"The groundwork of all happiness is health." - Leigh Hunt

How Martial Arts Can Improve Your Mental Health

Martial arts is an ancient fighting tradition practiced for self-defense, competition, and physical, mental, and spiritual development. The martial art began over 3,000 years ago in Sri Lanka and steadily spread to China, India, Korea, the West and the United States.

Martial arts teachers pass on the tradition from generation to generation, teaching the humanities of karate, kung fu, jiu-jitsu, aikido, taekwondo, judo and others. Although lots of these exercises involve throwing, kicking and punching, the physical side of those skills is simply one element.

Martial arts not only offer the chance to enhance your physical health, but in addition your mental health.

Relaxation. Martial arts will help reduce stress and anxiety by encouraging you to practice deep respiration, meditation, and mindfulness. It helps train your mind, keep your attention focused while remaining calm and alert. This will be especially helpful if you're trying to finish multiple tasks that occupy your attention.

Purpose of life. People who practice martial arts often feel a way of calm, confidence, and renewed peace with themselves and their purpose in life.

Physical movement. Practicing martial arts also provides a pleasant boost of “feel-good” chemicals like endorphins that lift your mood. And the more you master the craft, the more confidence you're prone to gain. It's a fantastic strategy to channel your energy and focus it on something positive that you may construct on over time.

Emotional regulation. By practicing martial arts you’ll be able to control your mind and emotions. This can provide help to develop greater emotional stability, assertiveness and self-confidence and reduce aggressive feelings.

Increased self-esteem. Just as exercise strengthens your body, challenges strengthen your mind. Martial arts will help by teaching you recuperate from setbacks and the importance of not letting life get you down, regardless of how hard things get.

Personal development. Martial arts encourage you to dig deep, discover where you're stuck, and overcome mental blocks. It helps you discover what you desire to improve in your life and offers you the arrogance to make positive changes.

Forgiveness and healing. Martial arts will help people set boundaries by redirecting feelings of powerlessness. It can empower you to search out inner strength and heal past trauma.

Finding the suitable martial arts practice can feel empowering and affirming, but what you get out of it is dependent upon how much effort you place in.

It's vital to keep in mind that while martial arts will be an efficient strategy to regulate and alter your emotions, they should not an alternative choice to mental health treatment.

If you might be experiencing distressing emotional experiences which can be affecting your ability to operate, it’s best to consider speaking with a licensed mental health skilled.