Author: Bret Gordon Quantum entanglement is the phenomenon of a group of particles being generated, interacting, or sharing spatial proximity in such a way that the quantum state of each particle of the group cannot be described independently of the state of the others, including when the particles are separated by a large distance. The University of Ottawa, as part of their research on this phenomenon, has been able to capture a visualization of the quantum entanglement of photons in real time (click here for article). Martial artists all over the world should be able to recognize the image presented by their research...
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Author: Bret Gordon Several months ago, I wrote an article entitled "Jujutsu Gives Form To Aiki" (click here) that was intended to be a standalone piece. However, I recently came across two Judo video clips that exemplified the point I was trying to make and so I want to expound upon it. Something stood out to me in both of these clips. If you watch the initial kuzushi (structural disruption), they are nearly identical to some of the aiki connection drills we teach in American Yoshinkan, followed by a more conventional technique to complete the throw.
Author: Bret Gordon
Anma (massage) and shiatsu (acupressure) are great ways to reduce tension in the body. The more tension you are able to drop, the more you are able to express power as well as absorb any force acting on you. Furthermore, shiatsu points are kyusho points. Any pressure point that can be used to inflict pain can be used to heal, and vice versa. Not to mention being able to soothe the pain from pressure point training means you can train them longer.
The necessity for sekkotsu (bone setting) in a Jujutsu system should be apparent, as knowing how to relocate dislocated joints and triage other serious injuries that may occur from joint manipulation and throws. However, the connection between Reiki and the martial arts may seem a little more obscure. Reiki and martial arts may seem like two vastly different disciplines at first glance, but upon closer examination, their relationship reveals a profound symbiosis rooted in the principles of energy, mindfulness, and self-awareness. Both share a common thread of enhancing the practitioner's connection to their own bodies and the world around them. Author: Bret Gordon ![]() So far in this article series, we've explored both Kiko and Reiki (with an emphasis on the latter). In part 1 (click here) I focused on the benefits of Reiki for physical healing, and in part 2 (click here) we dove into the the emotional and spiritual aspects of Reiki, including why it works, how it can be dangerous, and the Scriptural justifications for its usage. Part 3 will relate all of this back to the martial arts, specifically Aiki Jujutsu, but there is a significant aspect of the spiritual side of Reiki I feel must be addressed first. To summarize, spiritual healing through Reiki is not meant to provide salvation or the forgiveness of sins. We established that healing through touch is an ancient form of medicine used by Christ Himself, and that by gaining a true understanding of Ki rather than a mystical one, we can begin to correlate this instinctual practice with commonly accepted forms of medicine and therapy. All of that being said, there is another part of traditional Reiki practice that I will concede is largely contradictory to Christian faith. During his lifetime, Dr. Usui revealed four symbols that "aid" the practitioner in administering the healing touch (pictured above). These symbols were meant to be drawn in the mind, or with the hand, when performing a Reiki session. Further, he advocated the practices of Jumon/Shingon, and Kotodama. In essence, these practices center around the ritual use of vocalization. Author: Bret Gordon ![]() In the first installment of this series (click here) I described the practices of Kiko and Reiki as modalities for physical health, but as every martial artist is familiar with, we train the spirit, mind, and body. As such, our healing practices should address the same. Reiki especially is often used to promote emotional and spiritual healing, but this is where things can go wrong or even be dangerous, and it's this aspect of Reiki that I'd like to address today. Please forgive me, as this may be one of my longest articles to date, but I feel it's necessary to do justice to the subject. Electricity is one of the four elements that are collectively referred to as Ki, and the human body creates its own electromagnetic field which Dr. Ann Baldwin, a professor of physiology at the University of Arizona's College of Medicine, refers to as the "biofield." On a physical level, Reiki works through the interaction between two human electromagnetic fields which guide bodily functions. According to this article from the Institute of Integrative Health, Reiki was better than a placebo in activating the parasympathetic nervous system, as measured by reduced heart rate, reduced blood pressure, and increased heart rate variability. The article also states that Reiki is more effective than a placebo for patients with chronic health conditions for reducing pain, anxiety, and depression, and improving self-esteem and quality of life. Multiple studies, like this pilot study performed in 2017, find that recipients of Reiki often show significant reductions in pain, blood