.

Society places countless demands upon us. We work, fulfil obligations, meet deadlines, and attempt to satisfy the expectations of others. Life can become a relentless cycle of responsibilities and routines. We often feel pressured to conform, and when we fall short of expectations, guilt and anxiety quickly follow.

Yet many of our greatest struggles arise not from circumstances but from our relationships with other people. Misunderstandings, disappointments, and unresolved emotions can lead to frustration and unhappiness. Too often, we fail to recognise the true causes of our distress and instead direct our negativity towards those closest to us.

This is where Aikido offers a valuable lesson.

Through training, we learn to recognise tension before it becomes conflict. We learn to remain calm under pressure and to respond rather than react. We discover that force is not always the answer and that harmony is often more effective than resistance.

Many practitioners eventually realise that Aikido offers more than physical techniques. It provides a means of self-discovery. Through practice, we become aware of our fears, habits, strengths, and weaknesses. The dojo becomes a place where we can explore not only movement but also character.

A good teacher recognises this deeper potential and encourages students to look beyond the mechanics of technique. In doing so, Aikido becomes more than a martial art—it becomes a way of life.

Aikido promotes values such as integrity, awareness, humility, compassion, respect, and understanding. It teaches us to control our emotions rather than be controlled by them. It encourages us to seek harmony within ourselves and with those around us.

In this sense, the philosophy of Aikido closely resembles the philosophy of love. Both seek peace rather than conflict. Both encourage understanding rather than judgement. Both require patience, sincerity, commitment, and trust.

Love seeks connection. Aikido seeks harmony. Their methods may differ, but their purpose is remarkably similar.

When practised with sincerity, Aikido becomes an expression of the same principles that allow us to live fulfilling lives. It teaches us to understand ourselves, appreciate others, and find balance amidst the pressures of the modern world.

Perhaps this is why so many people discover that Aikido is not merely a martial art. It is an art of living.

And if love is the force that unites humanity, then Aikido may be one of the ways through which we learn to express it.

The Jo

 

The Jo – More Than a Staff

At first glance, the Jo appears to be a simple and unassuming weapon. Yet throughout Japanese martial history, it has earned a reputation as one of the most versatile weapons ever devised. In the hands of a skilled practitioner, the Jo one is capable of striking, thrusting, controlling, trapping, and projecting with remarkable effectiveness.

Traditionally, the Jo is made from hardwood, most commonly Japanese oak. Standard dimensions are approximately four feet two inches (128 cm) in length and about seven-eighths of an inch in diameter, although variations exist according to style, tradition, and personal preference.

The Origins of the Jo

The origins of the Jo are commonly linked to the legendary samurai Musō Gonnosuke. According to tradition, Gonnosuke was a master of the Bo, the six-foot staff, and enjoyed an impressive reputation as a warrior. Eventually, he challenged the renowned swordsman Miyamoto Musashi to a duel.

Despite his skill, Gonnosuke was defeated. Musashi spared his life, and the humbled warrior withdrew into seclusion to reflect upon his defeat. During this period of contemplation, he is said to have developed a shorter weapon based on the Bo, while adapting many of its techniques to suit the new length.

Armed with this shorter staff, Gonnosuke later sought another encounter with Musashi. Tradition tells us that this time he emerged victorious. Whether entirely historical or partly legendary, this story has become an important part of Jo culture and is often cited as the beginning of the modern Jo.

A Weapon of Versatility

The effectiveness of the Jo lies in its adaptability. Unlike many weapons that possess a distinct striking end, both ends of the Jo can be used equally. Rapid changes of grip allow strikes, thrusts, sweeps, traps, and controls to be executed seamlessly and from unexpected angles.

Its length places it between the sword and the Bo, allowing it to operate effectively at multiple ranges. The Jo can intercept attacks before they fully develop, redirect force, and create opportunities that would not exist with either a longer or shorter weapon.

