Dochu-no-sei means "calmness in action." Aikido training is a way to develop calmness in our daily lives. We must learn to maintain complete control over ourselves in all situations. Like the eye of a hurricane, we must be calm at the center to allow efficient action. If you go into the mountains to train yourself and learn calmness and unity with nature, you must maintain that state of mind upon returning to the city. Even if you reach the point where you think you can understand the birds, the animals, and everything else in the mountains, it is pointless if you lose your temper or poise when faced with the world's turmoil. Training yourself to be calm and collected in any situation so that you can decide and act correctly helps you control the first move.
Rod Kobayashi, Shodo-o-sesu, Seidokan Headquarters, 1986