pressure, respiration rate, and anxiety. Another study focusing on cancer patients that had completed chemotherapy found that fatigue decreased within the Reiki treatment group over the course of treatment, and quality of life showed significant improvements. Daily symptom monitoring before and after each treatment session demonstrated significant decreases in tiredness, pain, and anxiety (click here for source). With numerous studies and testimonials of how Reiki has helped people struggling with depression, anxiety, and psychological trauma, why would you not seek it out? Author: Bret Gordon ![]() For as long as codified martial systems have existed, and probably longer, some of the most prominent martial artists have also been healers and physicians. It's only natural that those who study how to destroy the body become experts in how to fix it. In our system of American Yoshinkan Aiki Jujutsu, the study of Kappo (healing methods) is essential to becoming an instructor. Injuries are an inevitable part of training, and having the ability to tend to them quickly makes a drastic change in the overall outcome of the situation. Beyond the normal CPR and First Aid certifications every martial artist should have, we teach the following as part of our Kappo training:
Author: Bret Gordon ![]() In the past, we've explored the various explanations of aiki used both in our system of American Yoshinkan Aiki Jujutsu and the internal community at large. In part 2 of the "Is This Aiki?" mini-series (click here to read), I included generalized definitions of common terms such as:
Author: Bret Gordon ![]() My last several articles have been dedicated to defining aiki as we use it in American Yoshinkan Aiki Jujutsu. However, aiki is not a concept unique to the myriad of systems that ultimately stem from Daito Ryu. While Takeda Sokaku (the founder or rejuvenator of Daito Ryu, depending what you believe) may have been the first to attribute this concept to a physical, conditioned state of being, the origins of aiki go back much farther and I'd like to briefly dive into that history. We first see written accounts of aiki, often written 相氣, as early as the late 1600s, and was used to describe the moment in time when two swordsmen would find themselves with the mutual intention of attacking at the identical time and space. It was taught as something to be avoided, as this could only result in mutual death if they proceeded with their attack. Fast forward to the late 1890s, and the book Budo Hiketsu: Aiki No Jutsu was published by Kondo Yoshizu, where aiki was described as the highest level of mastery in Japanese martial arts. It's unclear when and where the shift in perspective happened, with aiki once being something to avoid and now defined as the pinnacle of Budo, but this interpretation would significantly influence the development of the aiki arts. Author: Bret Gordon ![]() In my latest mini-series entitled "Is This Aiki?" (click here for part 1), I mentioned a concept in internal martial arts known as the Six Harmonies. Originally derived from Taijiquan, the Six Harmonies are:
The three external harmonies describe how to move the body as a cohesive unit to express coordinated power (集中力 shuchu ryoku). The three internal harmonies describe the relationship between your intent and your actual, physical movement. Together, the Six Harmonies are the key to balancing In (Yin) and Yo (Yang) in the body, and ultimately creating what is known as the aiki body. However, because the Six Harmonies are largely a Chinese concept, practitioners of Japanese internal arts may mistakenly overlook them. In the image above of Takeda Tokimune, son of Takeda Sokaku and the late Soke of mainline Daito Ryu Aiki Jujutsu, we can clearly see the kanji for Jusoku Rikugo 充塞六合, "Fulfill the Six Harmonies" (written in the classical manner of right-to-left). The more I research into the history and training methods of both our system of American Yoshinkan Aiki Jujutsu and our related/parent aiki arts, it has become clear that the development of Chinese and Japanese internal martial arts were more intertwined than we are led to believe. While the scroll displayed in Takeda sensei's dojo is the only written reference I have seen from an official Daito Ryu source to the Six Harmonies, taking into account the ryu's adherence to secrecy and obscurity, it would not surprise me if like the very nature of aiki itself, it was hidden in plain sight. Author: Steven Hatfield ![]() In the intricate world of martial arts, understanding Aiki transcends mere physical techniques; it's a philosophy, a principle, and an art that requires profound comprehension. So let's delve into the depths of Aiki shall we? As I share my opinion on correcting and expanding the views and definitions of aiki and its applications. 1) Defining Aiki: Blending, Not Clashing** Aiki encapsulates the idea of oneness or blending amidst combat. In aikido, it elevates the notion of blending rather than clashing, emphasizing harmony over confrontation. Described as "awase" within aikido, blending involves joining with the opponent's rhythm and intent to find the optimal position and timing to apply force. Aiki practitioners understand the nuanced difference between 'blending' and 'giving way,' training to subtly 'take the line' of attack and control it. This principle remains consistent across various Aiki arts, showcasing small variations and adjustments. |