Spirit of Aikido
The word aikido is formed of three Japanese characters,
- 合 - ai - joining
- 気 - ki - spirit
- 道 - dō - way
Aiki is a martial arts principle or tactic. It describes an idea of joining together in the midst of combat. This principle finds expressions in such lethal concepts as the "mutual strike/kill" (相撃ち, ai-uchi?), but in aikido it generally describes the elevated notion of moving together rather than clashing. Emphasis is upon unifying with the rhythm and intent of the opponent in order to find the optimal position and timing with which to apply the technique.
The techniques of aikido can, when applied judiciously, divert or immobilize rather than damage or kill. As a result, some consider aikido to be a practical symbol of meeting aggression (physical, verbal, etc.) with an effective but merciful response, and finding harmony in conflict. Ueshiba declared, "To control aggression without inflicting injury is the Art of Peace."
Source : Wikipedia