I don’t know about y’all, but this has been quite the surreal past 16 months for me. While there are silver linings to be found, I think it is safe to say that we have all been hit with bouts of dealing with our own mental health and well-being while nimbly navigating and adjusting as needed. For those who may still be crawling out of this cave—we invite to try Jiu Jitsu.
A Problem Solving Practice
“The National Alliance on Mental Illness estimates that nearly 19 percent of U.S. adults experience mental illness in a given year. For 1 in 25 adults in the United States, that illness will substantially interfere with daily life and activities, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.”
So much of Jiu Jitsu is a powerful grappling with one’s own mind to determine which tools to employ at any given moment. We learn SO MUCH in each and every class. Our minds (and bodies) have to pull these techniques from this tool box at the right times. People have been found to often catch themselves rolling** with their eyes closed and going purely off of their following their opponent and searching for the right defense or offense. This regular practice gives us the ability to more calmly react in stressful situations. In class we do put ourselves in uncomfortable situations which triggers the brain and body on how to survive. This translates to building that part of our brain to know how to handle when triggered in real-life stressful situations.
“Small movements can make the biggest difference”
One small thing that I have learned on the mat that has had a direct impact on aspects of life was a simple lesson from Professor Rodrigo: Small movements can make the biggest difference. Sometimes you are so smashed by an opponent that macro movements are impossible. We learn that sometimes it’s the small wiggle or tiny pull that creates space and opportunity for the next move. So true in life, right! I try to remember this often when I feel backed into a corner. Sometimes we have to think small.
For those of you who haven’t given Jiu Jitsu a try, we invite you to the mat. Our community is safe and welcoming to new comers. Each of our veteran students continue to learn and thrive from new students—so get on over and try! OSS!
In health and fitness,
Susan, 43, Mother of 5, Blue Belt, Scorpio