Kotsu Kotsu

In  Kokikai Aikido  we use  four basic principles  as a way to express the core ideas of our practice, in a way that's easy to remember. One of these is: Correct Posture (in everything) Good posture makes everything easier. In class we usually teach correct posture while standing or sitting. But the wording of the principle is  Correct Posture (in everything) . How many of us forget to have good posture as soon as the instructor stops talking about it? I think the part in parentheses is the most important part!  Sensei  often says, "Habit is second nature." We want to make good posture a habit, so that it becomes second nature. For me, it took many years of practice to unlearn my habit of poor posture.  Making good posture a habit meant thinking about posture on the mat and off:  while walking, sitting, talking, playing music and working. I make use of any trick that may help me be mindful of my posture. An experienced aiki...