We all know that practicing martial arts has a significant impact on our physical health. The mental health benefits are often not really explored or highlighted. It is counterintuitive at the surface level, but martial arts actually help people to lead calmer, more self-possessed lives. One of the main reasons is that the discipline fosters mindfulness. In fact, martial arts can be especially helpful for people who struggle with attention or have trouble focusing, including with ADHD type disorders. Martial arts foster concentration skills in people
Evidence of the effectiveness of martial arts training in producing affective, cognitive and behavioral benefits which includes improvement in self-esteem, a more positive response to physical challenge, greater autonomy, emotional stability and assertiveness, and reductions in anxiety and depression. These behavioral changes, particularly the relationship between martial arts practice and aggression, also bring about social benefits.
Contrary to popular belief, the more one immerses oneself in practicing martial arts, one does not get more violent or prone to fighting. On the other hand, one becomes less impulsive and aggressive towards others after having practiced martial arts for a longer period of time. Some martial arts (especially those of the Eastern tradition) have in-build rules and customs that emphasizes and reminds students of the right attitude (i.e. respect for each other), frame of mind, and virtues to strive for, within and outside the dojo or training hall.
These benefits are a consequence of enhanced self-regulation – historically known in martial arts as self-control – developing will and discipline. Willpower is considered important not only for enabling the student to continue with arduous training but also for improving personality and performance inside and outside the training arena; consistent training itself, coupled with a sincere attitude towards the moral principles of martial arts, contributes to strengthening willpower – a two-way process between the martial arts and the student involved in the process whereby ‘one exerts oneself in the perfection of character’ (Rule No. 5 from Dojo Kun, Japan Karate Association, 2009)
Finally, practicing martial arts helps empower the practitioner. The training and activities in practicing martial arts help people process their trauma and redirect feelings of powerlessness. Mastering a martial art can allows a safe space for someone who was previously victimized feel more in control. It also teaches people to establish and defend healthy boundaries. Learning martial arts helps people learn to avoid fights. Martial arts give people the skills to manage their adrenaline and control their fight or flight responses.
