IMPORTANT UNDERSTANDINGS –

This text is also available in: Deutsch

AN INTRODUCTION

I will be writing about the typical process of developmental progress as it relates to Internal Power and Aiki, particularly in regard to the “Kuas.” Before discussing Yin/Yang – In/Yo, Internal Power, and Aiki, I think it’s important to clarify what these terms refer to. While these terms have been in use in a variety of ways in multiple cultures throughout history, I will be using them in a specific way here. 

Yin and Yang, also known as In and Yo in Martial Arts, are often thought of as two things that appear to be equal and opposite. I will be more specific.

Internal Power and Aiki are often considered inexplicable, and therefore open to virtually any poetic, magical or mysterious interpretation. Consequently, both uncommon technical skill and/or mere human suggestibility are often mistaken for evidence of, or labeled as, “Internal Power” and/or “Aiki.” Again, I will be more specific.

Why? These non-specified interpretations can lead to flawed reasoning in regard to the practical application.

While some people may confuse the terms Internal Power and Aiki, I believe it is important to distinguish between them. Internal Power certainly has a relationship with Aiki and Aiki is most fully expressed in conjunction with the development of Internal Power. Internal Power involves the use of Yin/Yang or In/Yo, but it is not considered Aiki when used for resistance. 

I use these definitions for practical reasons and because they align with primary sources of knowledge for both Internal and Aiki arts.

THE YIN/YANG OR IN/YO RELATIONSHIP:

Here is the common symbol for Yin/Yang. Let us first note that both Yin and Yang are expressed as one infinite circle (without beginning or end). So, the two energies of Yin/Yang are always originally One. The symbol has a white portion that transforms into its opposite, black, at its largest part. (This being the case, it necessarily must have carried the potentiality or “seed” within itself to become black. This is represented by the black dot. As the black portion grows, it gives rise to the white portion. Therefore, the black must have carried the potentiality or “seed” to become white. This is represented by the black dot. Consequently, one cannot exist without the other. They are co-arising, co-dependent, and mutually interpenetrating (as evidenced by the dots.) 

To understand the Yin/Yang relationship, it is crucial to realize that they are essentially connected and influence each other. Below I try to provide practical examples of what a Yin/Yang relationship is not, and what it is:

The two gears can rotate in opposite directions, but they are not in a Yin/Yang or In/Yo relationship. This is because the rotation of one gear does not always cause the other gear to rotate in the same way. They do not exist and function in unity and therefore are NOT an example of a Yin/Yang or In/Yo relationship.

The two gears are related to each other, like Yin and Yang, or In and Yo. When one gear rotates, it also causes the other gear to rotate in the opposite direction. This is a clear example of a Yin/Yang or In/Yo relationship. One inevitably leads to the creation of the other. They start at the same time, depend on each other, and complement each other. They exist and function in unity.

EXTERNAL POWER:

The generation of power primarily comes from the major muscle groups located externally, with the bones acting as efficient levers. This power is commonly harnessed through a sequence of kinetic movements, resulting in observable external actions.

As one can see, there is potential overlap between the definition of external and internal power. This isn’t a fault of definition, but rather a fact of relation. Anybody has both potential external and internal power, or both, at any given time. The difference is largely a matter of degree or predominance. Virtually everyone begins from the “outside” and works their way to a better understanding of the inside. So, external power and internal power exist on a continuum. This is the cause of a lot of confusion and misunderstanding. External power mainly aims to improve the development of large muscle groups and enhance the performance of obvious movements with maximum efficiency. Internal power aims to strengthen muscles and connective tissues in the body, as well as enhance internal movement through the neurological system and mind. Again, all individuals have a mind/body, so there is overlap and consequently differences in opinion.

The concept of Internal Power goes beyond the mere acquisition of skills. It requires knowing how to produce and use power within the body. 

Also, this definition does not require special sensitivity, suggestibility, coercion, or cooperation. And, while the results of internal power (as well as external power) may seem extraordinary, magical or mystical, they are not the result of magic.

It’s crucial to understand that internal power is not always synonymous with Aiki.

A catapult harnesses the power of rotation, symbolizing the inherent balance between Yin and Yang, or In and Yo. Internal Power can be generated within the human body, similar to how structural and force relationships are created. However, External Power is more commonly used for this purpose. However, the force produced (impact of the projectile) isn’t non-resistant and thereby would not normally be considered Aiki. A trebuchet is an even better example of a strike produced via Internal Power. This is an example of Yin/Yang or In/Yo created force being used “internally” to produce “power” which is not Aiki.

But wait! Isn’t it commonly quoted that, “Aikido 70 – 90% atemi?”

AIKI:

A Yin/Yang or In/Yo relationship (co-dependent, co-arising forces that are in a complementary inverse relationship) that is inherently non-resistant, and therefore cannot be opposed.

This definition of Aiki can incorporate Internal Power as defined above but does not necessarily require it. It also complies with the meaning of the term “Aiki” as it is used in primary Daito Ryu and Aikido sources. It does this while avoiding the stumbling block of being open to any, and all, interpretations. In other words, it avoids the implication that Aiki means whatever one feels it means.

A bicycle utilizes the rotation of gears and a chain, symbolizing a harmonious Yin/Yang or In/Yo relationship, to generate the rotational movement of the tire. This movement aligns tangentially with the surface of the earth, where the forces intersect perpendicularly. The “internally” created power is used to produce an Aiki relationship with the earth. Aiki forces exist in a bicycle, such as in the gears, chain, and tire. They also have a non-resistant relationship with the earth. Indeed, the bicycle embodies the essence of Ten, Chi, Jin, as it harmoniously interconnects gravity, the stability of the earth, and the human element, creating a profound Yin/Yang or In/Yo alliance, fully embracing the principles of Aiki.

Wrapping Up:

These definitions presented above successfully steer clear of the significant misconceptions surrounding these terms and their connection to their respective martial traditions. One prevalent misinterpretation to be aware of is the belief that these terms solely pertain to technique. They do not. Although a technique may refer to any of the terms and include them in the technique’s name. A common mistake is assuming that terms can be universally interpreted due to their lack of specificity in form or technique, and their references are often phenomenological or metaphorical. They were not. In the case of their use in Chinese and Japanese martial traditions, their reference is specific and purposeful. In other words, they use was meant to communicate a specific meaning to be understood in a specific way.

Next Up:

My next blog will be about the “Kuas” and the process of development in relationship to Internal Power and Aiki development.