Is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu good for mental health?

Something strange happens when you begin training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ); you rapidly realise that a cerebral focus is often the most critical component when it comes to mastering the gentle art of BJJ. Rather than focusing on the cheap rush of learning to apply chokes and execute throws, you will yearn for a greater understanding of the underlying principles of the techniques. More specifically, through honing these concepts and pressure testing them on the tatami, you learn that the human mind is the most powerful asset we possess.

We can understand the ever-growing popularity of BJJ around the world, particularly with veterans returning to civilian life and why training BJJ is an excellent method of tackling a number of mental issues. Although we know that the sport enthuses many people for reasons of physical enjoyment, let us take a close look at other reasons as to why the popularity of BJJ continues to grow.

The Increasing Importance of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

While BJJ was once known as an aggressive form of training, it now appears that the underlying principles of this art are incredibly appealing to the masses. Needless to say; you can now find jiu-jitsu everywhere. Moreover, many of these classes are designed to accommodate children which indicates the rising level of acceptance from parents.

At the same time, there is every reason for this level of acceptance. After all, learning BJJ is a great way to instil confidence, discipline, and respect in children and adults alike. With this in mind, we can begin to understand how practising the underlying principles of BJJ is just as crucial to the brain, as the physical activity is to the body.

The more time you spend on the mats, the more you understand how the underlying principles of jiu-jitsu have just as much relevance to mental health as they have to physical prowess. The truth is, most people initially pursue BJJ as a means of physical exercise or self-defence only to find that the skills they are obtaining are applicable in all aspects of their daily lives.

Jiu-Jitsu and Mental Health Problems

Take stress; as an example; studying and practising BJJ is an excellent way to reduce stress levels. Unfortunately, this is not well known, and most don't understand that stress and mental health issues are hormonal responses which have a powerful impact on the nervous system. This impact has consequences on physical health also.

The initial cause of the stress can vary, high caffeine intake, an unbalanced diet, excessive alcohol consumption and drug taking can leave the body in a vulnerable state. Relieving stress-related illnesses is often a matter of reducing the impact of these causes and finding a healthier alternative.

And this is why BJJ is so essential. In a time when the online world and constant distractions are aiding in the rise of stress and mental health problems, the principles and requirements of BJJ are a blueprint for combating these issues.

Jiu-Jitsu as an Emotional Outlet

Many people are in the habit of seeking out detrimental coping mechanisms, such a night out drinking with friends, or over-indulging on their favourite Ben & Jerry's ice cream, training BJJ is a far better emotional outlet or stress release.

Given these are somewhat minor mechanisms, some may also seek out life-threatening avenues, and this where the tools, principles and community BJJ provides comes into play. BJJ requires a great deal of concentration and dedication while keeping an open mind is essential to ongoing development as a BJJ practitioner. Physical exercise is a well known natural means of battling mental health issues and relieving stress.

Tackling Mental Health Problems with BJJ

As previously stated, practising BJJ is not merely a means of self-defence; the gentle art is a way of life and one that nurtures mental health through principles, discipline and the BJJ community.

Something strange happens when you put on a BJJ GI and become a member of the community, as the body begins to take shape, you should also understand that the real benefits of practising this discipline are within the mind and the greater sense of purpose it provides.

Book your free trial at the Northern Beaches Academy in Cromer, and have a chat with Head Instructor Jack Cox to hear why he describes Jiu-Jitsu as his therapy.