This ancient Japanese martial art emphasizes compassion for oneself and others, awareness, and relaxation. The Japanese chant "Masakatsue, Agutsu, Katsu ha ya bi" translates to "true victory, self victory, let that day arrive right here, right now." Learn to blend and harmonize with the attacker to bring conflict to a peaceful resolution. The goal is to be able to do the same for ourselves, knowing that, at times, we can be our own worst enemies. Discover coping skills to enable yourself to become more intimate and loving toward yourself and others. While there are major throws to the mat in traditional aikido, we will instead examine the movements without the throws. Aikido is for everyone; if you can walk, you can do aikido. Come and enjoy! Please wear loose, comfortable clothing; bring water and a towel. Ron Houle, a licensed social worker, is 5th Dan in Aikido. He has been practicing and teaching for 35 years. He teaches at Portland Aikido. He developed a program called Clinical Martial Arts.