These qualities made it valuable not only to warriors but also to ordinary people. Over time, specialised systems such as Jojutsu and Jodo emerged, preserving many of the classical methods and etiquette associated with Jo practice. Because of the close relationship between the Jo and the sword, many principles found in Jo training mirror those found in traditional swordsmanship.

The Jo in Aikido

The Founder of Aikido, Morihei Ueshiba, recognised the value of the Jo as a training tool and incorporated it into his practice. While classical Jo systems focus upon combat applications, Aikido approaches the Jo somewhat differently.

In Aikido, the Jo is often viewed as an extension of the body rather than merely a weapon. Its movements reflect the same principles found in empty-hand techniques: blending, circular movement, timing, balance, and the projection of energy.

This approach became known as Aiki-Jo.

The Jo allows practitioners to study distance, posture, centre-line control, and body movement in ways that often make Aikido principles more visible and easier to understand. The weapon extends the practitioner's reach, making even small errors in posture or movement immediately apparent.

For this reason, many martial artists from disciplines such as Karate, Jujutsu, and Kendo also incorporate Jo training into their practice. Each art adapts the Jo according to its own objectives, while retaining the essential qualities that make the weapon so effective.

Kata and the Development of Spirit

Like most traditional weapons systems, Jo training relies heavily upon kata and repetitive practice.

Among Aikido practitioners, the best-known form is the thirty-one movement kata, often referred to as Jo no Kata Sanjuichi. Although minor variations exist between organisations and regions, it remains one of the most widely recognised forms in Aikido weapons training.

Other forms have emerged over time, including modern interpretations such as the Five Elements Kata, which seeks to express the relationship between movement, nature, and the classical elements. Although these forms may differ greatly in appearance, they share the same underlying spirit and principles.

The purpose of kata extends far beyond memorising movements. Through repetition, students develop timing, posture, concentration, awareness, and spirit. Eventually, the Jo ceases to feel like an external object and becomes a natural extension of the practitioner's body and intention.

The Relationship Between Jo and Sword

One of the most valuable aspects of Jo training is its relationship to sword work.

In practices such as Jo-tori (taking or disarming the Jo), students quickly discover similarities with Ken-tori, the disarming of a sword-wielding opponent. These parallels reveal common principles of movement, positioning, timing, and control.

Understanding these relationships deepens one's appreciation of Aikido as a whole. The Jo and the sword are not separate studies but complementary paths leading toward the same principles.

Through this understanding, students begin to appreciate not only the mechanics of technique but also the deeper philosophy that underlies Budo.

Developing a Relationship with the Jo

Choosing a Jo should not be treated as a casual purchase. Just as practitioners often take great care when selecting a sword, the same applies to the Jo.

Weight, balance, diameter, texture, and the quality of the wood all influence how the weapon feels in the hands. A Jo should feel comfortable and natural, encouraging confidence and ease of movement.

With regular practice, familiarity develops. Every mark, grain, and subtle characteristic becomes known. Over time, the Jo ceases to feel like an object being held and instead becomes part of the practitioner's expression.

This is not mysticism but the result of countless hours of training and attention. The deeper the relationship with the weapon, the more naturally it responds to intention.

For this reason, traditional etiquette places great emphasis on respect for weapons. They should be handled responsibly, stored properly, and treated with care. Respect for the weapon reflects respect for the art and for oneself.

Responsibility and Awareness

The Jo may appear harmless compared with a sword, but it remains a martial training weapon capable of causing serious injury if used carelessly.

Practitioners should exercise common sense when transporting or handling weapons. Training should take place in appropriate environments where safety can be maintained and misunderstandings avoided. Respect for the law, for public safety, and for the reputation of martial arts is an important part of responsible practice.

More Than a Weapon

The Jo is far more than a piece of wood.

It is a tool for studying distance, timing, posture, and movement. It teaches discipline, patience, awareness, and control. It reveals the relationship between empty-hand techniques and weapons work while preserving a living connection to the traditions of Budo.

