LEO & DANIELLE DA SILVA -
As parents we understand our responsibility to our children. We educate and encourage them, we teach them how to walk and talk then to prioritize goals, chores and education. I believe the time has come to include self defense to that list. The term self defense in my opinion does not paint the full picture of what that practice gives its practitioner.
The benefits of self defense are endless and there is more research and statistics than any of us could read through proving it.
Confidence:
-
Self defense is important for EVERYONE. Some people have a natural curiosity to explore these types of lessons and sports, that is awesome! For those individuals, this will come very naturally. It is for the rest of us that are less comfortable, maybe even avoidant, that this is most beneficial. For some of us, adults and children alike, for men and women, boys and girls this can be intimidating. I assure you once you get started, once you dedicate yourself to the practice of “ Being comfortable, in uncomfortable situations” nothing could be further from the truth. We have worked hard to create an encouraging community. We grow together in many ways, we laugh and encourage each other, we teach and learn from one another at all levels and at every stage.
-
The confidence that comes from knowledge and awareness of self-defense means you are less likely to become a chosen victim. Attackers typically avoid targeting individuals who appear confident and capable.
-
Confidence empowers us in everyday life. It improves our friendships, helps us with job opportunities. Confidence affects our performance in sports. Overall I believe genuine confidence helps us be our best self and reach our full potential.
Physical Fitness:
-
Improved energy levels. Yes, exercise as part of a daily routine actually increases our energy.
-
Daily exercise reduces a wide variety of health issues. It seems more and more we hear people talking about the importance of exercise. Why now? Years ago movement seemed to be a bit more natural, our daily chores required more from us physically. Exercise was a part of our lifestyle. Today, technology seems to require us to be more sedentary. It is for this reason we need to intentionally plan for this part of our wellness.
-
Not only is general exercise important to our overall health, but by now we all understand the science behind how it impacts our happiness. Literally releasing hormones into our body that cause us to feel joy. Physical health has a direct correlation to our mental health.
Mental Wellness:
-
STRESS RELIEF More than ever people of all ages are experiencing stress. More than ever adults and children are feeling overwhelmed. Physical exertion is proven to clear the mind, giving us a break from solving and conquering life's obstacles. With these breaks, these blocks of time we create for ourselves we often gain clarity and fresh perspective.
-
CONNECTION Today's world often leaves many of us feeling disconnected and alone. Some things are difficult to explain and are best experienced. Jiu Jitsu is certainly one of those things. It is hard to put into words but the experience of connection between two people doing something hard together. It can feel triumphant like climbing a mountain. What is even more powerful is the feeling of connection to yourself that develops.
-
MIND & BODY getting to know yourself is the single most important thing that we can do for ourselves and the greatest gift we can give a child. Teach them the value of this, give yourself and loved ones the space and the tools to do the work. Jiu Jitsu has a unique way of highlighting our strengths and weaknesses, all while providing the skills to improve. Self defense skills of all practices cause us to engage both mind and body. Good practice and instructors will create scenarios in a safe space to practice these skills. In this practice you gain and strengthen every part of yourself.
"Lead by example"
Far more effective than
" Do as I say, not as I do"
Give your Kid the gift of Jiu Jitsu!
Make the most of this opportunity, Join your child, partner, friend or family member on this journey. The Result in the end will surprise each of you. You will strengthen yourself and each other. “I sat on the sideline for 20 years. At first in support of my husband, now a 4th degree black belt. Next I encouraged both of my children. It was not until about 2.5 yrs ago that I finally joined them. It took my then 14 yr old son to convince me. (reluctantly, I participated). I admit at first I hated it. I wanted nothing to do with the overly physical sport that included sweating and grossness and even pain sometimes. It was NOT love at first sight :) Soon I noticed I was connecting with my child in a way I have not in a long time. That motivated me to continue for several weeks ( I still was not a fan of Jiu Jitsu but I liked the impact it was having on my relationship with my son)
One day to my surprise I was looking forward to class. I began to enjoy the sport and my time on the mat. I looked forward to learning a new technique, a "trick" to try on a training partner and friend. I continue to be surprised by the positive impact this has had on my life and my relationships. Finally, not surprisingly I have found that each person I know who has made the commitment to themselves to pursue these types of practices all say the same thing, Jiu Jitsu has changed me and It has changed my life! It is so much more than I imagined.
The journey of Jiu Jitsu is remarkably personal and incredibly different for each of us. Like all things
"You get out of it, what you put into it"
We each start for different reasons, but in the end we are all working towards the same goal.
