Bibliography Index

• Aikido & The Harmony of Nature

  Mitsugi Saotome / Shambhala (1986)

  Aikido / Philosophical

  Summary: Saotome Shihan says in his dedication "Aikido is not philosophy. Aikido is the true expression and revelation of the ever-evolving functions of the universe;" and "In Asia the word Bu means to halt the danger of the thrusting blade. Since the beginnings of human culture, this concept of Bu has implied a global advancement toward the construction of a peaceful society." The rest of the book, translated by Patricia Saotome, attempts to explain these statements, with text, calligraphy, drawings, and photos. The 14 chapters include a History of the Founder, discussions of Truth, Justice, and Harmony, Aggression & the Evolution of Bujutsu, Aikido as a Budo and as a vehicle for the transmission of truth, Ki, the Training Process, the Education of an Uchi Deshi, and an examination of the Dojo as a Spritual Oasis. Although this is not a book on waza, technique is frequently discussed as a way to illustrate a point under discussion.

• Aikido: Living by Design

  Mitsugi Saotome / Arete Press (2003)

  Aikido / Anecdotal / Philosophical

  Summary: In this book, Saotome Sensei shows how he takes Aikido philosophy "off the mat" into his painting, calligraphy, clothing design and cooking. It is a unique glimpse at a man who truly has lived an Aikido life.

• Principles of Aikido, The

  Mitsugi Saotome / 1st edition, Shambhala Publications Inc, Boston (1989)

  Aikido / Technical

  Summary: "Aikido teaches a simple secret: the development of a better life is dependent on bettering yourself. Aikido offers no miracles except the miracle of your own existence and your human potential. Remember that you are a part of the universe. To ruin your life or waste it is to ruin a piece of the universe. With your birth you hold the key that opens the door to heaven. The most important duty in each person's life is to use that key and to make his or her life a manifestation of the heaven that it lies within our power to create." Mitsugi Saotome