Most importantly, the Jo reminds us that the true value of martial training lies not in the weapon itself, but in the character of the person who wields it. Through sincere practice, the Jo becomes more than a staff—it becomes a vehicle for understanding ourselves, our art, and the principles that unite them.

Heart of the Samurai

 Movies and popular history have often portrayed the samurai as cold, calculating warriors with little regard for human life, blindly adhering to the code of Bushidō. While there is some truth to this image, it is often misunderstood and oversimplified. The samurai did indeed embrace a code of ethics and virtues that they sought to embody throughout their lives, aiming to attain honor through discipline, service, and self-mastery. Although aspects of their world can seem harsh or even brutal by modern standards, similar warrior ideals exist in other cultures. The chivalric traditions of medieval knights and the warrior philosophies found in Indigenous and Eastern cultures have also captivated imaginations with their ritualistic beliefs and codes of conduct.

Typically, the true samurai was born into a family committed to preserving its lineage and traditions, although some individuals ascended through merit and service to join this elite class. The history of the samurai is long, complex, and fascinating, but this is not intended to be a history lesson. Rather, it is an exploration of the samurai mindset and the values that shaped their destinies.

At the heart of the samurai’s purpose was service—to faithfully serve their lord and protect the people and lands under their care. Many samurai earned great respect through their unwavering commitment to a code of conduct that demanded compassion, understanding, integrity, and sacrifice. The samurai were not only skilled with the sword but also with the pen, brush, and spoken word. Education, self-cultivation, and reverence for life were considered essential qualities. This balance between martial ability and personal refinement formed the essence of the true samurai.

Does the samurai still exist today? In a sense, yes. While the modern samurai may no longer carry a katana or wear the attire of a bygone era, the spirit of the samurai endures in those who uphold the ethical principles and traditions passed down through various disciplines of budō. Although these teachings have evolved to fit the modern world, they have retained the core essence of the warrior spirit and the enduring virtues of humanity.

Today’s samurai preserve these traditions through their dedication to protecting life, promoting peace, and cultivating harmony in a world where human nature has changed little over the centuries. They share their knowledge, experiences, and teachings to help others improve their lives and character. The feudal domains of the past have given way to a broader vision—one that seeks to foster understanding, cooperation, and universal harmony.

Those who choose to follow the path of Bushidō make a lifelong commitment to personal growth and the pursuit of enlightenment. While they may appear detached from conventional expectations, they have the same needs, desires, hopes, and dreams as anyone else. What distinguishes them is their willingness to make profound sacrifices in service to something greater than themselves.

The modern samurai strives to become a servant of humanity, embodying virtues such as humility, grace, sincerity, honor, righteousness, courtesy, courage, and respect. These principles are not merely ideals but qualities cultivated through daily practice and self-reflection. Together, they shape the character and heart of the samurai.

Many martial arts traditions continue to give dedicated practitioners opportunities to explore the deeper essence of Bushidō, even within a modern culture filled with distractions and competing values. Through disciplined training and sincere study, individuals can discover that the true legacy of the samurai lies not in warfare, but in the lifelong pursuit of character, wisdom, and service to others.

A time to Reflect...

 

Unfettered and Alone: A Samurai's Journey

Unfettered and alone upon his journey, a samurai wanders in search of his destiny. Bound by a calling to serve, he comes upon an isolated stream deep within an unknown forest. There, he hears the alluring sound of water cascading in an endless flow, its voice both soothing and timeless.

After bathing in the cool, refreshing waters, the enemy that stalks his soul begins to reveal itself. It does not emerge from the shadows of the forest, but from the depths of his own heart. This enemy constantly tugs at his conscience, challenging his resolve and questioning his purpose. It is the adversary that dwells within.

As he enters mokusō—a state of quiet meditation—he listens to the forest speak through its countless inhabitants. The rustling leaves, the songs of distant birds, and the whispers carried upon the earth's breath blend into a symphony of nature. Their voices strengthen him, nourishing the spirit that drives him onward upon his eternal journey through life. In this sacred stillness, he reflects upon the battles he has fought and the lessons they have bestowed.

