There are many ways to improve physical health and emotional well-being, but sport is one of the best. The organisation’s social workers are resourceful and creative, so they decided to maintain their well-being by practising martial arts and became particularly interested in Aikido – a traditional Japanese martial art. The AIKIDO AIKIKAI ASSOCIATION “SŪKURYS” helped the social workers make this dream come true by giving two social workers the opportunity to attend Aikido training sessions free of charge.
Aikido truly provides significant benefits for both physical and mental well-being.
In Japanese history, as in many other cultures, martial arts were not intended solely for practical use in warfare, but also for the development of a person’s character. The qualities of an ideal warrior – courage, determination, strength, clarity of mind, and compassion – are also ideal human qualities.
Aikido develops the human body in a unique way. Good physical condition is achieved through intensive training. Flexibility of the joints and connective tissues is developed through various stretching exercises and the Aikido techniques themselves. Relaxation is learned naturally, as the techniques will not work without it.
According to the philosophy of Aikido, the body and mind are not separate; the state of one affects the other. The physical relaxation learned through Aikido naturally develops into mental relaxation. Likewise, perseverance and self-confidence, once developed, are reflected in the body, which moves and carries itself with confidence and strength.
Ultimately, the practice of Aikido can become part of our everyday lives, in every moment. Each of us experiences some form of conflict every day – with others, with our environment, with our bodies, and with ourselves. Yet we can choose to see conflict either as something to avoid and fight against, or as a creative force for change that enables genuine growth and learning. From this perspective, our lives become richer and more meaningful. Every situation can be used as a stepping stone towards greater personal growth. We learn to open ourselves to experience rather than avoid the unpleasant aspects of life. Our minds develop, and we become stronger (adapted from [https://aaa-aikido.com/benefits-of-aikido/](https://aaa-aikido.com/benefits-of-aikido/)).
We sincerely thank the AIKIDO AIKIKAI ASSOCIATION “SŪKURYS” for giving the social workers of the “Savi namai” Independent Living Home at Valakampiai Social Services Home the opportunity to attend Aikido training sessions free of charge, and we wish the Association every success!!
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