I began practicing Aikido a few months ago and, to my surprise, fell in love with it. This beautifully crafted film explains its appeal and its paradoxes: to do this martial art, one needs to remain relaxed and centered, not tense or rigid. Watching Paul Linden Sensei demonstrate that paradox with a student brought that lesson home in seconds. Through interviews with a wide range of practitioners, the film also explores how Aikido is a non-competitive path of learning, growth and development, one suitable for all ages and bodies, even if a person doesn't aspire to earn a black belt. To practice Aikido is to cultivate awareness of oneself in motion and how one connects to another; it's a multi-layered exploration and discovery process for those willing to remain open. I hope the film encourages those curious about Aikido to try a class, and inspires those who have started along this path to continue.
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