Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is one of the fastest growing martial arts in the world and has seen a particularly steep increase in the number of female participants, like those in the United Arab Emirates, whose national team manager reported that there are more than 47,000 Emirati females practicing the martial art across the country. As a student of Jiu Jitsu, you’ll likely understand that way in which it offers you the chance to engage in unique experiences that trigger rich and fulfilling psychological as well as physical changes, but just how deep do those changes go in aiding mental development and stability?
The Physicality of Jiu-Jitsu & How It Aids in Mental Strength
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu often differs from other forms of martial arts in that you are trained to fight face-to-face pretty much from the first day. The pure physical contact that Jiu Jitsu requires of its students is one of the key components of why it triggers such deep emotional fortitude. The physical contact allows your brain to release neurochemicals such as oxytocin (yes, the chemical you release when you cuddle with someone you love) that make you more aware, focused and connected to yourself as well as others.
Trained Focus & the Benefits of Alertness
Because you’re training your body to react in fight-or-flight situations, you are increasing the amount of adrenaline and cortisol released which help to enhance your focus and awareness as well. You’ll notice an increase in your heart rate and a desire to focus on your breathing as well as your surroundings, and this type of heightened awareness is something found in modern-day meditation practices. In meditation, you are taught to be attentive of your surroundings as well as your sensations, and the alertness that allows you to experience a sense of calm and feelings of mental control is similar to the ones experienced in Jiu Jitsu.
Long-Lasting Benefits of Jiu-Jitsu on Women
Regardless of the physical or emotional reasons behind pursuing Jiu-Jitsu training, the decision to engage in physical contact martial arts is a great way to build strength in more ways than one. Training your mind and body to react in a calculated, focused manner not only prepares you for situations in which you want to dominate but allows you to slowly feel more in control of your life in other areas as well. The sisterhood found in Jiu Jitsu is long-lasting and pairs you with like-minded women looking to enhance their mental and physical strength while also modeling good, strong behavior for generations to come.