People study martial arts for a variety of reasons. Some turn to the arts to build confidence, while others seek out the skills to defend themselves. Generally, physical activity provides positive effects on mental health and stability. That is why MMA athletes and coaches believe that the sport requires both the body and mind.
According to the Procedia – Social and Behavioral Sciences Journal, studies found a significant correlation between martial arts and self-confidence. Martial arts play a host of benefits that go beyond learning defense. In fact, a huge body of research shows that exercise can release the “feel food” chemicals into the brain, boosting your mood, concentration, self-esteem, and overall wellness. In this guide, we will explore how martial arts will benefit more than just your physical health.
Awareness of Emotion
Stress affects nearly 77% of Americans today, according to the American Psychological Association. As a result, a report 50% of Americans claim that stress plays a negative role in their personal and professional lives. In fact, stress-related conditions have cost the U.S. over $300 billion in health care, in 2017 alone. Through martial arts, you are taught to stay still and give your brain time to relax, analyze, and respond. By regulating your breathing and calming the mind, you can become aware of your emotions and help your mind to avoid dwelling on negative situations.
Builds Inner Confidence
Most physical activities encourage individuals to build self-confidence in one way or another. However, the balance of martial arts is built on the foundation of self-awareness and truth. Learning how to trust one’s own judgment is a pillar of all practices in the martial arts. When you begin to study, you will learn how to utilize your instincts and physical abilities, while gaining a stronger understanding of what your mind and body can do.
Positive Outlet for Negative Energy
The leftover adrenaline in your body can trigger your ‘fight or flight’ response, especially if you struggle with an anxiety disorder. Similar to how meditation and tarot reading allows you to focus your thoughts, you will learn how to release the negative energy of fear, sadness, anxiety, and stress. Through training, you will know how to work through such feelings and conquer them successfully.
Martial Arts is great for boosting one’s mental and physical health. The most important benefit that martial arts offer is one’s emotional awareness and control. Unlike other sports that enhance aggression, martial arts calls for introspection and positivity as a powerful tool. With that, trainers can use it to their advantage both inside and outside the ring.
