“Trust the process…”

This is something that was explained to me in other classes that I have taken, but it also applies to Aikido. 

In Aikido it is stressed that we leave our worries and concerns about the outside world outside and concentrate on what we are learning and doing while we are in the class.  Unlike activities such as running and yoga, where you can find yourself wandering back to your life’s stresses and worries, Aikido is an activity that can make it very easy to put all of that out of your mind while you are training.  This practice has helped me to come back to work or home feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.  My husband also practices Aikido and we both have seen positive impacts on our relationship. 

It is also stressed in Aikido to focus on your physical self – your breathing, your posture, your movements – so that you can feel balanced and grounded and you can get in touch with the power that is within you.  I believe that this aspect will help me as I age (I am now 52) to keep good flexibility and balance, and will help maintain healthy bone density and muscle tone. 

By going through the process of learning the movements and philosophy of Aikido, I believe that my life has been enriched mentally and physically, in addition to the friendships that have resulted from being around others who are caring and treat each other with respect, and who also “trust the process…” 

Laura Klaich