I have a confession to make…
I have a very addictive & expensive habit.
It’s true! Every waking hour of my life is consumed by my habit. When I wake up in the mornings, the first thing I’m thinking about is my habit. I work a full time job just to support my habit and in the evenings, I’m usually in a state of euphoria through my habit.
Now, before you get the wrong idea, those of you that know me, will know me well enough to realise that my habit is neither illegal nor dangerous, Infact it’s the complete opposite. It puts me on a natural high and in a state of conscious alertness that comes from years of training and mental discipline. The habit that I’m referring to is the martial arts…
No matter what sort of a day I’ve had, practicing the martial arts always seems to have a soothing effect on my mind and a way of making me forget life’s problems. It puts my mind in the present moment and in touch with my inner self. It’s my form of meditation, the only difference being, that I express it through physical motion. When I immerse myself in my own personal training something very unique happens, it’s as if the whole world stands still and time is almost non existent, I’m in a zone, and in this zone I become in touch with my inner self. It’s a feeling of elation and freedom that comes from years of practicing the martial arts.
Just the other day I had a conversation with my training partner, we were talking about the corporate world and how there are many people out there that are actually unhappy with their present circumstances. Many people go to a job that they don’t enjoy, simply because they have to and have no other choice, and yet others seem to relish in the fact, that they are slaves to the corporate world. These people that relish their jobs, are often what I refer to as lost souls, they don’t have a passion for anything else in their lives but their jobs. They seem to get to work before anyone else and are usually the last ones to leave. On weekends these very same people drink their lives away, and then come into work on Monday to tell their stories about how they got wasted.
Now… the reason why I raise this is because as human beings, we all need to have an outlet in life, something that disperses the stresses of everyday life. Some people will take to alcohol and drugs while others find a healthier alternative, in the form of physical exercise. Physical exercise is one of the best ways to improve your mood through the natural release of chemicals in the brain known as endorphins. These endorphins have a euphoric effect which leaves you on a natural high. Exercise also helps to fight against chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, obesity, stress and dementia. It also helps you manage your weight and boosts low energy levels. Exercise often promotes a better night’s sleep which in turn leads to greater concentration and focus throughout the day. Exercise has also been known to put the spark back into your sex life and finally it can be a lot of fun.
One of the best forms of exercise is the practice of martial arts
Martial arts training, unlike any other form of exercise engages the mind and allows you to express the human body while being in the present moment. It is in essence a form of yoga only that it’s done with a little more intensity. The martial arts not only conditions the body, but also allows you to release the stresses of the day. It’s unlike any other form of physical exercise in that you’re learning about different cultures, your learning to develop superior physical skills, developing greater confidence and self esteem, a focused mind and an overall level of improved fitness.
One of the best forms of martial arts that constantly challenges the mind and body, is Bruce Lees Jeet Kune Do. Jeet Kune Do is the razors edge in martial arts technology, based on both physics and science. It represents the essence of health and fitness and is a fun, mind engaging activity. Jeet Kune Do is the ultimate in high performance training that needs to be cultivated through disciplined training over a period of time, but the end results are very well worth it.
Until next Time, take care.
Sifu Arthur
