Sumikiri (Perfect Clarity)

Focus on stillness rather than motion

in order to master Aikido techniques.


For a heart instantaneously at one

with the clear and serene sky,

all existence appears in crystal clarity.

When the founder Morihei realized that state of mind, he felt bathed in golden light, and perceived the true mission of Aikido. The center of a spinning top appears to be completely still. That kind of stillness, rather than the rapid motion of the top, is where we should focus. It is where the secret of perfect clarity can be perceived. That stillness also lies at the heart of Aikido techniques. When speaking of the mysteries of centripetal and centrifugal forces, Morihei said “Large has no outside; small has no inside.”
This is a maxim we need to reflect deeply.
Kisshomaru Ueshiba

How can you apply this concept to your life?


When you are being stressed by the activities of your daily life what would happen if you stopped and did nothing for a moment?

Be Still.