Freeform aikido is a rich source of laughter.

I am delighted by how much I and others laugh while practicing. In fact, on reflection it could be one of my main reasons for practicing. Laughing in practice has many of the qualities of ki-ai – releasing tension and expressing bound energy. It also has a strong capacity to bond – aiki. I am not surprised that laughing has been ascribed so may health benefits, or that O-sensei exhorted people to practice in a “vibrant and joyful manner”.

Laughter in practice comes not so much from being a witness to the absurd, but from being a fully immersed part of it!