“The lines of the posture thus formed express calm dignity, balanced stability, passivity, unconcerned ease, peace and tranquility, known in philosophical terms as ‘action in inaction,’ full of potentialities.”
- Gunji Koizumi, Judo 8th Dan
How we stand says a lot about us. The source of our ki (氣) or “energy” is located in our hara (腹) or “abdomen” which is the lower one-third of our abdomen. When we stand up straight with good posture, we assume shizentai (自然体 ) or a “natural body” and it’s with this posture which enables the energy from our center to travel up our spines and move throughout our bodies. From this “balanced” place, we can efficiently deal with or redirect any incoming force. In the martial arts, we are always trying to defend our seichusen (正中線) or “centerline” and attack or control our opponent’s. Controlling the opponent’s centerline means being able to dictate their posture and affect their balance which will inhibit their body’s ability to use energy efficiently or appropriately which will cause them to fail. Defending and controlling our own center enables us to remain calm and appropriately deal with any attack and ultimately be successful. Anyone who has given a piggyback ride to someone who was too heavy which caused them to fall down understands this principle. When talking about posture, Furuya Sensei said, “Sometimes, we forget that Aikido is training the mind and spirit, as well as the body.” Standing up straight and moving with good posture usually means that our bodies are balanced and our minds are calm. We can change the orientation of our power just by focusing on how we stand. Likewise, we can change how our day is going just by sitting or standing up straight, lowering our shoulders, balancing our hips, lifting our heads and taking a breath. We change because our posture changes. Understanding this, we can see that how we stand is a reflection of our inner state.
Today’s goal: When things go sideways, focus on your breathing and your posture.