Why Aikido?
I've been asking myself that question alot over the last few months as I was considering aikido classes. I'm not really sure why I wanted to take it to begin with, but all the studying of an art I knew nothing about sparked an interest I could not ignore. So after much deliberation, I signed up. I jumped headfirst into something that is completely out of my element.
It's been about two weeks and 5 classes later, I already feel a change in my attitude and stress levels. I am used to being in *control*, or at least I perceive that I am in control most of the time. I admit, it's difficult for me to let go. (that was actually on my last work review)
So I jump into aikido classes, and suddenly I'm not in control. I go to the dojo and let complete strangers throw me around. I put my trust in people I don't really know, and try not to feel like a complete idiot along the way. I've had an initial frustration with my inability to "catch on" in my normal fashion, but that frustration melts away when I step through the door of the dojo.
I've been overly stressed these last two weeks, what with my work review and Secret's accident. When I go to the dojo, bowing as I enter, it's like suddenly the outside world doesn't matter. My thoughts focus solely on learning aikido.
What I love about aikido is the focus on harmony. Today at work, something happened which would have normally sent me into a fit of rage, especially considering the recent stress I've been under... but today it was different. I didn't *feel* like being angry. I didn't resist or fight. I found myself completely at ease and willing to consider other opprotunities for conflict resolution.
Now, I'm not saying that I've reached some ultimate stage of enlightenment, but aikido is opening up a new way of thinking for me.
When I practice, I don't have my typical store of knowledge. I am learning along with my fellow students-- I absolutely love it. I feel more energized, more confident and most importantly, more peaceful.
For the first time it a LONG time, I've felt at peace. I've felt like a child almost.
I went to the park today with my friend Dena, and I was suddenly overcome with the urge let go. I turned several cartwheels in the grass, skipped along the path and sang outloud.
Am I saying that aikido is the answer to all of life's little problems? No... but it has certainly helped improve my attitude. Even my store manager noticed today.
I think if I continue to feel this good, I'll never let aikido go. Could this be beginner's enthusiasm? Yes, it very well could be. Do I care? Not really. I'm happy for the present, and that's what matters.
Liz
Who is actually looking forward to work tomorrow.
It's been about two weeks and 5 classes later, I already feel a change in my attitude and stress levels. I am used to being in *control*, or at least I perceive that I am in control most of the time. I admit, it's difficult for me to let go. (that was actually on my last work review)
So I jump into aikido classes, and suddenly I'm not in control. I go to the dojo and let complete strangers throw me around. I put my trust in people I don't really know, and try not to feel like a complete idiot along the way. I've had an initial frustration with my inability to "catch on" in my normal fashion, but that frustration melts away when I step through the door of the dojo.
I've been overly stressed these last two weeks, what with my work review and Secret's accident. When I go to the dojo, bowing as I enter, it's like suddenly the outside world doesn't matter. My thoughts focus solely on learning aikido.
What I love about aikido is the focus on harmony. Today at work, something happened which would have normally sent me into a fit of rage, especially considering the recent stress I've been under... but today it was different. I didn't *feel* like being angry. I didn't resist or fight. I found myself completely at ease and willing to consider other opprotunities for conflict resolution.
Now, I'm not saying that I've reached some ultimate stage of enlightenment, but aikido is opening up a new way of thinking for me.
When I practice, I don't have my typical store of knowledge. I am learning along with my fellow students-- I absolutely love it. I feel more energized, more confident and most importantly, more peaceful.
For the first time it a LONG time, I've felt at peace. I've felt like a child almost.
I went to the park today with my friend Dena, and I was suddenly overcome with the urge let go. I turned several cartwheels in the grass, skipped along the path and sang outloud.
Am I saying that aikido is the answer to all of life's little problems? No... but it has certainly helped improve my attitude. Even my store manager noticed today.
I think if I continue to feel this good, I'll never let aikido go. Could this be beginner's enthusiasm? Yes, it very well could be. Do I care? Not really. I'm happy for the present, and that's what matters.
Liz
Who is actually looking forward to work tomorrow.
posted by Liz at 2/22/2005 10:55:00 PM
1 Comments:
Oh wow. This is exactly where I am and how I feel. I'm at about my 3rd week and going tomorrow to my 6th class. And even though I've been sore and hurting for the past three days since my last class I am eagerly waiting to go again tomorrow.Aikido definitely brings a peaceful mental state to the fore.
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