I’m beyond thrilled to share this episode with you, as it marks the return of a truly exceptional teacher, artist, and now, published author under a major press.
Richard Moon Sensei is here to discuss his brand-new book, Quantum Aikido: The Power of Harmony, being released today, January 6th!
As many of you know from our first conversation, Moon Sensei possesses a background that is nothing short of cinematic.
Training for over 55 years (mostly under Robert Nadeau Shihan, one of the few ‘westerners’ to study directly with O Sensei), his story stretches far beyond the mat; from the early psychedelic days hanging with Ram Dass and Timothy Leary, all the way to international peace work, participating in a major mediation project between Greek and Turkish Cypriot leaders.
If you missed it, I highly suggest you check out this prior episode to hear more about his fascinating ‘origin story.’ [prior episode]
When I first heard the title, Quantum Aikido, I have to be honest—I was hesitant. I usually shy away from anything labeled “Quantum,” fearing it might be too scientistic for my taste. However, the way Moon Sensei relates these high-level physics concepts to the visceral experience of Aikido has completely shifted my perspective. At least in this particular case.
I finished reading the book the night before we spoke, and I can tell you personally, this is not a book you read once and put on the shelf. It’s dense with wisdom and written in a lurid, musical, prose that you need to sit with, digest, and revisit many many (many) times.
Moon Sensei applies insights of quantum mechanics—concepts like wave-particle duality and the unified field theory—to the heart-centered depths of Aikido principles including, but not limited to: musubi and takemusu aiki.
The book explores how the dualism of conflicting opposites is an illusion; instead, reality emanates from a unified field. The techniques we practice in the dojo are the “dust after the action.” The true study is what O-Sensei called the “realization of love” and the “Aikido that cannot be seen by the human eye.”
Moon Sensei’s gift is unlocking our potential as human beings. He suggests that by harmonizing the discord in our own ‘selves’, we can tap into energetic sources that guide us to resolving problems with spontaneous creativity.
I’m learning more and more how Aikido is not just about throwing people across the mat (although, that is so much fun); it’s the facilitation of an inter-dimensional shift in consciousness that transforms life from a struggle into a dance.
Moon Sensei teaches us to surf the universal waves of change rather than fighting against them, using a spirit of reconciliation to allow every being the completion of their “bestowed mission.”
Of course, we spent some time ruminating on the ‘Floating Bridge of Heaven,’ that mysterious immaterial zone of creation where complementary opposites seem to unite in a state of creative harmony, connecting to the single source from which everything emanates.
We also discuss how we can learn to “feel better”—not just in the sense of seeking pleasant sensations,, but also in the sense of increasing sensitivity to the energy of life, allowing us to act with greater intelligence and compassion.
I’m incredibly grateful to have connected with Richard Moon Sensei. His influence on my own life and practice over the past year has been nothing but positive. His way of “learning out loud” makes you feel like a fellow explorer on the edge of the known universe rather than just a thirsty student.
Whether discussing the “thalamic pause” (a conscious gap before reacting) or how a perfect musical interval can mirror a perfect Aikido blend, his insights have provided me with tools to stay centered amidst the abstract terrors of modern society.
Quantum Aikido, bridges ancient wisdom and the cutting-edge science of today. It’s a guide for anyone looking to cultivate a beautiful world through the art of peace and harmony.
Check it out here!
