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…start your martial arts journey here!

…a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step

This is a common saying that originated from a famous Chinese proverb; the quotation is from Chapter 64 of the Tao Te Ching ascribed to Laozi.

Assuming that you have taken the first step and decided to train in the martial arts I suggest that there are a few other steps that you might consider before starting to train.

Step two: Are you looking for a martial art or some kind of martial sport? A true martial art will focus on defending yourself, and / or others, against one or more aggressors rather than focusing on competition.

Step three: Which martial art?? A lot of people get hung up on which is the best martial art or the best style. I could write a book about this but the simple answer is that it’s all down to the instructor. It is said that there is no such thing as a bad martial art just poor instruction…

Step four: Do some research. Don’t be afraid to use friends and family for this and, of course, check stuff out online…try and read through website gloss and fluff, for example, how many martial arts the instructor(s) may have black belts in, or, how many black belts the instructors may have. Create a short list of dojo that pique your interest.

Step five: Visit the dojo! This is by far the most important step, it is important that you feel comfortable with the instructor and dojo…so, pop in and check them out. Don’t be shy or intimidated, have a chat with the instructor and be sure to ask any questions that you might have. Also, don’t be pressured into making an immediate decision or tempted by cheap starter packages.

Step six: Reflect on what you’ve seen. Don’t be afraid to ask more questions or even change your mind about what you want, you could even revisit one or more dojo. Next, try and make a decision…

Step seven: Trial arrange a trial session with your selected dojo and go and enjoy!

All being well the above simple steps have helped you find your perfect dojo…if they haven’t, don’t be afraid to rinse and repeat until you do.

There’s a lot of discussion and snobbery around the authenticity of a martial art style, if you’re a martial arts novice I would ignore all of that…it’s more important to find an instructor / dojo that you’re happy to train with.

Happy dojo hunting

Empowering Recovery: The Therapeutic Benefits of Jujutsu for PTSD

Introduction

Martial arts, with their holistic approach to physical and mental wellbeing, have emerged as powerful tools in aiding individuals coping with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Among the various disciplines, Jujutsu stands out for its emphasis on controlled movements, mindfulness, and empowerment. This ancient Japanese martial art offers a unique therapeutic avenue for individuals seeking to regain control over their bodies and minds in the aftermath of traumatic experiences

Why can Jujutsu help those with PTSD?

Jujutsu, at its core, fosters a sense of self-discipline and resilience, crucial elements in the journey toward PTSD recovery. The controlled and deliberate nature of Jujutsu techniques provides practitioners with a safe space to confront and process their emotions. The martial art’s focus on redirecting and diffusing energy can translate into tangible benefits for PTSD sufferers, helping them manage the physical and emotional manifestations of their condition. Through regular practice, individuals gradually learn to navigate their internal struggles, developing a heightened sense of self-awareness and emotional regulation.

The structured environment of a Jujutsu class also serves as a supportive community, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie. This communal aspect can be particularly beneficial for PTSD survivors who may experience isolation or difficulty connecting with others. The non-competitive nature of Jujutsu encourages a collaborative spirit, creating an environment where individuals can share their experiences without judgment.

In addition to the psychological benefits, the physical demands of Jujutsu contribute to overall well-being. The emphasis on flexibility, strength, and balance enhances the body’s resilience, promoting a healthier lifestyle. The meditative aspects of Jujutsu, including controlled breathing and mindfulness, further contribute to stress reduction and improved mental clarity.

Empowerment Through Control

Jujutsu provides a controlled environment for individuals to confront and manage their emotions, empowering them to regain control over their lives.

Community Support

The communal nature of Jujutsu classes fosters a supportive community, offering a sense of belonging and understanding for individuals with PTSD.

Physical Resilience

Jujutsu’s focus on physical fitness enhances overall well-being, promoting resilience and a healthier lifestyle.

Mental Clarity

The meditative aspects of Jujutsu, including controlled breathing and mindfulness, contribute to stress reduction and improved mental clarity.

Non-Competitive Atmosphere

Jujutsu’s non-competitive nature encourages collaboration rather than rivalry, creating a safe space for individuals to share their experiences.

Holistic Healing

By addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of trauma, Jujutsu offers a holistic approach to healing, supporting individuals on their journey to recovery from PTSD.

    Empowering Confidence through Jujutsu: A Personal Journey

    Martial arts, particularly the ancient Japanese discipline of Jujutsu, goes beyond physical combat, serving as a transformative tool for building confidence and self-assurance. This journey becomes especially poignant when considering personal experiences, such as overcoming bullying at school. The profound impact of jujutsu lies not only in its physical aspects but in the mental and emotional fortitude it fosters.

    In the face of bullying, the practice of Jujutsu becomes a refuge, offering a sanctuary for personal growth. The discipline and self-control instilled in Jujutsu training become a lifeline, providing a foundation for rebuilding confidence after enduring the challenges of bullying. Through the controlled and deliberate movements of Jujutsu techniques, individuals like myself can regain a sense of agency over their bodies and minds.

    Jujutsu’s emphasis on technique and leverage over brute force is particularly empowering for those who have faced adversity. As I navigated the journey of Jujutsu, I discovered a problem-solving mindset that extended far beyond the dojo walls. The ability to overcome opponents with finesse and creativity became a metaphor for overcoming the challenges of bullying, instilling in me a newfound confidence in my ability to face and conquer life’s obstacles.

    The sense of community within the Jujutsu dojo played a pivotal role in my confidence-building journey. It provided not only a supportive environment but also a network of like-minded individuals who understood the struggles I faced. The camaraderie within the martial arts community became a source of strength, fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance that countered the isolation often experienced by victims of bullying.

    In essence, my personal journey with Jujutsu is a testament to its transformative power. Through discipline, technique mastery, community support, and the resilience gained from overcoming bullying, I not only rebuilt my confidence but also emerged stronger and more empowered than ever before.

    Discipline and Self-Control

    Jujutsu instils discipline and self-control, providing a foundation for rebuilding confidence in the aftermath of bullying by helping individuals regain control over their bodies and minds.

    Problem-Solving Mindset

    The emphasis on technique and leverage in Jujutsu fosters a problem-solving mindset, offering a metaphorical framework for overcoming challenges, both on the mat and in personal life.

    Community Support

    The communal aspect of Jujutsu training provides a supportive environment that counters the isolation often felt after bullying, fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance.

    Mastery and Self-Assurance

    Through continual refinement of techniques, individuals develop a deep understanding of their capabilities, leading to a profound sense of self-assurance, particularly crucial for those rebuilding confidence after bullying.

    Resilience and Adaptability

    Jujutsu training imparts resilience and adaptability, skills that extend beyond physical combat and empower individuals to face and conquer life’s obstacles, including the effects of bullying.

    Positive Social Interaction

    The camaraderie within the Jujutsu community becomes a source of strength, offering a network of like-minded individuals who understand the struggles faced, counteracting the isolation often experienced by victims of bullying.