Ki Federation of Great Britain

Aikido - Relaxation - Calmness - Confidence - Mindfulness

Logo of 'Ki Federation of Great Britain' written around the Japanese character meaning 'ki', or 'energy'
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Why do we bow in Aikido?

Bow in AikidoIn the West we shake hands as a gesture of friendship (offering the empty sword hand), but remember we also have a tradition of bowing – to an audience, to royalty etc.

In Aikido, we are are studying an art that originated in Japan. So naturally, we have inherited the etiquette associated with that tradition, but there is far more to it than that. When we bow in Aikido, we must do so with genuine feeling, and with respect and humility. We must take care not to just go through the motions of bowing and allow it to become a tedious ritual.

Firstly, we bow to the mat. It normally takes great effort on the part of the teacher or students to obtain the mat, so we must be careful not to take it for granted. Practice without it could be dangerous, especially for beginners.

Secondly, we bow towards the Ki sign. This represents the universe, or nature herself. If we bow with the correct attitude we will remind ourself that we are not above nature, but a small part of something infinitely greater than ourselves. But do not make the mistake of thinking that we are worshipping the Ki sign in any way.

Bow in AikidoThirdly, we bow to our fellow students and partners, including the teacher. We cannot really study and progress by ourselves, so we should bow with genuine respect and friendship towards our partners.

To simplify, to bow in Aikido is a genuine gesture of respect.

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Upcoming Open Courses

  1. Spring Seminar - 17th May 2025
  2. Lochaber weekend course - 21st Jun 2025
  3. Kyu Grading Course - 12th Jul 2025
  4. Summer Seminar week - 4th Aug 2025
  5. Autumn Seminar - 25th Oct 2025

Upcoming Dan Grade Courses

  1. Weapons Course - 8th Jun 2025
  2. Tanto course, 3rd Dan above - 8th Jun 2025
  3. Introduction To Ki Therapy Course - 28th Jun 2025
  4. 1st Kyu, 1st and 2nd Dan Group - 6th Sep 2025
  5. 6th, 7th, 8th Dan Group Course - 20th Sep 2025

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    To become a Ki Federation member you will sign a membership form agreeing to the Ki Federation rules below. Membership Membership is open to individuals who have paid the annual membership fees laid down from time to time by the Federation (save that individuals who are over the age of 70 are exempt from membership fees), and follow the form of Ki Aikido…
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