The chances are fairly good that you walk just fine, without the aid of a cane. However, have you ever considered that a cane can be a very effective weapon? They can, if you know how to correctly use one.

In fact, these days, there are even self defense courses and home study courses that will teach you how to effectively use a cane in the event that you are attacked. Furthermore, you don't need a license to carry a cane. They are perfectly legal, in all states, in all countries.

First, select a good cane that has some weight to it. Choose one crafted from a hard wood, such as hickory or oak. There are also canes that have a point at the end of the "hook" instead of a smooth rounded edge. Consider purchasing such a cane.

There is no law that states that you must have a rubber end on the cane. You can have a cane that has a very sharp point at the bottom, as long as that point does not extend longer than the law would allow in your area. Note, however, that such a cane may not be allowed on airplanes.

Once you've selected a good cane or walking stick, your next objective should be to take a course that will teach you how to effectively use it. A cane can be used for bashing, but it could also be used for warding off blows.

One thing to note is that a cane can be taken away from you and used against you. For this reason, it is really important that you invest a few dollars more into a good course that teaches you not only how to use the cane for self-defense, but also how to avoid having it being taken from you by your assailant.

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Aikido is one of the oldest form of martial arts. Founded by Morihei Ueshiba, aikido came about through the studies of many different kinds of traditional martial arts. In fact, is often perceived as a form of exercise or a dance because of some of its forms. It is also viewed by some quarters as some form of martial mesmerism.

Aikido is even confused with Daito Ryu Aikijutsu, it is different in its essence. Still, its founder attributed his creation of aikido to the way, his master Sokaku Takeda, grandmaster of Daito Ryu, opened his eyes to the nature of Budo.

What is aikido?

Despite its many perceived forms, aikido is a Budo or martial arts. It is the refinement of the techniques that are being taught in traditional martial arts and is combined with a philosophy that calls on for the power of the spirit. In its essence, it is a blending of the body and the mind.

Its philosophy is basically derived from the belief that deceptions and trickery or brute force will not make us defeat our opponents. Instead, concentration that involves the spirit will be enough to strengthen us.

Aikido is also used as a way to discover our true paths so that we can develop our individuality. It also teaches its practitioners to unify their body and their mind so that they will become in harmony with the ?universe? and with nature. Their power and their strength will come from this balance and harmony.

The word ?universe? in aikido is not some obscure concept that one cannot achieve. It is actually quite concrete and is even within the grasp of the person. In aikido, ?universe? can be achieved through actual experiences and everyday life.

Aikido?s movements and techniques are circular. When a circle is created in aikido, the person is said to be protected from a collision from an opposing force. A firm center, however, is needed to create this circle. An example of a firm circle is a spinning top that turns at fast speed. Without a firm center, the speed of movement will only create imbalance. The stillness of the spinning top while in speeding motion is what is called sumikiri in Aikido language. This is achieved only by what Aikido founder calls ?total clarity of mind and body.? However, this is not so easily achieved. It takes a long time of study and practice in order to find this intense concentration and centeredness.

Training is important in aikido as well as concentration because while it may be easy to create a centered being when inside a martial arts gym, the same cannot be said of situations and circumstances outside. It will not be easy to keep one?s composure when faced with extraordinary circumstances. This is actually one of the goals of Aikido training. It aims to teach its practitioners to maintain their composure and their centeredness even in panic situations such as danger and calamities.

One method taught in aikido is to breathe with what is called the seika tanden point. This is the part of the body that can be found two inches below the navel. Controlled breathing is one key to being one with the universe and to center oneself with nature. When a person learns to do this, he or she will feel extraordinary calmness that they can use in the practice of aikido.

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Martial arts schools advertise and offer the promise of teaching its students self defense. This is true in many ways. These classes teach you moves that are mastered over time and can be useful if attacked.

Most martial arts classes teach the step-by-step, preset model approach. This does teach students how to apply techniques when having to deal with violent attackers in self-defense situations. However, many people believe it is the mental approach - the ability focus on workable principles and concepts to control the situation and remain calm that will provide the real key to using techniques learned in martial arts toward self defense in a real life situation.

Some schools have recognized that there are an infinite number of combinations if they focus on the mechanics alone. They also recognize and teach that "what" you do is not nearly as important as when, why, how, and under what circumstances you should react. You cannot expect to go to a martial arts class and learn a few quick moves and be able to win a street fight. Nor can you expect to go a few times and be prepared to defend yourself against an assailant.

If you decide that a martial art is the right choice for you for self defense, make it a priority. Plan to work hard and study hard. Only after mastering multiple techniques will you be able to automatically recall them in a situation. The mental and emotional aspect taught in martial arts will teach you to remain calm and be able to recall and apply what you have learned.

Keep in mind that a real-life attack is a lot different from facing an opponent in a controlled situation. You will need to be able to focus on the
situation at hand, analyze the threat, and determine what needs to be done to defend it. If you have studied and mastered the concepts taught in martial arts classes, you should be prepared to face an unknown attacker with confidence and skill.

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