There is a strong relationship between Yoga and Aikido, in fact these two words have a similar meaning and in a certain way they move in the same universe; Yoga means “union” or “connection.” In Sanskrit, the word “yoga” is used to express any form of connection. Yoga is both a state of connection and a body of techniques that allow us to connect to anything. The conscious connection to something allows us to feel and experience that thing, person or experience. The experience of connection is a state of yoga, a joyful and blissful, fulfilling experience.
Consciousness is the secret of yoga. One of its definitions is that yoga is any method that allows us to wake up to who or what we really are and what the meaning of life is. Anything that allows us to be more self-conscious and feel connected with ourselves and life is a form of yoga.
On the other hand, in Japanese, the word Aikido means “the way of harmony (union) with Ki (universal)”. We see that many of the basic principles of ki aikido are developed from concepts and practices of yoga.
The practice of yoga has aroused great interest in contemporary Western society as a response to the hectic pace of life and stress. Towards the middle of the twentieth century, yoga erupted in the West, where it has already consolidated as a global phenomenon backed by scientific studies that determine its benefits. This millennial discipline has been so successful to the point of being declared Intangible Heritage of Humanity by Unesco.
The tradition is becoming especially important at the global level, for example, the Indian government has since 2014 with the Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, and that same year the General Assembly of the United Nations established on June 21 as the International Day of Yoga, Citing that it “provides a holistic approach to health and well-being” and recognizing that it is important to inform “the world that constant practice promotes disease prevention”.
Yoga gains recognition as it begins to become part of studies and research that recognize its advantages. Among the benefits of Yoga are the strengthening of bones and muscles, greater flexibility, improved breathing, stress management, concentration and a conscious connection with the environment, among others.