Positivity In a Pandemic
There is no better time than today to use martial arts to make a difference in this Covid-19 defined world. People face a slowed economy, orders to wear masks, or stay clear of strangers, friends, and loved ones. In these trying times, martial arts provide refuge and respite. The pandemic caused me a lot of stress when it began. The one thing I know is that my stress can be controlled if I work out or practice martial arts. These activities alleviate my mind from thinking about my concerns. A lot of martial artists feel this sense of relief when practicing and working out. The physical part of martial arts creates a strong defense mechanism against stress and the mental part brings personal reassurance.
Yes, You Can
Martial artists know that they cannot give up or give in when times get tough, if they want to achieve their martial art goals. When I failed breaking a board at my green belt exam after two tries many years ago, I nearly threw my hands up in the air and walked away. Suddenly, something clicked. I realized that “now or never” was upon me and that I cannot redeem myself if I give up. My heart pounded with fear that I would miss the third try. The audience’s eyes were upon me. They rooted for me in a quiet hush and related to my misery because they faced their own embarrassment and misery in their lives before. I decided to follow my martial art heart that rhythmically pounded, “Yes, you can.” I broke the board with ease on the third try because my heart was in it.
Since then, my martial art heart saved me from personal failure many times. Whether at work, raising a family, or trying to pass my final exam for my master’s degree recently, I put my heart to the test. I always revert to the green belt board break story because it defines the truth and power of mindset. The moment I conquered the board break is the same moment that I discovered how to navigate doubt and crash through barriers and obstacles in my life. I stopped allowing negative thoughts to infiltrate my dreams and desires or diminish how majestically I choose to build my life. Learning a martial art is about more than defending yourself in an altercation. Rather, you learn to defend against troubled times that appear when you least expect them.
Conclusion
Today’s pandemic situation will pass and be a memory one day. Opportunities to embrace martial art practice and each other in person will again reappear. We will see the world differently and through new eyes, but one thing will always remain. The martial art heart continues beating with fervor no matter what happens. Training teaches that there is success with effort. It may take time to overcome an obstacle or two, but no worries. The martial art heart knows all.
Are you keeping positive and active during the pandemic? Tell me what your thoughts then check out the many reviews and discussions on Martial Journal.
- Five Ways to Maximize Your Martial Art Potential - July 1, 2020
- Follow Your Martial Art Heart - June 13, 2020
- Is There a Place for Arrogance in Martial Arts? - July 11, 2018
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