Kim Barton compares the philosophy of aikido to a Harry Potter character, Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore.
"He diffuses situations and always has this Zen-like calm about him," said the 38-year-old mom who's been practicing the martial art for two years.
"He's very aikido."
The self-defense techniques in the Japanese martial art are designed to use the energy of the attacker against himself, rather than meeting his attack with resistance and force. The self-defense techniques flow like a dance and look choreographed because everyone is trained to fall and roll to avoid injury.
"We're supposed to protect our attacker and do whatever is necessary to control the situation," said Judith Robinson, the sensei at Aikido at the Center for Traditional Martial Arts.
It's that peaceful philosophy that attracts Barton to aikido. It's made her handle stress better and she doesn't get angry as easily. Barton feels more confident walking around the street knowing that she could protect herself.
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"We're trained to be attacked by more than one person, so I'm always aware of my surroundings," she said.
She's also learning to live in the moment.
"When we walk into the dojo, we leave our worries behind," said Barton, who considers her aikido class at the Center for Traditional Martial Arts a retreat from her busy life.
Dr. John Porter, a trauma surgeon and director of trauma and critical care at University Medical Center, practices aikido to keep himself centered and to cope with stress.
"The philosophy of blending with energy allows you to stay on an even keel and not get upset," said the 47-year-old. Stress leads to health problems, including migraines, heart attacks and ulcers, Porter said, but learning to breathe and stay centered during tough situations can benefit health.
The philosophy is a lot like yoga, but aikido teaches people to find their center during intense physical exertion, which translates better to a work environment, Porter said.
"They call it 'moving Zen' or 'moving meditation,' " Robinson said.
Barton says that everyone would be better off learning the techniques and philosophies of aikido. She values the peace and inner calm from her practice and meeting conflict with that peace, rather than resistance.
"I know it sounds so cheesy, but I really believe aikido could change the world."
● Aikido at the Center for Traditional Martial Arts, 3518 E. Grant Road
● For answers to questions, call Judith Robinson at 887-3986 or visit www.aikidoatthecenter.org online.
