What is Aikido?
Aikido is a powerful system of self-defense founded by Morihei Ueshiba (1883 - 1969). Aikido's techniques use the circular motions that blend with the energy of the attacker, rather than physical strength. This blending makes Aikido a effective and and ethical system of Self Defense. Effective meaning that the techniques work in keeping an individual safe when attacked by a violent assailant, and ethical in that they do so with the minimum of injury to the attacker as required in the given situation.
As important as it is, self-defense is only the beginning of the knowledge gained through Aikido training. The example of Aikido founder Morihei Ueshiba's (O Sensei "Great Teacher") amazing abilities offers an inspiring vision of the great potential every individual possesses for personal growth and 
development. The highest level of Aikido practice is what Ueshiba labeled "Take Musu Aiki". Take Musu Aiki is a peak performance state of consciousness in which an individual spontaneously and intuitively makes the right move at the right time.
People begin Aikido, and ultimately move on to pursue mastery of the art, because they find it makes their lives better. Through Aikido training they are more capable of meeting challenges in every part of their lives with grace and poise. Their bodies become strong and fit. They develop the tools for transforming conflicts from adversity into opportunity. Attending Aikido classes leaves people feeling renewed, revitalized and more capable of resolving life's difficulties. Stress is reduced as individuals become more confident in their ability to not only stay safe, but in fact to create the life they've only dreamed of living. As O Sensei said, "Aikido is not a technique to fight with or to defeat the enemy. It is a way to reconcile the world and make human beings one family."