Aikido: My Spiritual Journey - Hardcover

"Books by the early generations of Aikido teachers are getting rarer as these teachers, regrettably, continue to pass from the scene. A book by one of the early pioneers, who had in-depth personal experience with Aikido founder Morihei Ueshiba, is even rarer. . . . this book offers a picture of the early part of Aikido history: its practitioners and its founder. . . . Aikido: My Spiritual Journey is by Yoshinkan Aikido founder Gozo Shioda. . . . The book contains fascinating stories from Shioda Sensei's life. It also has detailed and helpful insights on Aikido training and many stories of his time with Aikido founder Morihei Ueshiba. There are many well displayed historical and training photographs. Kodansha has done its usual good job of high quality book design." - Aikido Journal (online) "A book worth noting. . . Kodansha USA, the publisher of so many great books including many about Aikido, has just released Gozo Shioda's 'Aikido - My Spiritual Journey'. . . . I can tell you it is chock full of great photos of the 9th degree Master Aikido Sensei, many of them showing him 'in action.' It also includes a clear description of the heart of his insights into Aikido - including the mental, spiritual and physical aspects of the Art." -Examiner.com

Offers an overview of the key elements of Aikido, including breath power, focused power, and the power of the centre line. In this title, the author relates moving, personal anecdotes about Ueshiba and imparts what he learned from his mentor. In his comprehensive autobiography, legendary Aikido grandmaster Gozo Shioda tells of his exciting life. Born in Tokyo in 1915, Shioda excelled as a student of Morihei Ueshiba, the founder of modern Aikido. In 1954, Shioda entered the All Japan Martial Arts Exhibition, and won first prize. Holder of the ninth-rank black belt,