Читать книгу Aikido Weapons Techniques. The Wooden Sword, Stick, and Knife of Aikido онлайн

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Metsuke is the soft eye focus that facilitates better utilization of the peripheral vision to be aware of motion and to help maintain a sense of physical, emotional, and mental calm. Metsuke perceives as if looking into the distance, without focusing or stopping the eyes or mind on any one thing. Without attachment to any one thing, all things are seen and perceived for what they are. “Seeing without looking = perceiving” (Random 1977, p. 78). Looking implies looking for something specific, while perceiving means to be aware of what is there. Metsuke also facilitates the ability to perceive and distinguish shapes, contours, and textures that do not fit a specific context, giving advance notice and the ability to respond proactively and protectively. Too often, in weapons work, the eyes focus on the weapon. This is a mistake, since it leaves the vision and reaction fixated on only one aspect of the opponent or attacker.

Ma-ai is the concept of cultivation and maintenance of proper combative distance. Too far away, and the technique is ineffective because one is outside the circle of power. Too close, and the technique is ineffective as well. The beginning ready ma-ai is often the distance required to have the tips of the weapons touching, so that one step can deliver the single lethal strike.