Aikido: The Way of Harmony : Book Review

"Aikido" by John Stevens offers readers a comprehensive and illuminating exploration of the Japanese martial art of Aikido. With his expertise as both a practitioner and scholar, Stevens dives deep into the philosophy, history, and techniques that make Aikido unique.

The book commences with an enlightening introduction that traces the origins of Aikido, shedding light on its founder, Morihei Ueshiba. Stevens delves into the spiritual aspects of the art, emphasizing its focus on harmony and personal growth. This lays a strong foundation for readers to comprehend the underlying principles that guide the physical techniques.

Throughout the book, Stevens excels at explaining and demonstrating various Aikido techniques. From fundamental movements to complex throws and joint locks, he provides clear instructions accompanied by illustrative visuals, enabling readers to grasp the intricacies of each technique effectively. Moreover, Stevens incorporates principles of physics and biomechanics, offering a scientific understanding of the effectiveness behind certain techniques.

One of the standout features of "Aikido" is its emphasis on personal development and self-discovery. Stevens encourages readers to view Aikido not only as a martial art but also as a tool for cultivating one's character. He shares valuable insights on how the principles of Aikido can be applied to daily life, promoting harmony and balance in all aspects.

Overall, "Aikido" by John Stevens is a highly informative and practical guide for anyone interested in delving into the philosophy and techniques of Aikido. This book caters to both beginners and experienced practitioners alike, providing valuable insights, clear explanations, and inspiring reflections on the transformative power of this martial art form. With a wealth of knowledge and expertise, Stevens invites readers to embark on a journey of self-discovery through the study of Aikido.

What are readers saying?

The book "Aikido" by John Stevens has garnered mixed reviews from readers. While some readers praised the author's expertise in the subject and found the book to be informative and comprehensive, others felt that it lacked depth and practical guidance, particularly for beginners.

A number of readers appreciated John Stevens' extensive knowledge of Aikido and his ability to explain complex concepts in a simple and accessible manner. They lauded the book for its detailed exploration of the history, philosophy, and principles behind this Japanese martial art. Many found Stevens' writing style engaging and easy to follow, making it an enjoyable read for those already familiar with the basics of Aikido.

However, a portion of readers expressed disappointment with the book, feeling that Stevens did not delve deep enough into certain aspects of Aikido, resulting in the content feeling superficial at times. Some also mentioned that the book lacked practical guidance and techniques, which they had expected as beginners. These readers believed that the book was better suited for individuals who already had a fundamental understanding of Aikido rather than newcomers to the practice.

Despite the mixed feedback, it is worth noting that several readers appreciated the comprehensive nature of the book. They found the illustrations and diagrams to be helpful in understanding various Aikido techniques. Others commended the inclusion of different perspectives on Aikido, as it provided a well-rounded view of the art.

In conclusion, "Aikido" by John Stevens received a range of opinions from readers. While some found the book informative and valued the author's expertise, others felt that it lacked depth and practical guidance, particularly for beginners. Ultimately, readers with prior knowledge of Aikido may find this book more beneficial than those who are new to the practice.

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