Chicago Aikido Club
4427 North Clark Street, Chicago, Illinois 60640 • P.O. Box 180224, Chicago, Illinois 60618-0617
info@chicagoaikidoclub.com • 773-634-9824 • www.chicagoaikidoclub.com
Readings
Recommended reading for further exploration of the art.
Aikido and the Dynamic Sphere: An Illustrated Introduction
Adele Westbrook, Oscar Ratti
Considered one of the definitive volumes on Aikido. A comprehensive overview of the art, including its history, theory, etiquette and fundamentals. Detailed descriptions include beautifully rendered illustrations of aikido exercises and techniques.
Aikido and the Harmony of Nature
Mitsugi Saotome
Writings by Saotome Shihan explaining the spiritual philosophy behind Aikido. Draws upon the author’s fifteen years experience as a direct student of Morihei Ueshiba. Contains numerous drawing, diagrams and calligraphies by Saotome Shihan himself, as well as photographs demonstrating aikido techniques.
Aikido in America
John Stone, Ron Meyer
A collection of original interviews outlining the history of Aikido in the United States. Two generations of martial arts explain how Aikido affected the course of their lives. Co-written by ASU instructor John Stone of Aikido of Madison and Ron Meyer of Boulder Aikikai.
Aikido in Daily Life
Koichi Tohei
1966 classic that takes Aikido out of the dojo and applies it to everyday life. Written by one of direct students of founder Morihei Ueshiba and founder of the Ki no Kenyukai (Ki Society). A thorough exploration of how may find a true resolution to all conflicts.
The Art of Peace
Morihei Ueshiba, Lloyd James, John Stevens
A compilation of translations from the core teachings of Aikido founder Morihei Ueshiba. Topics range from the meaning of budo to man’s relationship to nature and how to achieve both inner peace and outer peace.
It's a Lot Like Dancing: An Aikido Journey
Terry Dobson (Author), Riki Moss (Editor), Jan Watson (Photographer)
Amazing photo essay accompanied by the words of the beloved instructor Terry Dobson. A must read for those seeking a perspective of Aikido that goes beyond the physical. Photos include a who’s who of notable Aikido instructors from the 70s and 80s, including Wendy Palmer, Shigeru Suzuki and others.
Musashi
Eiji Yoshikawa
A literary retelling of the life and exploits of famed swordsman Miyamoto Musashi, author of the Book of Five Rings
. A classic tale of real-life adventure and one warrior’s path of self-development. Recommended by Jo Takehara for its embodiment of budo’s indefinable aspects.
The Principles of Aikido
Mitsugi Saotome
An illustrated explanation of the philosophy and practice of the art; its emphasis on harmony and peaceful resolution of conflict. Detailed photographs provide step-by-step analysis of basic and advanced techniques. Subjects also covered in a companion video.
The Spirit of Aikido
Kisshomaru Ueshiba
A thorough overview of the art of Aikido, including its history, philosophy and practice. Authored by the late Kisshomaru Ueshiba, son of the founder and former Doshu. An excellent introduction for any first-time students and a handy reference for the experienced.
