Springfield Aikido School

When practicing Kokyudosa, remember that, like standing technique, the energy comes from below. Visually, we observe the arms taking action, energy may be seen as coming from the shoulders, going forward through uke. We may imitate this for a time, bracing to move from the upper body.

As we become familiar, more relaxed, and breathe as we move, we can notice an allowing sensation coming from below, a down to up. The ‘kokyuing’ action, as expressed through the ‘sword hand’ or ‘tegatana ’, can be seen to demonstrate this upward movement.

Integrate the arms and body so they move as one unit. The energy in the arms drop, weight placed on the underside, connecting to the center while the center itself has its own ‘dropped’ sensation.
The lowered center rises, as our dropped elbows extend through the expressing kokyuing hand. We raise uke’s elbows and center, fully disrupting his structure.
Use the breath to assist, an inhale then an exhale, an in and then an out.
The conscious student can further refine using this breath, creating a yin/yang sensation.

Keep practicing.

G.Breeland, 6th dan