Martial Arts Therapy: A Form Of Healing

Sports & RecreationsSports

  • Author Melissa Adamson
  • Published April 22, 2011
  • Word count 523

People are now finally beginning to realize the vast benefits that martial arts has to offer. Because of its positive effects, there is now a term called Martial Arts Therapy referring to the use of different martial art forms as an alternative or complementary therapy for a medical disorder. Medical disorders encompasses problems concerning the body or the mind. Therapy sessions may involve various types of martial arts such Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Taichi, Gracie Jiu Jitsu, Mixed Martial Arts, Aikido, Karate, Judo, Muay Thai, Kickboxing, and Wrestling to promote kineasthetic balance among others.

Though we recognize that the foremost benefit we can get from any martial arts form is the ability to defend oneself, the numerous health benefits of martial arts are also worth knowing. These health benefits range from muscle strengthening to stress release. Karate and kung fu, for instance, help in the improvement of the cardiovascular health of the individuals. Muay Thai, wrestling, and judo, on the other hand, tones the different muscle groups in the body. Other forms, such as Thai kick boxing, contribute in improving the body flexibility.

Another important practice of martial arts that is of importance to therapeutic conditions is the practice of calisthenic exercises. Calisthenic exercises are light exercises which promote general fitness. These type of exercise also help in improving one's stamina. Because the basic tenet of martial arts is the proper utilization of energy and strength, any form of martial arts then is known to increase your energy levels.

A number of studies show that people aging 40 and above who attend regular sessions of any form of martial arts are seen to have higher levels of over all body fitness. They also tend to have stronger immune system as well as improved strength, flexibility, and balance and coordination between the mind and the body. The hard style routines characteristic of karate, taekwondo, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Taichi, Gracie Jiu Jitsu, Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), Karate, Judo, Muay Thai, Kickboxing, and Wrestling comprise of aerobic and cardiovascular workout. Soft style routines, on the other hand, focus on flexibility of the body as well as its balance and control.

Weight loss is another positive outcome brought about by extended cardiovascular activity. However, you need to undergo continuous martial arts training to achieve this.

Some say that the effects of martial arts training are somewhat the same as those we get from sports. However, they are not the same. Martial arts differ from sports in that the former is more capable of improving social and psychological well-being. In concrete terms, martial arts tend to strive toward self-control and self-knowledge, while most of sports programs are focus solely on competition between individuals and groups.

It cannot be denied that martial arts foster physical and psychosocial benefits. Not only does it help people have fun way to exercise, it also helps medical professionals in treating medical patients. Still the concept of martial arts therapy is one which is still in development. Whatever happens though, we are sure that regular sessions of this activity will keep us healthy.

Evolution Martial Arts

14436 N Dale Mabry Hwy

Tampa, FL 33618

(813) 961-5245

www.graciebarraevolution.com

Contributor and web content writer for various websites for over 3 years. www.graciebarraevolution.com

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