His path has crossed with many others. Some encounters brought friendship and wisdom, while others left scars that time can never fully erase. Yet these are the battles that kindle the heart, forging bonds, memories, and character. Every struggle, even those ending in victory, has claimed a small part of him. Such is the burden he carries along the winding road of life—a burden accepted without complaint, for it is the price of growth and understanding.

Today, however, he will rest.

He will complete the way of misogi, the ritual of purification. Standing beneath the spray of a waterfall, he draws his sword and prepares himself for spiritual cleansing. Water crashes around him as he becomes fully present, mind and body united in a single purpose.

Then he cuts.

The blade moves with absolute precision, slicing through the air with unwavering intent. With each strike, a demon within him falls. These demons are manifestations of fear, doubt, pride, anger, and attachment—shadows born from the imperfections of the human spirit. They can only be banished through discipline, sincerity, and repeated acts of self-mastery.

Each cut is made from the heart.

As the sword sings through the air, the defeated demons dissolve into swirling fragments of light, carried away by the mist and flowing water. With every movement, his spirit becomes lighter and his purpose clearer.

Tonight, he will sleep beneath a canopy of stars, knowing he has completed the ritual of cleansing and found peace for another day. Tomorrow, the lone samurai will continue his journey, leaving behind a legacy of harmony, wisdom, and compassion for others to discover. Through reflection and purification, he has gained a deeper understanding of his destiny and renewed his commitment to serve with honor.

Perhaps there is a samurai within each of us.

We all possess a path to follow—a destiny to serve, protect, and seek enlightenment in our own way. We should not fear the road that has been prepared by those who walked before us. Instead, we should walk it with humility and gratitude, confronting our inner enemies with courage and conviction.

By overcoming the darkness within ourselves, we help create a safer and brighter path for those who follow.

This is the way of the samurai.

Sensu (Fan)

 

The Sensu in Aikido Training

The Sensu is sometimes regarded as an unusual item within Aikido practice. Why, one might ask, has such a simple personal accessory as a folding fan become a familiar sight in certain Aikido classes and demonstrations?

To begin with, it is important to distinguish the Sensu from the military fan known as the Tessen. The Tessen was often reinforced with metal and, in the hands of a skilled practitioner, could serve as a formidable weapon. Some examples were specifically designed for combat and were capable of inflicting serious injury.

The Sensu discussed here is the traditional folding fan made from bamboo and silk. For centuries, these elegant fans have been carried by both men and women throughout East Asia. They have appeared in countless forms, ranging from simple everyday items to highly decorative works of art. Their delicate appearance often makes it difficult for people to imagine them having any place within martial arts training.

Yet Aikido has never been solely concerned with the use of weapons. At its heart lie principles of movement, timing, awareness, balance, and harmonious blending of energy. The flowing, circular nature of Aikido practice lends itself remarkably well to the use of the Sensu, making it a valuable training aid rather than merely a decorative accessory.

Training with the Sensu encourages fluid movement and heightened awareness. It helps practitioners develop precision, coordination, posture, and an understanding of distance (ma-ai). The fan also serves as an extension of intent, allowing students to explore how movement originates from the centre and projects outward through the body. Many practitioners discover that Sensu training introduces a degree of freedom and expression that is difficult to appreciate until experienced firsthand.

Unfortunately, the Sensu is sometimes dismissed as overly delicate or lacking martial value. Such views often arise from appearance rather than practical experience. Budō teaches us to look beyond outward form and to recognise the value of any training method that contributes to technical development and personal growth.

Although the Sensu is not intended to replace conventional martial arts weapons, it can be surprisingly versatile. In its open position, the fan may be used to draw attention, distract, or momentarily obscure an opponent's vision. When closed, it can be employed similarly to a baton, assisting with deflections, controls, strikes, or pressure-point applications. Practitioners familiar with tanbō techniques often find the transition to Sensu training both natural and enjoyable.

