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BJJ and Mental Health



Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a genuinely decompressing and stress-relieving practice. The martial art form, which connects the body, mind, and spirit, has similar benefits to meditating. BJJ practitioners are improving, healing, and adapting their minds while learning self-defense tactics. Not only is it a form of active mediation, it also helps to target physical and mental strengths and weaknesses, all while elevating one's state of peacefulness. Given this, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is an incredible way to heighten one's mental awareness.



At one point, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu student will experience "Mushin." This sensational feeling translates to "mind without mind." In other words, "Mushin" equates to being completely aware and present, or what some may call a “flow state”. During this stage, martial arts practitioners engaging in practice will learn to release emotions like fear, anger, and ego. While in combat, Jiu Jitsu practitioners do not actively think about their next move, but instead lean on their instincts and reactions they’ve drilled in their practice.



Aside from the physical benefits, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu also comes with psychological ones. Because constant movement releases endorphins and dopamine, Jiu-Jitsu will help to improve your mental health.

Consequently, a student will be more vigorous and motivated. These two elements will also help to increase one's cognitive function. With every training session, BJJ practitioners can think more clearly and build stronger focus.


Sometimes, students don't feel the positive effects on the mats, however that does not mean these sensations are not present. As time progresses, beginner and intermediate students report feeling more confident and collected during stressful situations.


Outside of class, if they are thrown into a heated moment, they can manage the conflict without needing to use the physical skills or techniques they learned from Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, instead relying on their earned sense of confidence and control. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a genuinely decompressing and stress-relieving practice. The martial art form, which connects the body, mind, and spirit, has similar benefits to meditating. BJJ practitioners are improving, healing, and adapting their minds while learning self-defense tactics. Not only is it a form of active mediation, it also helps to target physical and mental strengths and weaknesses, all while elevating one's state of peacefulness. Given this, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is an incredible way to heighten one's mental awareness.


Having a strong community also helps with confidence. For instance, one of Jiu-Jitsu's core values is the importance of community. Academies do this by fostering a supportive environment for everyone.A good academy should feel welcoming and safe for all its members and visitors. With an atmosphere that pushes respect and acceptance, students are given a space to be themselves and grow. Lastly, the contact on the mats prompts the release of neurochemicals in the brain and hormones throughout the body.


Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu ultimately takes students away from life's constant demands. In essence, it serves as an escape from our daily troubles.


The martial arts form teaches process-orientedness. In turn, a student learns to adopt a growth mindset, which helps them get through both good and bad times.


Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was first introduced to the U.S. in the 1980s by the Gracie family and popularized in the 90’s through the creation of UFC. It's since been widely established as a very sensible and highly effective discipline whose benefits extend far beyond its effectiveness as a self-defense art.


If you are interested in What Crucible Jiu Jitsu has to offer book a class below or contact us for more information.







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