Wednesday 3 October 2012
Martial Arts are so much more than Bruce Lee and his killer Kung Fu moves that put an immediate end to all his enemies. Most people approach or view Martial Arts as a sport, for some others it qualifies as a form a rigorous exercise or work out. But for people who practice and teach this ancient art form, it is a way of life, a guide to disciplining your body, mind and soul, and a conduit to being a better person.
Thanks to movies and the cult following of people like Lee, the popularity of Martial Arts has surpassed continents. Now, most countries and cities have dedicated Martial Arts schools wherein children and adults are taught the art of strengthening their body and mind.
Perhaps the best part about such Martial Arts schools is that they embrace one and all, irrespective of your age and gender, and mould you to become a stronger and smarter person in day to day life. Should you also be considering joining such a Martial Arts school then think no more as the advantages it offers are numerous and lasting, greatly benefiting your child.
Self Defence
Contrary to popular opinion that Martial Arts are all about breaking bones and jumping from roofs, the first thing taught to all students in such schools is tolerance and patience. A good Martial Arts school has a dedicated set of exercises meant only to teach you the virtue of patience. The next thing taught is that the best offence is a good and intuitive self-defence. Students are taught how to predict their enemy’s moves and act, rather than react to them.
Discipline
Most reputed Martial Arts schools have a full-fledged curriculum wherein everything including the right eating habits to developing healthy habits and routines are taught to students. This is because to master Martial Arts, you need to have a fit mind and agile body before anything else. Numerous stretching, posture correction and breathing exercises are taught to children as well.
Embracing Yourself
Good Martial Arts schools are known to help children embrace their bodily flaws and concerns be it a weight issue or a crippling handicap. This is because, as your Martial Arts teacher will repeat daily, it doesn’t matter how much or how little strength you possess, what matters is how you choose to apply even the littlest strength in you.
Enrolling in a Martial Art school offers immense value to one and all, especially children, to the extent that it fundamentally alters both them and their perception of the world for the better.
Master Damien O’Flaherty