Even the act of opening the fan can have practical significance. The distinctive snapping sound when it opens sharply can create a momentary distraction or psychological interruption. The sound itself can vary from crisp and forceful to soft and subtle, reflecting the balance between firmness and adaptability that characterises many traditional martial arts.

One disappointment is that relatively few dojos incorporate Sensu training into their regular curriculum. More commonly, the fan appears only during demonstrations, where its graceful movements add visual appeal. Nevertheless, interest in Sensu training has grown in recent years, particularly among practitioners in Europe who have explored its potential as both a training aid and a means of studying movement principles. Inspired by these developments, some British aikidoka have begun incorporating the Sensu more regularly into their own practice.

It should always be remembered, however, that the Sensu is merely a tool. It cannot transform poor technique into good technique, nor can it compensate for a lack of understanding. Like any training aid, its value depends entirely upon the skill, dedication, and attitude of the practitioner.

Those wishing to acquire a Sensu may find that traditional bamboo-and-silk fans are not always readily available and may need to be imported from Japan or China. Care should also be taken when considering metal versions sold through some martial arts suppliers. While visually impressive, they are often less suitable for the type of training described here.

Metal fans tend to be heavier, less responsive, and more cumbersome than traditional Sensu. They may also become slippery during practice, particularly when perspiration affects the metal surfaces. This can reduce handling efficiency and can create safety concerns if the fan is dropped during training.

Ultimately, the Sensu reminds us that martial arts are not solely about power or force. Some of the most valuable lessons can be found in the simplest of objects. Through the humble folding fan, practitioners can deepen their understanding of movement, harmony, awareness, and the subtle principles that lie at the heart of Aikido.

The silk-and-bamboo folding fan (ordinary sensu) is often used in Aikido for somewhat different reasons than the heavier martial tessen (iron fan).

Symbolic and pedagogical tool

In many dojos, the fan is not treated primarily as a weapon. Instead, it is used to teach:

• Extension of ki (intent and awareness): The fan extends the line of the hand beyond the fingertips, making direction and focus more visible.
• Ma-ai (distance): Because the fan projects forward from the hand, students become more conscious of proper spacing.
• Center-led movement: A light fan reveals unnecessary tension. If the body is moving correctly from the center, the fan appears stable and controlled.
• Precision: Small deviations in angle become obvious when holding a fan.

Connection to etiquette and traditional culture

Historically, the folding fan was an everyday object in Japan. In some traditional martial settings, it was used:

• During formal demonstrations.
• As a marker of rank or ceremonial status.
• In seated etiquette (reiho), a fan could be placed before oneself during bows or formal interactions.

Some Aikido instructors preserve these traditions as part of the art's cultural heritage.

Safe substitute for a weapon

A fan can represent:

• A sword.
• A knife.
• The line of an entering strike.

Because it is light and harmless, students can explore weapon-related principles without swinging a wooden sword in confined spaces.

Developing sensitivity rather than power

The ordinary bamboo fan is fragile. If a practitioner relies on force or grips too tightly, it quickly becomes apparent. This encourages:

• Relaxation.
• Fine motor control.
• Coordinated whole-body movement.

These qualities are central to many interpretations of Aikido.

Why specifically silk and bamboo?

Traditional fans are:

• Very light, making subtle errors easier to detect.
• Flexible, discouraging forceful impacts.
• Common cultural objects, which aligns with the idea that martial principles should apply through everyday movement rather than only through weapons.

So when you see a silk/bamboo fan in Aikido, it is often less about learning fan fighting and more about using a simple traditional object to make principles such as alignment, extension, timing, awareness, and etiquette easier to understand.

Shiatsu

 

Although the syllabus requires some form of recognized first-aid training, everyone should take personal responsibility for gaining adequate first-aid knowledge. Organizations such as St John Ambulance and the Red Cross offer and promote first-aid courses. Anyone aspiring to become a teacher is strongly advised to obtain a qualification.

