Never Rely On Technique

Aikido is an effective martial art. But we should always remember that technique is not 100% effective in all situations. How do we mitigate this deficiency?

First, never rely on technique. This sounds counterintuitive since we are practicing a martial art, but it is very true. Clarity of this principle will come with regular practice. Technique must be adjusted constantly if it is to be successful. It is never formulaic. Adaptation to the situation is the key.

Second, we must be present in the moment. Our mind should be focused on what is happening now. Not tomorrow, not yesterday, not an hour from now. By ensuring that our mind is focused on the present moment, we are open and connected to our environment and ready for whatever comes our way. There are situations that you can find yourself in that are very weak, one being the rear choke position for example. This is a very difficult position to get out of. If faced with it, here are a few things to remember:

-Relax. By tensing up, you make the situation worse and actually make your partners choke more effective. Relaxing also helps to keep your mind clear so you can think your way out of the situation, thus making your response more effective than an emotional and tense response.

-Keep moving. Move in a circular manner. Make yourself the center of the circle. This way your partner has a difficult time keeping up with you and thus a more difficult time maintaining the choke.

-Your first priority is to extricate yourself from the choke. The pin is second. If you can get the pin...great. If not, get out of the choke and get away from the situation of and prepare yourself for what might happen next.

-Atemi (strike) to the groin, head, foot, shin, etc is a last resort and should be used if the choke is exceptionally strong. The purpose of atemi is to distract your opponent's attention for that short time you need to extricate yourself, not to disable them.

Third, one should never allow themselves to get into this situation in the first place. This is done by being present in the moment, but by also developing sixth sense for danger. Do not worry too much about this now. This will naturally come with practice and developing a connection to your environment.

As I have talked about before, be open, present, and connected. Be open to new ideas and never become set in your ways. Be present in the moment. Life is happening "now". It is OK to plan, but do not live in the future or past. It will make your present life more difficult. Be connected to your environment. Understand and absorb what is going on around you. If you do not, you put yourself at risk.

One should practice these three things every day. Your aikido practice and your life will become much more fulfilling.