This maieutic technique draws out more from an attack. It is particularly powerful to use when confronted with a strong emotion like anger. Keep your Ki-no Nagare short. The attack tends to subside or at least reduce in intensity after a few applications.

In contrast to most other forms of Irimi, Ki-no Nagare is often not a question, although “Is there anything else?” or “Can you give me an example?” have the same intention. For a more congruent physical posture, you can accompany this technique with a hand movement, gesturing as you would in indicating someone to “come over here” subtly. Sometimes it can be enough to use a few variants to go from a potential conflict to a conversation…

Partner: “This report is just awful!”

Practitioner: “I’m listening…”

Partner: “Well, it’s really not up to the quality we expect at all!”

Practitioner: “Tell me about that.”

Partner: “Well for a start you put the wrong dates and some of the names are misspelt…”

Practitioner: “I see, so what else do you think it needs?”

It is important to note that a mechanical use of Irimi can be counter-productive or lead to exchanges becoming sterile. This can occur if you just accompany the attack without creating an opening for an Aiki (Posture 3) and using it.

Partner: “This report is just awful!”

Practitioner: “And…?”

Partner: “And there’s so much to be corrected in it!”

Practitioner: “And…?”

Partner: “[***] And, well, it’s due for tomorrow!”

Practitioner: “Well, let’s get started!” (Ai-ki)

([***] indicates a destabilization or opening in the exchange)

Examples of the Technique “Ki-no Nagare” (Let the energy flow)

I’m listening…

Please, do elaborate.

OK, I see. Do carry on…

Tell me more about that…

What else do you feel/see/think?

Would you like to expand on that?

Is there something else (you want to tell me/share)?

Is there anything else you’d like me to know/understand?

Basic 2 move: Ki-no Nagare

Introduction to Verbal Aikido®

Basic 2 move: Ki-no Nagare