Keep one point

Yesterday we talked briefly about the 4 basic principles of aikido:

1. Keep one point
2. Relax completely
3. Keep good posture
4. Extend ki

Today let's take the first principle - Keep one point. What the heck does that mean : )

I've also heard this discussed as keeping your concentration in your center which for some seems to be a more helpful way of understanding this principle. This is an overriding principle of Aikido and also has a lot to do with principle #3 - keep good posture.

One point or center is really about our center of gravity. Our center of gravity is kind of like the equator, it's more of theoretical location than a tangible place (like a nose or an ear), but it is still very real. It is generally agreed that our center of gravity is a little below our navel in our abdomen (think of a person 3-dimensionally). It is a very important area in terms of keeping our balance - both physical balance and mental balance. By keeping our concentration on our center or one point we are more able to coordinate body and mind.

Sometimes Aikido is criticized for being to "airy fairy" with too much emphasis placed on things like Ki and one point, etc., but this principle can really be viewed as basic physics. Call it "one point" or call it your center of gravity but what's essential is that you know how to keep your balance in all the areas that important to your practice.