Let me start this review with a disclaimer. I’m a student of the author Nev Sagiba and have had the good fortune to work through the subject matter of the book during training. So, I approach the book with a positive attitude toward it and the approach of the author. This is not a book that shows techniques in a step by step way. Rather, it is a manual, or aide memoire, for students who have had at least two to three years experience in practicing Aikido.
The book outlines a framework for studying transitions and counters using sixteen widely practiced and basic techniques. As the author says, the material here is neither entirely new nor unknown. However, the framework is a valuable way of developing skills. Let me explain with a simple example.
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“It was purely by chance that a friend of a friend recommended yet another Physio, saying that she had helped with a similar injury. By now I was ready to try anything, so I made an appointment and dutifully rolled up on time, expecting the usual manipulation and ‘Theraband’ rehab exercises. I lay down on the couch and she wiggled my arm around a bit and then said “Hang on, I’ll go get my needles”. “Sorry? I asked. “Needles” said she “You have come for acupuncture I’m assuming?”. I hadn’t, but if there is one thing Aiki teaches you it’s to roll with whatever life serves up. “Errr.. yes. No problem”.
I have tried to broach this subject before, and I will probably fall short now, but in every core theory to a higher level of martial arts we are told to check our our emotions, but .. how can anyone control the emotional mind?
As 2008 draws rapidly to a close, it is time again to reflect on this year filled with many events, not only in the world, but also at the Yoseikan. Some of those events are Mochizuki Sensei’s remains being returned from France to Japan and Tezuka Akira Sensei’s recent passing.
We would like to bring to your attention that we have recently released a 
“In Japanese use of the word, you cannot call yourself sensei. It’s used only by others when they address you or talk about you, if they feel that it is appropriate. That’s wonderful. You are only a teacher if somebody readily admits to being your student, i.e. turns to you in order to learn something. If you insist on teaching without being asked, you are something else.”
Brian Kagen is an avid web researcher with a particular interest in martial arts. His training background includes both judo and aikido. He has contributed hundreds of article links over the years for AJ readers.
The Human body-mind, the Hito Jinja contains all the forces of the universe whether we are conscious of this or not. Most will remain latent throughout a life.
“The dojo has been attacked, it’s space violated with deliberate force and intention to do harm. Let’s respond to this attack with active, heartfelt Love,” she wrote. ‘Send the dojo love, blessing and light. Send the attacker love, blessing and light.’”