PRACTICE OF THE Art of Peace is an act of faith, a belief in the ultimate power of nonviolence. It is faith in the power of purification and faith in the power of life itself. It is not a type of rigid discipline or empty asceticism. It is a path that follows natural principles, principles, that must be applied to daily living. The Art of Peace should be practiced from the time you rise to greet the morning to the time you retire at night.
THE BODY SHOULD be triangular, the mind circular. The triangle represents the generation of energy and is the most stable physical posture. The circle symbolizes serenity and perfection, the source of unlimited techniques. The square stands for solidity, the basis of applied control.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote explains the importance of balance between physical stability and mental serenity.
Morihei Ueshiba emphasizes the significance of aligning one's physical form with energy and stability, represented by a triangle, while also cultivating a serene and perfected mind, symbolized by a circle. The triangle represents strength and a solid foundation, necessary for energy generation, while the circle denotes mental peace and the potential for creativity and techniques. This interplay between physical and mental states is essential for personal development and mastery in any discipline.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
A yoga class focused on balancing physical poses with meditation could use this quote to inspire participants.
More from Morihei Ueshiba
All quotes →Study the teachings of the pine tree, the bamboo, and the plum blossom. The pine is evergreen, firmly rooted, and venerable. The bamboo is strong, resilient, unbreakable. The plum blossom is hardy, fragrant, and elegant.
EACH DAY OF HUMAN life contains joy and anger, pain and pleasure, darkness and light, growth and decay. Each moment is etched with nature’s grand design-do not try to deny or oppose the cosmic order of things.
Foster and polish the warrior spirit while serving in the world; illuminate the path according to your inner light.
Aikido is the spirit of loving protection for all beings.
The Way of a Warrior is based on humanity, love, and sincerity; the heart of martial valor is true bravery, wisdom, love, and friendship. Emphasis on the physical aspects of warriorship is futile, for the power of the body is always limited.
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