Many times, people think Jiu-Jitsu is solely for self-defense and learning how to fight, but this is not the case. Jiu-Jitsu promotes amazing mental health benefits. Whenever the entire mind and body are fully engaged in martial arts, this helps to gently massage out any stress hormones and any residue of chaotic emotions. When the body is able to rest after a workout like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, or BJJ, the mind will automatically follow.
Mental Health Benefits of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
You don’t have to look too hard to find all the surface-level benefits of Jiu-Jitsu. But don’t be too quick to overlook the positive impact it can have on your mental health as well. A popular discipline of Martial Arts is to help combat anxiety, depression, and chronic stress. BJJ, the gentle art, helps to train a person’s mind to stay focused on only the present moment and begin to control their racing thoughts.
The Physical Aspect of Exercise
The physical activity done in Jiu-Jitsu helps to release endorphins into the body. Endorphins are the body’s all-natural painkillers. When you feel pain, these hormones are released to alleviate that feeling. Not only does this help reduce any anxiety and depression, but it gives the entire mind and body a euphoric feeling. Our bodies need to move, especially to release any built-up tension, and BJJ is perfect because you are releasing excess stress while learning how to defend yourself.
Mental Health is Key to Having A Great Mind
Jiu Jitsu has been gaining a greater reputation in the mental health community. You may have heard that exercise is a mental health booster, and there is plenty of evidence to support this claim. One study that was published found that physical activity can reduce symptoms of mild to moderate depression and anxiety while also supporting the work done with a therapist. The results from that study suggested that exercise can improve self-image, social skills, confidence, and cognitive functioning as well.
While yes almost any form of physical exercise can promote these mental health benefits, many people do not enjoy things like going for a jog or lifting weights in a traditional gym setting. Training in martial arts, such as Jiu-Jitsu, provides a fun and interactive way to get your body moving with a group of people. The set schedule within each BJJ class helps to build accountability as well as form friendships. This helps people look forward to being a part of a supportive and interactive community. So it’s not a chore to come to class but rather a fun reward to see friends and enjoy their time.
Begin Your BJJ Training Today
We’d love to help you use BJJ for mental health gains. At Performance Jiu Jitsu, you will start to see a drastic improvement in your mental wellness from the very first class. From releasing stress and building confidence to forming new friendships and being able to get a full night’s rest, you will be asking yourself why you did not begin to practice BJJ sooner. Contact us today to get your free trial class. Come on in! Join the fun and fitness and become a part of our family.