"Aiki is the power of harmony between all things
Polish it ceaselessly
You people of the Way
The great and honored God
Taught us the way to govern the world
By creating the 75 sounds (of the Kotodama).
In these teachings listen most
To the rhythm of the strike and thrust
To train in the basics (omote)
Is to practice the very secrets of the art.
Through the 75 movements of compassion
The events of this world
Evermore do flourish
Oh great and honored Deity!
With "Eiiii" cut him down!
That enemy that lurks within
Instruct him with "Yah"
Guide him with "Toh".
Blend the ki within the self (ki-musubi)
Stand erect in the very centre
Polish the spirit/mind (kokoro)"

Morehei Ueshiba, Post-War period writings

Bigo


“Generally, it is said that the main aspect of Aikido is “empty handed” technique. Instead the idea is advanced here that the main aspect is body movement. “Empty handed” means literally not holding anything. However, “empty handed” may perhaps also mean that even while holding a ken or jo one should not rely only upon the weapon. The person who can use a ken or jo as a part of his body will be able to do empty handed technique. For, in Aikido, it does not matter if the techniques are empty handed or if one is actually holding something.

It is hope that the concept of Riai has been understood. That is, ken, jo, and taijutsu movements have been combined from three parts into a single body. For instance, when holding a jo and facing an opponent who strikes with a ken, one must be able to control him. Conversely, when one holds a ken and faces an opponent with a jo the same is true. If both are without weapons, the attacker still must be controlled. If one bears in mind the above concepts, inconsistencies will not arise. One will be able to control an opponent without fail regardless of whether a weapon is involved or not providing the idea of body movement is grasped and understood. Emphasis on body movement unifies ken, jo and taijutsu techniques into a single Aikido.
It must be pointed out that too much dependence upon jo or ken is not a good idea and is to be avoided.
One must practice basic techniques until the jo and ken are felt to be part of the body. A minimum of two years practice of the basic suburi is recommended. One should by all means practice the tanren uchi exercise. These practices will develop a stability of the hips that is most necessary in taijutsu. Body movement must be accomplished from the hips.
Aikido is an art of non-resistance. In technique this is done through body movement. Body movement is developed through basic practices.”
Adapted from “Aikido” Volume II by Saito Sensei