Martial arts such as Karate, Taekwondo, and Kung Fu have been practiced for hundreds of years. They’re not just about learning self-defence but also about improving your body and mind. Recently, people have discovered that martial arts can be helpful for mental health too! They can reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and even sadness.
Let’s dive into how martial arts can boost your mental health and make you feel stronger inside and out.
Staying Focused: Mindfulness in Martial Arts
Martial arts teach you something called mindfulness. This means paying close attention to what you’re doing in the present moment. For example, when you practice a kick or punch, you must stay focused on your body and your breathing.
Mindfulness helps calm your mind, making it easier to handle big emotions like worry or anger. When you’re mindful, you learn to control your reactions and stay peaceful, even during tough situations.
Exercise Makes You Feel Good
When you practice martial arts, you’re exercising your body. Exercise makes your brain release special chemicals called endorphins. These chemicals are like little happiness boosters that help you feel good and reduce stress.
Exercise also helps you sleep better at night. Good sleep is super important for feeling happy and healthy.
Making Friends and Feeling Connected
Many martial arts schools feel like one big family. You train with others, encourage each other, and celebrate successes together. Being part of a supportive group can make you feel less alone.
If you’ve ever felt lonely, joining a martial arts class can help you meet new friends and feel like you belong.
Setting Goals and Feeling Proud
In martial arts, you work towards goals, like earning a new belt. Setting goals gives you something to look forward to, and when you achieve them, you feel proud of yourself.
This sense of accomplishment can boost your confidence and remind you that you’re capable of amazing things.
Learning Discipline and Self-Control
Martial arts also teach discipline, which means sticking to rules and practicing regularly. For example, you learn to stay calm and focused, even if you feel frustrated.
This skill is helpful in everyday life, whether you’re doing homework, solving a problem, or trying to stay patient with others.
Feeling Strong and Confident
One of the best things about martial arts is how it makes you feel stronger. When you practice self-defence, you know you can protect yourself if needed. This builds confidence and makes you feel more in control of your life.
For people who sometimes feel small or helpless, this can be life changing.
Martial Arts and Mental Health: A Perfect Match
While martial arts can’t replace help from a doctor or therapist, they can be an awesome addition. Martial arts improve your physical health, help calm your mind and connect you with others.
If you’re interested in trying martial arts, look for a beginner’s class near you. Start slow and practice regularly. You’ll be amazed at how much it can help both your body and your mind.
Want to Learn More?
Check out these books to explore how martial arts help with mental health:
- “The Art of Peace” by Morihei Ueshiba – A classic about finding calm and balance through martial arts.
- “Zen in the Martial Arts” by Joe Hyams – Easy-to-read lessons about mindfulness and self-discipline.
- “The Warrior Within” by John Little – A book about Bruce Lee’s teachings on mental strength and focus – the most insightful and informative.
- “Martial Arts & Mental Health: How they help us heal & grow” by Gareth FitzGerald – The book shows how martial arts can increase self-confidence, self-esteem, physical fitness and mental abilities.
With martial arts, you’re not just learning to defend yourself – you’re learning to live your best life. Why not give it a try? If you have any question, or would like to improve your self-confidence, your self-esteem, your physical fitness and mental abilities, feel free to contact me.
Author: Nenad Bakaj, MHumServ (RehabCouns), BSocWk, DipAppSci (Comm&HumServ), AMHSW, MAAC, MAASW, JP (Qld)
Nenad Bakaj is a Brisbane based Clinical Counsellor, Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Life Coach and Bigger Bite Out Of Life Trainer with a keen interest in positive psychology, mental health and wellbeing, and is continually developing his professional skills and knowledge. Nenad enjoys working with adolescents and young adults, as well as older clients, and feels it is a privilege to be able to support them.