On Mastering Aikido takes the reader on a journey through the world of the martial art known as Aikido and the teachings of Daniel Linden Sensei and his master, Mitsugi Saotome. Written for advanced students of the art – those who are already conversant with the fundamental teachings – Linden Sensei crosses the line often between teaching and entertaining with humorous, touching stories of years of training in the world’s most difficult martial way. On Mastering Aikido consists of nine dialogs, an Introduction and Afterward. The dialogs are each devoted to one of the main principles of Aikido knowledge, what Linden Sensei refers to as the Eight Pillars of Aikido Wisdom. We discover a ninth in the Afterward, but as Linden says "It is almost impossible to attain." These dialogs are pleasant to read and clearly explain each of the principles in conversation between teacher and student and sometimes teacher to teacher. Interspersed are stories and anecdotes that bridge the gaps between times, attitudes and enlightenment. On Mastering Aikido applies as well to the study of Aikido as it does to yoga, karate, judo, basketball, tennis, tango or any activity that uses the human body as a tool. The book’s focus is on physical mastership and the rules which Linden Sensei lays down can be applied to any human endeavor. It was written to be read as a continuous effort, but each chapter can stand alone or it can be selected for specific interest. The overall effect is almost that of a novel as the reader is swept up in Shoshin Aikido Dojo while students are engaged in training, relaxing and work around the school. European journeys become travelogues as the dialog unfolds. The book is engaging, enjoyable, enlightening and humorous. In an age when most Martial Art books read like math textbooks, it is a rare find.

On Mastering Aikido

Sports & Outdoors

Lindén, Daniel

Mitsugi Saotome

Individual Sports

Linden Tree Press

<p>A Light on Transmission is the unique account of Mitsugi Saotome's personal experiences and development as a live-in student under Morihei Ueshiba, the Founder of Aikido. As one of the last surviving live-in students of the post war era, Saotome Sensei sheds an historically significant light on what it was like to learn from and live with one of the greatest martial artists and sages of modern times. The lessons and stories contained in this book provide a lovingly told window into a bygone era and will be of interest not only to Aikido practitioners and students of martial arts but to anyone taking up the question of how the highest levels of art and culture are passed from one generation to the next.</p>

A Light on Transmission

Cedar Forge Press

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Books by Mitsugi Saotome