No one is suggesting that teachers need a medical degree, but they should have sufficient knowledge to handle emergencies that may arise in the dojo. It is important to understand that legal responsibilities and liabilities exist whether a person is trained in first aid. If a teacher has no first-aid knowledge or qualifications, their credibility may be questioned. On the other hand, a teacher who provides first aid may be praised for helping, but could still face legal action if the injured person is dissatisfied with the outcome. Having a first-aid qualification does not automatically grant the right to act in every situation. The key message is to be prepared, but also cautious.

Many people prefer to study more traditional methods such as shiatsu and katsu. Although these practices are not officially recognized by the British Medical Association, they continue to attract followers who are interested in alternative medicine. They are not intended to replace conventional first aid, but rather to explore the holistic ideals of budo.

Shiatsu, in particular, has become popular within the martial arts community, and fortunately, it is available as a specialized branch of budo. Katsu is more closely associated with the art of resuscitation and is practiced less frequently than shiatsu. The word “shiatsu” literally means “finger pressure,” and it is far more than a simple massage. Shiatsu is used to address a wide range of ailments and symptoms and is often practiced as a preventative therapy. While it is not difficult to learn, a deeper understanding comes with greater commitment and practice. Shiatsu can become a lifelong study, although practitioners of Aikido and related arts may find its principles easier to understand.

The origins of shiatsu are linked to ancient Chinese medicine and, more specifically, to acupuncture, though no needles are used. Traditional Chinese medicine teaches that the body contains meridians through which energy flows. By applying pressure to specific tsubo (pressure points), this energy can be balanced to promote health and well-being. These meridians are believed to connect with the body’s major organs and systems. Through careful observation and diagnosis, practitioners aim to identify and treat symptoms. Shiatsu has been applied to a broad range of conditions, including respiratory, emotional, and stress-related problems, and many practitioners believe it has produced positive results over time.

So, what qualifications are required to practice shiatsu? The simple answer is that, in principle, anyone can learn it. Provided a person is receptive, sincere, and willing to learn, there is no reason why they cannot practice shiatsu. At its core, shiatsu is about giving selflessly and building trust and rapport with the receiver, or patient. The practitioner is traditionally referred to as the “giver” because of this supportive role.

Shiatsu should ideally be practiced in a warm, comfortable environment free from distractions, where the receiver can feel relaxed and at ease. Soft music is often used to create a calm atmosphere. Practitioners commonly prepare themselves mentally and physically through meditation and stretching exercises before beginning treatment. Traditionally, this preparation is believed to help open the practitioner’s meridians and improve the flow of energy. The receiver usually lies face down while the giver kneels beside them to begin treatment.

The giver may begin by focusing on the back or head, as these areas often help the receiver relax and prepare for the rest of the session. Pressure may be applied using the fingers, palms, and other parts of the hands, but care must always be taken, especially when working with elderly people or children, whose bones may be fragile or still developing. Pressure should never cause pain or discomfort, and extra caution is required when working around joints such as the knees, spine, and neck.

During treatment, the giver may attempt to synchronize their breathing with the receiver, creating a sense of concentration and connection. Every movement is deliberate, yet the overall experience should feel natural and relaxed. Practitioners sometimes report feeling physically tired or emotionally drained after a session.

From an ethical standpoint, shiatsu should present no problems. It has no sexual element and can be performed fully clothed. As long as basic guidelines are followed, it should not cause physical or psychological harm. Again, shiatsu and other forms of natural healthcare are not intended to replace modern medicine. However, some people believe society has become overly dependent on medication, which may have harmful long-term effects.

For those interested in the subject, attending shiatsu courses whenever possible is highly recommended. Many manuals and publications are available and can provide valuable information, but practical experience remains the best way to develop real understanding and skill.

Shiatsu is not a miracle cure, nor is it intended to replace professional medical advice or treatment. However, it can be highly beneficial as a preventative therapy and may, in some cases, help to relieve pain, tension, and stress.

As discussed throughout this guide, the techniques and points described form the basic foundations for understanding and practising shiatsu. For those who wish to deepen their knowledge, a variety of courses and training programmes are available.

