Turn Toward Trouble (A Jiu-Jitsu Lesson)

Our only hope for overcoming our troubles is to turn toward them. One of the most valuable lessons we learn, as we practice jiu-jitsu, is that our troubles do not go away when we turn our backs on them. In fact, the more we train, the more we discover that, by turning away from our … Continue reading Turn Toward Trouble (A Jiu-Jitsu Lesson)

The Martial-Mystical Experience (Rolling Into Transcendence)

It is difficult to worry about our day-to-day problems when someone is trying to choke us unconscious or punch us in the face. Aside from simply learning how to fight or defend ourselves, there are many psychological, physical, and emotional benefits to be found in sparring based martial arts, martial arts wherein practitioners regularly pressure … Continue reading The Martial-Mystical Experience (Rolling Into Transcendence)

The Mouse And The Trap (A Jiu-Jitsu Lesson)

Do not chase your opponents into their game. The longer we practice jiu-jitsu, the more we develop our own uniquely personal technical-style, strategies, and tactics. While this is happening, however, our training partners are also working on improving and developing their own personal styles as well, their own games, so to speak. Like us, they, … Continue reading The Mouse And The Trap (A Jiu-Jitsu Lesson)

On Non-Resistance (A Jiu-Jitsu Lesson)

Long-lasting solutions begin with empathy, not animosity. If we want to make a change in our lives, we will inevitably come up against resistance. Instead of perceiving this resistance as a negative thing, we should embrace it for the lessons it offers. Resistance forces us to know ourselves, our desires, our capabilities, and to adjust … Continue reading On Non-Resistance (A Jiu-Jitsu Lesson)