Ueshiba Kisshomaru. Art of Aikido. Principles and Essential Techniques

Tokyo , New York , London : Kodansha International ., — 2004 . — 178 p . — ISBN: 4-7700-2945-4 This book was composed by Kisshomaru Ueshiba , Morihei's son and successor as the Second Aikido Doshu (the person who embodies the spirit of Aikido as inherited from the founder and is its living symbol ) . Morihei himself taught Aikido in archaic , esoteric language , and limited his instruction to a select few . In order to introduce Aikido to the rest of the world , his son simplified its philosophy and arranged the techniques so that it would be possible for any serious trainee to practice this martial art . Aikido is now practiced in eighty - five foreign countries - a testament to Kisshomaru's achievement . The Aikido ideal of " refining one's mind and body to foster a spirit of harmony " has obviously struck a common chord among the peoples of the world . This book is a compilation of Kisshomaru's writings on Aikido . It will provide the reader with deep insight into both the spiritual and technical dimensions of Aikido , and explain its central features - ki energy , breathing methods , posture , among others . The book is detailed with many dynamic photos , depicting the author , and his son Moriteru ( present Doshu , and the author of The Aikido master Course ) , carrying out the techniques . It is a work that all Aikido practitioners , from beginner to master , will want to acquire