The First Few Years
To begin the study of Aikido is to begin a long and exciting journey with yourself and the art. As you progress, the journey may take a different path, which will reflect the changing of your goals over time.
Long term practice
Like any art, it requires dedication and persistence in order for you to gain maximum benefit from it. It is a journey that can last a lifetime, as you can constantly hone your skills and learn about yourself whilst in an environment which encourages and allows this to occur. Aikido Shudokan emphasises the basics in order to develop a strong foundation, which takes time to build but allows a student to progress more easily when they reach an advanced level. In addition, your goals will evolve over time, and as this happens, your journey changes direction but the growth obtained through studying the art continues. As such, anyone can learn Aikido as each individual’s goals are different and Aikido allows for this.
Stages of Mastery
- SHU – learning stage, Year 3-6 (blackbelt usually attained in this time)
- HA – breaking the form, learning how it works, beginning to apply it naturally, Year 6-10
- RI – moving away from the form, approaching true mastery, Year 20 +
Attributes to Develop as a Student
Junanshin (flexibility of mind) which is composed of patience, trust, humility, a supple mind and openness.
Mushin (no mind) refers to an inner emptiness, which is what is left after eliminating the unnecessary as created by the ego.
Focus, to stay present in the moment and disregard any distractions.
Mixing & Matching
- Most competent martial artists agree, it is best to become grounded in one art before adding more
- Some arts are incompatible, choose carefully