Awase-dō
The practice of connection.
- Attack
- Connect
- Get off the line
- Enter in
- Control
- Submit
Awase-dō
The practice of connection.
Awase-dō is a movement practice for two partners (attacker and guide) seeking connection. It is not a martial art, although it has roots in Aikido and Jiu Jitsu.
An attack is an unskilled attempt at connection.
An attack arises from the attacker’s feeling of disconnection and the need to reconnect.
Without an attack, there is no movement.
Any time the attacker stops or withdraws, the movement ends.
The ultimate connection is the connection of self with the earth or spirit.
The center line is like a lightning rod connected to the earth.
An attack is like a bolt of lightning seeking ground through a lightning rod.
The guide is like a conductor that channels lightning to ground.
The guide must be centered and connected to help the attacker.
When the attacker finds connection, the attacker submits.
The attacker does not submit until connection is found.
Control is leading the attacker to connection.
At no time does the guide use strength or power to overcome the attacker.
The attacker may submit at any time.
The attacker at any time may withdraw or escape, thus ending the movement.