Jiu Jitsu is a Drug For Anxiety and Depression
- Dream Martial Arts and Fitness LLC
- Aug 5
- 3 min read
Jiu Jitsu for Anxiety and Depression
Anxiety and depression are among the leading mental illnesses in the world today.
Approximately 18.1% of the population in the United States are affected
by both anxiety and depression. As a result, forty million adults in the
United States ages 18 and older have experienced a debilitating change
in their motivation, energy, and mood. While pharmaceutical companies
benefit from filling the public’s cabinets with prescriptions and aides;
most doctors and psychologists will agree that there is one form of
medication that stands above the rest: exercise.
The Benefits of Exercise
Exercise is the most powerful way to protect the brain. Blood flow to the
brain is increased during exercise; allowing more oxygen and nutrients
to be carried to the brain. Proteins are then released which keep
neurons healthy. These proteins promote the growth of new cells. On
top of that, exercise releases dopamine and endorphins which improve
your mood. Many exercise routines include cardio and weightlifting.
However, many of the world’s top athletes use a different form of
exercise. “If there were a drug that produced the same brain benefits as exercise,
everyone would be taking it,” said Saul Villeda, PhD, UCSF
Jiu Jitsu for Mental Health
Many of the world’s elite athletes practice martial arts. The most popular
and effective combat sport internationally is Jiu Jitsu. This sport utilizes
mind, body and soul. Jiu Jitsu is compared to a game of chess. Your
mind must be aware of all potential possibilities while remaining present.
Some people may compare this to meditation. Meditation in itself, is a
proclaimed remedy for anxiety and depression. In other words, Jiu Jitsu
is a form of “active” meditation. Consequently, training your mind to be
focused in the moment helps relieve the pressures of anxiety.
Anxiety Symptom: Mania
One symptom of anxiety is mania. Mania causes feelings of aggressive
hostility. Redirecting negative thoughts and actions are important to
control your mental health. Combat sports like Jiu Jitsu force you to
react with intellect and athleticism. In other words, your mind does not
have time to trigger the physical side effects of mania. You will be
forced to act with precision while under the pressure of your opponent..
These movements must be intentional and purposeful. Thus creating
critical thinking.
Brain Activity
Scientists compared the brain activity of a depressed and a non-
depressed patient using an MRI scan. The scan shows the person with
depression has much less brain activity than the person without
depression. Jiu Jitsu enforces a stronger and more resilient mindset. A
focused mind will help alleviate feelings of anxiety and depression. Like
most combat sports, Jiu Jitsu is a one-person sport. You must adapt on
your own. Adaptation and critical thinking are key ingredients to
maintaining an active brain.
Self Esteem
Adapting and overcoming is only one way Jiu Jitsu enforces mental well-
being. Like weightlifters, combat sport athletes have obstacles or
challenges they must overcome. When they overcome these
challenges, endorphins rush through the body to create positive
feelings. This is vital to developing a healthier self-esteem. Even losing
helps your mindset. Losing causes you to analyze your performance
and make critical changes. Allowing you to learn, adapt and come back
stronger.
Recognize Anxiety and Depression
In conclusion, anxiety and depression are tremendous issues in modern
day society. It is critical to find a way to combat mental-health issues.
It’s also important to understand how we can help each other overcome
anxiety and depression. While Jiu Jitsu is a one-person sport, you need
training partners and instructors to help you overcome obstacles. If you
are interested in Jiu Jitsu, find a gym near you with a suitable
environment. Above all else, always be a team player. You never know
who might be dealing with mental-health issues.
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