IF YOU DON'T HAVE A SWORD WITHIN YOUR NATURE YOU CAN'T HOLD YOUR LINE.

My Aikido teacher spoke of this, in relation to physical and non-physical confrontation: This sword we speak of comes from the correct alignment of mind, body, and spirit, expressed from our center (Hara), and immovable self (Fudo Shin) in Japanese.

It is in confluence with clear values and principals that we hold within us, and when faced with decisions and actions we come from this centred place.

Without knowing thyself and what your principals are, it can be difficult for ego, anger or disaligned self not to rise up under pressure.

Strong values and principals give us a sword in our nature that we can hold to. A centred place, relaxed in our alignment. It happens to be a very non-aggressive notion because we can relax within what we know is authentic, and we can come from a truly aligned place.

There are 5 principals of Aikido to be used in physical and non-physical conflicts.

1. Welcome confrontation as an opportunity to learn.
2. Stand offline (don’t take it personally).
3. Blend (see where they are looking, their perspective).
4. Extend along their line, help them where they want to go.
5. Lead them into a place of safety.