The reason I started practicing aikido is very simple: I got beaten down at the streets at night. I vowed never to let this happen again this easily, so I started practicing the martial arts. The memory of this incident is vague, so it isn't a motivation anymore to train. Then why do I practice aikido? The most honest answer I can give is, because I 'just' do it. Aikido doesn't have competitions, which gives room for you to just practice the art as you are, amongst a group of very kind people. The practice gives insight into the workings of yourself and others; insight in yourself because the practice really makes clear what goes on in your mind and body, insight in others because the defender (tori) and attacker (uke) have a complex interplay. Don't be mistaken: Aikido is difficult and hard work, nonetheless it's very satisfying to practice.
