Lower Providence Aikido

That there is a martial arts science is an unarguable fact, the sad news is that people hold to art, and refuse the science in their thinking. This science, however, permeates the fighting disciplines and is inherent in many of the books, strategies and philosophies of the world. In this article we will discuss the distinct progression of arts that will illuminate the science.

The universe can be separated into five distinct but unique elements. Interestingly, though there can be disagreement as to what the basic elements are, the science will still be revealed. Thus, select whichever elements you choose, and apply your arts as is shown in this article, and it will still work.

The first element one must understand is air. Air is breathed in and utilized to generate chi energy. Thus, one could do any physical discipline, yoga is very good, the study of zen is quite adequate, and begin the transmutation of the universe into personal energy.

The second element is fire, and this is the generation of chi within the body generator, known as the tan tien, or 'one point.' Fire can be developed by studying the more violent arts. This would include such practices as Karate, Kenpo, Taekwondo, and so on.

The third element to be considered is earth. One breathes air in, generates the fire within, and connects the fire to the earth. This can be done in any fighting system, but a study of such arts as Tai Chi Chuan or Pa Kua Chang are usually the best for this.

The fourth element to be considered is water. Once one learns how to connect to the earth, one must make oneself fluid, and this holds for movements, strategic shifts in fighting skills, and so on. This can be practiced, again, through wudan based martial styles, but also through Aikido, and some of the more esoteric Indonesian styles.

The fifth element is void. Void is the manifestation of awareness, and comes through an understanding of all arts. To study one art is to study a piece of the whole, is like studying one flower and assuming you know them all.

The conclusion to be reached here is that one must apply oneself to all arts and learn their juxtapositioning. One must come to an appreciation of their inter-relationships, and understand them as a whole. This is the only way to truly master the fighting systems of the world, and to understand the complete Martial Arts Science.