When most people refer to martial arts, they have in mind action movies with impressive moves, disarmament, action etc. Sure this is an impressive part of martial arts, but it is not the crucial one. Among other things, martial arts can improve your spiritual strength, change your outlook on life, teach you to adapt to different situations and improve your social life. Exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle together with a balanced diet. These two things help us lead a happy life. In addition to these it is important to remember to relax too and have some fun. Do the things you enjoy, go for long walks in a park, listen to the music you like, play video games, or spend some time at online casino.
What are the fundamental benefits of practicing martial arts, in addition to the obvious ones?
- Spiritual power
Successful martial arts practice requires a great deal of mental and spiritual strength. Some of the more traditional principles of martial arts – such as indomitable spirit and perseverance – emphasize the importance of battle through predetermined boundaries. Discipline can be the most important trait that leads to success in martial arts. Knowing that you have a challenge is in itself an important life skill that will serve many other areas of your life.
Another important aspect of martial arts is accepting and controlling your emotions. In martial arts, you will feel anger, fear, frustration, and anxiety at some point. The way you deal with these emotions will help you grow mentally and handle similar emotions and situations outside of training such as at work and with friends, family, etc.
- Mental Health
Mental health issues have become increasingly apparent in recent years in Western societies, and their understanding is also increasing. Many mental health issues can be addressed with simple exercise, but martial arts can add many more benefits. Studies have shown how martial arts can help in more complex situations such as addiction and autism.
Adults can also help achieve a sense of purpose and motivation to move forward: We are naturally made to have goals, and this is an important part of the process of happiness.
And of course, as with any physical activity, practicing martial arts is a great way to relieve stress – that alone is a great reason to consider trying some martial arts.
- Social life
At older ages, it can be very difficult for some to find people with similar interests and friends. Martial arts are a great place to meet young people, from all social backgrounds, where a common interest in their art helps build strong friendships. Strong friendships are constantly formed in martial arts schools, where going through common difficult tests – such as the various belt exams – can really lead to the formation of new social bonds.
- Physical condition
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that only 1 in 5 adults meets the physical activity guidelines set for improving well-being. Understandably, exercise has significant benefits. It can help you control your weight, reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes, certain cancers and more. Exercise alone can help improve your mental health and mood, strengthen your bones and muscles, and improve your chances of living a healthier life.
Although different martial arts vary in levels of strenuous physical activity, they can all improve your fitness. With obesity rates so high, more and more adults need to find a physical activity they enjoy in order to keep their health under control. Martial arts can be a source of enjoyable exercise, and can be pursued with interest for many years, even to older ages!
- Protect yourself
Last but not least! In most martial arts you really learn how to protect yourself from acts of violence! The sense of security and confidence and the ability to calm down in the face of the danger you can acquire from these basic skills, is invaluable.
Practicing martial arts can help you in every level and aspect of your life, physically, psychologically, mentally, spiritually, and socially. It will contribute to a healthier mind in a healthier body. Martial art practise centers may turn out to be the place where you will form some of the best friendships in your life. It does not matter what your age is, you can always start practicing but of course in every case, check first with your doctor for any potential restrictions or issues you could have.
