Makotokan Aikido
Dojo etiquette |
| by the late EWJ Stratton Sensei Dojo etiquette is very important. It is more important in Aikido as it enhances a harmonious atmosphere, and we must remember the meaning of Aikido (Harmony, Spirit, Way). It is also a way to self improvement. I think the word we are really looking for is COURTESY. Courtesy in the Dojo really means thinking of others before you think of yourself, and not just in the Dojo but at all times. There are, of course, certain good manners which are peculiar to a Dojo alone; they are as follows: Always bow to the shomen when entering and leaving a Dojo. This shows your respect and thoughts for Aikido and the many masters that have gone before, and for their efforts in making Aikido what it is today. Bow to the teacher before and after practice, and when he/she instructs you personally thank him/her again. Always kneel and maintain a correct posture when the teacher is demonstrating to the class. To a westerner this may be painful at first, but if one concentrates on the teacher rather than the pain, with practice, you will not be aware of the pain. Show respect to your partner and thank him for practicing with you. Remember that you are practicing with them as two people in tune as one, and by this, mutual self improvement is the outcome. Keep an open mind always and remember that whatever his rank you should be able to learn something from him. Do not use Aikido sessions as a time to show your strength against that of the person you are training with. While you practice to become strong, learn to avoid fighting as this is the true aim of martial arts. Learn to throw your opponent and enjoy it, while being thrown enjoy that too, as two people working as one in learning the correct techniques will progress quickly. The martial arts begin and end with courtesy, not in practice alone, but in heart and mind as well. Always respect the teacher who taught you. Do not become angry. If you become angry it shows that your mind has wandered from the single spot in the lower abdomen. Anger is something to be ashamed of in Aikido. KNOW that he who is easily angered loses courage at important moments. Do not criticise other martial arts. Speak ill of others and it will surely come back to you. Do whatever you do with conviction. Study thoroughly the principles of the Universe and practice it, and the Universe protects us. Real conviction comes from the belief that we are at one with the Universe. We must have the courage to say with Confucius, if I have an easy conscience, I dare to face an enemy of ten thousand. |