Ki Aikido

A Virginia Ki Society Publication

Copyright 1989 J. Kirk Demaree/Virginia Ki Society

What is Aikido?

Aikido is a modern Japanese martial art which emphasizes blending with an attacker's energy in the performance of self-defense techniques. Since aikido blends with, rather than fights, the incoming energy, great strength and size is not a requirement to successfully utilize aikido techniques. Aikido students learn to "read" the emotional and physical energy of an attacker in order to facilitate the performance of techniques to defend against grabbing, choking, and striking attacks.

Ki Aikido, developed by Master Koichi Tohei, is a style of Aikido emphasizing the role of Ki energy in the performance of aikido techniques.

What is Ki Development?

Everyone has a type of inner energy which we call Ki. You may develop your Ki through a variety of activities. For example, Ki breathing is a type of meditative exercise in which one breathes in through the nose, inhaling deeply, then relesasing the air in a "hhhhaaaaaaa" sound as the air is expelled. By practicing Ki breathing a few minutes each day, you will develop strong Ki energy.

Aikido and Ki Development students learn a variety of physical excercises which promote Ki development, relaxation and a feeling of being centered, both mentally and physically. Remaining relaxed and centered in stressful situations is helpful not only in self-defense situations, but in daily life as well.

What is the Virginia Ki Society?

The Virginia Ki Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to teaching Ki Development and Ki Aikido in the style of Master Koichi Tohei. Classes in Ki Development and Ki-Aikido for adults are held daily at the VKS Merrifield dojo, Monday-Friday 7-9 pm, Saturday 9:30-11:30 am and Sunday 6:30-8:30pm. Children's classes are Tuesday and Thursday 6-7 pm and Saturday 4:00-5:15pm. VKS instructors also teach classes at the Fairfax county Park Authority recreation programs at Lee District, Wakefield, Mt. Vernon and Spring Hill Parks. For more information regarding VKS Ki Development and Aikido classes, call (703) 573-8843.

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