There is no substitute for on-the-mat training under the guidance of certified instructors; however, there are numerous ways to achieve continuous growth off the mat as well. The following is a list of literary resources that continue to guide practitioners at Aikido of Volusia throughout their journey: (In no particular order)
Technique
Aikido and the Dynamic Sphere–A. Westbrook & O. Ratti
Dynamic Aikido– Gozo Shioda
The Principles of Aikido – Mitsugi Saotome
The study of Aikido is not only the pursuit of mastering technique, but also the pursuit of mastering oneself through the development of individual character and ethos thatincludes but not limited to rectitude, benevolence, courage, politeness, veracity, honor, and loyalty. The following selections serve as guides along this path.
History/Philosophy
The Secret Teachings of Aikido – Morihei Ueshiba
Budo: Teachings of the Founder of Aikido– Morihei Ueshiba
The Heart of Aikido – Morihei Ueshiba
The Art of Peace – Morihei Ueshiba
A Life in Aikido– Kisshomaru Ueshiba
The Spirit of Aikido – Kisshomaru Ueshiba
The Practice of Freedom: Aikido Principles as a Spiritual Guide – Wendy Palmer
Aikido for Self Discovery – Stan Wrobel, Ph.D.
Martial Arts- General
In the Dojo: A guide to the rituals and etiquette of Japanese Martial Arts – Dave Lowry
Traditions: Essays on the Japanese Martial Arts and Ways – Dave Lowry
Moving Towards Stillness: Lessons on Daily Life from the Martial Way – Dave Lowry
Training in the Samurai Mind – Thomas Cleary
Bushido: The Warrior’s Code– Inazo Nitobe
Budo Mind and Body – Nicklaus Suino
Be Like Water: Practical Wisdom from the Martial Arts – Joseph Cardillo
The Zen Way to the Martial Arts – Taisen Deshimaru
Other- Self-Improvement
Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less – Greg Mckeown
The ONE Thing: The surprisingly simple truth behind extraordinary results – Gary Keller
Eat, Move, Sleep: How small choices lead to big changes – Tom Rath
Mind Gym: An athlete’s guide to inner excellence – Gary Mack
The Way of the SEAL – Mark Divine