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The Benefits of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for Mental Health

The search for ways to help improve mental health is far and wide. There are many forms of treatments that help strengthen mental well-being, and a widely popular outlet is physical training.

The biggest proven benefits of physical training are lowered blood pressure, increased confidence, better sleep, reduced anxiety and depression, regulated cortisol output, etc. This also includes increased mobility of your body and muscle strength.

All of these factors together work amazing for your body to heal and feel at its best, including your mental health. Jiu-Jitsu is a fantastic physical outlet! You can simultaneously learn self-defense tactics while improving your overall well-being.

Here are a few more benefits Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has on your mental health.

Endorphins

Endorphins are released by the brain and nervous system. These small neurotransmitters are what give us pain relief and a feeling of comfort. This is secreted during hard exercise. Exercising is almost a treat for your body in a productive way. Jiu-Jitsu definitely counts as a vigorous, productive exercise that is a positive way to bring out those natural feel-good endorphins that improve your overall well-being.

This can even have a long-lasting effect as continuous physical activity, like Jiu-Jitsu, works to build a defense against stress and other negative feelings. 

Self-Confidence

Attending Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes with dedication can give you a sense of identity and purpose. This can significantly improve mental health as it provides a place of safety and comfort. 

The lessons learned from Jiu-Jitsu training can help build confidence in those who have anxiety related to their safety. This is due to the defense tactics taught and the strength that ultimately comes from continuous learning. 

By training in this martial art form, participants can easily set goals and achievements based on their own personal progress. This is another self-confidence booster!

Additional Supportive Community

One of the best benefits of training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is the automatic community you are invited into. The facility you go to and the community of people who participate in this are usually tight-knit groups who are positive and supportive as everyone is learning and growing together. 

Support, encouragement, and positive surroundings are incredibly beneficial for improving mental health.

Other great benefits include:

  • Mental Clarity

  • Better Sleep

  • Stress Relief

  • Learning to Thrive Under Pressure

  • Exercising Overall Mental Toughness

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a vigorous exercise you can follow at your own pace for many benefits and overall health. If you are looking for a studio to practice and train at, contact us at Ground Control Owings Mills. We can help find the right class for you and guide you along your journey.