Only practitioners with appropriate training, advanced knowledge, and practical experience should attempt to treat individuals with diagnosed medical conditions.

Above all, shiatsu should be an enjoyable and rewarding experience for both giver and receiver

Begin with the receiver lying face down. Kneel beside their hips and place your nearest hand gently on the small of their back. This is referred to as the “mother hand”, as it helps establish a grounding connection and creates a supportive energetic circuit. With your other hand, gently hold and lightly squeeze the receiver’s hand for several moments.

This pause allows both the giver and receiver time to settle, build trust, and establish rapport before beginning the sequence of movements outlined below.

Back:

1. Diagonal stretch

2. Lumbar stretch

3. Palm pressure down the spine.

4. Thumb pressure down the spine

Hips:

1. Pressing the sacral holes

2. Squeezing hips

3. Elbow pressure down on the hips

Back and outside of legs:

1. Palm pressure on the back of the leg

2. Knee pressure on the back leg

3. Press the ankle tsubo’s (Achilles tendon)

4. Three-way stretch.

5. Palm pressure on the side of the leg

6. Press ankle tusbo

7. Walking on soles

8. Press tsubo on the sole

9. Massage the heel

10. Pinching outside of the foot

11. Pull toe

12. Slap toe

13. Pound sole

Back of shoulders:

1. Thumb pressure on top of the shoulders

2. Elbow between blades

3. Rotate shoulder blades

4. Foot pressure on the shoulder

Receiver Positioning (Supine)
The receiver should lie comfortably on their back, with the head supported if needed, using a folded towel or cushion. Arms should rest in a natural, relaxed position by the sides with palms facing upward or inward. Legs should be extended comfortably, with feet relaxed and allowed to fall naturally outward.

Before beginning, allow the receiver a moment to settle. Encourage a few slow, gentle breaths to help them relax and compose themselves if needed. Front of shoulders and neck:

1. Lean on shoulders

2. Press along ribs

3. Neck squeeze

4. Circle the sides of the neck

5. Stretch neck

Head and face:

1. Run hands through hair

2. Hair pull

3. Massage the ears

4. Press the top of the head points

5. Eyes sequence

6. Temple sequence

7. Nose and mouth sequence

Arm and ankles:

1. Palm pressure along the upper arm

2. Grasping the upper arm

3. Palm pressure along the forearm

4. Pulling fingers

5. Pressing “Great Eliminator.”

 Hara:

1. Lower hara

2. Upper hara

3. Rocking hara

                                                                                     

Front and inside of leg:

1. Palm pressure on the inside of the thigh

2. Heel of hand pressure down inside the shin

3. Palm pressure on the front of the thigh

4. Rotate the kneecap

5. Pressing “Stomach 36” tsubo

6. Pressing down outside of the shin

7. Stretch Foot Forward

8. Stretch Foot Back.

Because Shiatsu can be performed in a variety of positions, the receiver may need to sit or lie in whichever posture is most comfortable and appropriate for their needs. The following sequence is most effectively carried out with the receiver in a kneeling position. Ensure they remain comfortable throughout, as older individuals or those with limited mobility may find kneeling for extended periods difficult.

The giver should position themselves behind the receiver in a stable yet relaxed posture. Rest the forearms lightly on the receiver’s shoulders with the fingers pointing downward, then lean in smoothly to apply pressure through the thumbs onto the shoulders. Next, use the side of the knee to apply gentle pressure along the back, followed by open-palmed stretches across the shoulders. Place the palms on the shoulder blades and carefully rotate the shoulders to encourage release and mobility.

The receiver then interlocks their fingers and raises their arms overhead while the giver gently stretches the spine using the side of the knee for support and leverage.

The giver should then move to one side of the receiver and kneel. Place one hand at the base of the skull and the other on the forehead, then very gently rotate the head, taking great care. Many of the arm stretches described above can also be performed from this side position.

If kneeling is uncomfortable or unsuitable, the receiver may instead sit on a stool.