Aikido and music, two harmonic arts

On this episode,My talk with Liam Robertson, musician and aikidoka (Aikido of Petaluma), moved pretty deftly (if I do say so myself) into an exploration of the profound philosophical and physical resonances between these two harmonic arts.We got into a sound discussion (get it?) on the many parallels between Aikido and music, ultimately recognizing them both as empowering disciplines that refine our natural emotional expressions, offering the opportunity, through harmonic shifts, to move beyond “ego.”A further focus on authentic, present expression led us into the realm of somatics, specifically Liam’s understanding that the body is your first instrument.Strozzi-Heckler Sensei, defines somatics as the art and study of the soma, viewing the body as a “living wholeness” where mind, body, and spirit are integrated.Liam applies this principle directly in his music teaching, asserting that the body is the primary instrument for self-expression, preceding the voice. This approach requires the practitioner to witness what is occurring in the body, paying attention to posture and presence, etc.Sounds like Aikido...We also contemplated the critical role of competition in shaping both arts, particularly the revolutionary non-competitive stance of Aikido.In our modern, atomized, and hyper-competitive world, the Aikido dojo offers a necessary sanctuary for people seeking more harmony in their lives.As in playing music with a joyful devotion, when practice is collaborative, it allows us to transcend the illusory quality of separation and division.Don’t miss this one! Get full access to Ki to the City at kitothecity.substack.com/subscribe